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Merchant Seaman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Interlake Steamship Company

2nd Cook

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

This position requires an endorsement as Ordinary Seaman and Food Handler (F.H.) on a Merchant Mariner Credential. Direct Supervisor - Chief Steward Primary Responsibilities : Second Cook (and Porter ...

Young Brothers

Cook / AB

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

US Coast Guard Merchant Mariner's Document with Able Bodied Seaman Special, Limited or Unlimited endorsement required; steward's department (FH) endorsement. STCW 95 endorsement, preferred. Valid ...

Young Brothers LLC

Cook / AB

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

US Coast Guard Merchant Mariner's Document with Able Bodied Seaman Special, Limited or Unlimited endorsement required; steward's department (FH) endorsement. STCW 95 endorsement, preferred. Valid ...

ssc

Tankerman - Marine

Tampa, FL · On-site

USCG Merchant Mariner Credential international and national endorsements: * * Must hold the ... Ordinary Seaman, * Steward's Department (F.H.) * Tankerman PIC limited to Dangerous Liquid (DL ...

McAllister Towing

Mate

Providence, RI · On-site

Several years as an Able-Bodied Seaman/Ordinary Seaman. Required Qualifications: * Current Advanced Firefighting, First Aid/CPR, FCC Marine Operator License * Valid Merchant Mariners Credential, 200 ...

McAllister Towing

Mate

Providence, RI · On-site

Several years as an Able-Bodied Seaman/Ordinary Seaman. Required Qualifications: * Current Advanced Firefighting, First Aid/CPR, FCC Marine Operator License * Valid Merchant Mariners Credential, 200 ...

McAllister Towing

Mate

Staten Island, NY

$708/day

Preferred Experience: * Several years as an Able-Bodied Seaman/Ordinary Seaman. Required ... Valid Merchant Marine Credential * Tractor tug experience * Must pass pre-employment drug test

McAllister Towing

Mate

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$708/day

Preferred Experience: * Several years as an Able-Bodied Seaman/Ordinary Seaman. Required ... Valid Merchant Marine Credential * Tractor tug experience * Must pass pre-employment drug test

Bowhead

Deckhand

Mobile, AL

Merchant Marine credential as an ordinary seaman; highly desired. * Experience with helicopter/vessel close proximity operations desired. Military experience preferred. Coast Guard or Navy experience ...

Bowhead

Deckhand

Mobile, AL

Merchant Marine credential as an ordinary seaman; highly desired. * Experience with helicopter/vessel close proximity operations desired. Military experience preferred. Coast Guard or Navy experience ...

Bowhead

Deckhand

Fairhope, AL

Merchant Marine credential as an ordinary seaman; highly desired. * Experience with helicopter/vessel close proximity operations desired. Military experience preferred. Coast Guard or Navy experience ...

Bowhead

Deckhand

Mobile, AL

Merchant Marine credential as an ordinary seaman; highly desired. * Experience with helicopter/vessel close proximity operations desired. Military experience preferred. Coast Guard or Navy experience ...

ssc

Engineer - Marine

Tampa, FL

$75K - $102K/yr

USCG Merchant Mariner Credential, international and national endorsements capable of foreign ... Seaman, Wiper, Steward's Department (F.H.) * Tankerman Assistant, limited to Dangerous Liquid (DL ...

Bowhead

Deckhand

Mobile, AL

Merchant Marine credential as an ordinary seaman; highly desired. * Experience with helicopter/vessel close proximity operations desired. Military experience preferred. Coast Guard or Navy experience ...

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All JobsMerchant Seaman Jobs

Merchant Seaman information

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$21K

$56.1K

$125.5K

How much do merchant seaman jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for merchant seaman in the United States is $56,087.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $62,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an example of a merchant?

A merchant in the context of a merchant seaman is a person or company that owns or operates commercial ships involved in transporting goods or passengers across waterways. Examples include shipping companies like Maersk or COSCO, which employ merchant seamen to operate cargo ships, tankers, or passenger vessels. These professionals typically hold certifications such as STCW and work onboard vessels in various roles like deck, engine, or steward departments.

What are some typical challenges faced by Merchant Seamen while working at sea?

Merchant Seamen often face challenges such as long periods away from home, adapting to different time zones, and living in close quarters with crew members from diverse backgrounds. The job can involve physically demanding work, changing weather conditions, and the need to maintain strict safety protocols at all times. Additionally, adjusting to a rotational work schedule and handling the isolation of extended voyages can be demanding. However, many find that the global travel experience, camaraderie among crew, and opportunities for career advancement make the career rewarding.

What is a Merchant Seaman job?

A Merchant Seaman is a professional mariner who works on commercial vessels that transport goods, passengers, or perform specialized maritime services. They can work on cargo ships, tankers, ferries, or offshore supply vessels. Their duties vary by position but may include navigation, engine maintenance, cargo handling, and ship upkeep. Merchant Seamen are essential to global trade and often spend weeks or months at sea. They must meet training and certification requirements set by maritime authorities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Merchant Seaman position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Merchant Seaman, you need strong seamanship skills, a basic understanding of maritime operations, and must hold required certifications such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) and a valid seafarer’s medical certificate. Familiarity with navigational equipment, safety gear, and shipboard systems is crucial for daily duties. Teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for working efficiently in confined quarters and diverse crews. These competencies ensure safety, operational effectiveness, and smooth collaboration aboard vessels on extended voyages.

What is the synonym of merchant?

A merchant seaman is a crew member working on commercial ships, and the term 'merchant' in this context refers to a trader or seller involved in maritime trade. Synonyms for 'merchant' include trader, dealer, or vendor, which describe individuals or entities engaged in buying and selling goods. These terms highlight the commercial and trading aspects of the job environment for merchant seamen.

What are the merchants?

In the context of a merchant seaman, the term 'merchants' typically refers to commercial shipping companies or cargo operators that employ seafarers to operate vessels involved in transporting goods across international waters. Merchant seamen work on cargo ships, tankers, or container ships, often requiring certifications such as STCW and adherence to safety protocols. Their role involves navigation, cargo handling, maintenance, and ensuring the safe delivery of goods.
More about Merchant Seaman jobs
What cities are hiring for Merchant Seaman jobs? Cities with the most Merchant Seaman job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Merchant Seaman jobs? The most popular types of Merchant Seaman jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Merchant Seaman jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Merchant Seaman jobs are:
Merchant Seaman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Merchant Seaman job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,087 per year, or $27 per hour.
2nd Cook

2nd Cook

Interlake Steamship Company

Cleveland, OH • On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

The ‘General Purpose Maintenance – Galley’ crewmember may be either an experienced or entry level position assisting the Chief Steward in all aspects of Galley Department operations. This can include meal preparation, cleaning/sanitation, stocking, rotation, light hotel services, and oversight of vessel guests.

The ‘General Purpose Maintenance’ crewmember may work in either the deck, engine, or galley department as appropriate. This position requires an endorsement as Ordinary Seaman and Food Handler (F.H.) on a Merchant Mariner Credential.

Direct Supervisor – Chief Steward

Primary Responsibilities:

Second Cook (and Porter as applicable):

  • Assist in the preparation of daily meals, night lunch, and salad bar
  • Manage bakery needs of the galley department
  • Assist with cleaning/sanitation of all Galley spaces
  • Assist with stocking and rotation of galley provisions and consumables
  • Oversee light hotel services (i.e. Captain quarters, guest quarters, and linen management)
  • Oversee guest/owner spaces for cleaning and stocking
  • Oversee company guests aboard vessels to ensure safety and comfort
  • Any other duties as requested by the Chief Steward
  • Respond in accordance with the duties listed on the Station Bill

Credential, License / Endorsement, and Certificate Requirements:

  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)
  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard Medical Certificate
  • Valid U.S. DOT Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Endorsement of U.S. Coast Guard as Ordinary Seaman AND Food Handler (F.H.)
  • Certificate of completion for First Aid / CPR / AED course
  • Certificate of completion for Servsafe (Food Handler)
  • Minimum 5-year company (or Union) physical noting “Fit for Duty” status