ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Ordinary Seaman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of Louisiana

ORDINARY SEAMAN

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

The Ordinary Seaman is under general supervision of the ship's captain, performs various functions pertaining to operation and maintenance of the vessel: waterfront maintenance, field work and ...

Valaris

Ordinary Seaman

Houston, TX · On-site

Job Summary The Ordinary Seaman carries out general marine cleaning, maintenance, navigational watchkeeping duties, and other manual labor as required. Principal Duties and Responsibilities

Valaris

Ordinary Seaman

Houston, TX · On-site

Job Summary The Ordinary Seaman carries out general marine cleaning, maintenance, navigational watchkeeping duties, and other manual labor as required. Principal Duties and Responsibilities

Bowhead

Ordinary Seaman/ Diver

Panama City, FL · On-site

$122.54/hr

Overview Ordinary Seaman (TYAFB-2026-25610): Bowhead Marine Support Services seeks Ordinary Seaman at Tyndall Air Force Base, Tyndall, FL. Responsibilities The Ordinary Seaman is responsible for the ...

Bowhead

Ordinary Seaman/ Diver

Panama City, FL · On-site

$122.54/day

Overview Ordinary Seaman (TYAFB-2026-25610): Bowhead Marine Support Services seeks Ordinary Seaman at Tyndall Air Force Base, Tyndall, FL. Responsibilities The Ordinary Seaman is responsible for the ...

Bowhead

Ordinary Seaman/Captain

Panama City, FL · On-site

$511.92/day

Overview Ordinary Seaman (TYAFB-2026-25611): Bowhead Marine Support Services seeks multiple, part time, on-call, Ordinary Seaman/Captain for the operations of 120' Missile Retriever's and other small ...

AET

Ordinary Seaman (OS)

Galveston, TX · On-site

Ordinary Seaman mariner credential * TWIC * COVID-19 vaccination including booster Physical Requirements * Ability to continuously stand for long periods of time * Ability to bend, squat, climb ...

AET

Ordinary Seaman (OS)

Galveston, TX · On-site

Ordinary Seaman mariner credential * TWIC * COVID-19 vaccination including booster Physical Requirements * Ability to continuously stand for long periods of time * Ability to bend, squat, climb ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTravel JobsMaritime JobsOrdinary Seaman Jobs

Ordinary Seaman information

See salary details

$11K

$73.5K

How much do ordinary seaman jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for ordinary seaman in the United States is $72,143.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,000.00 and $72,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an ordinary seaman do?

An ordinary seaman (OS) performs duties as part of the deck crew of a merchant ship. The OS position is the lowest ranking position on the deck crew, and your responsibilities center on ship maintenance and repair, general labor, and standing lookout. You help paint the hull, clean and polish brightwork, and ensure that garbage is disposed of. When loading and unloading cargo, you handle ropes and secure items. Many of your duties are part of training to move up to being an able seaman, which comes with increased responsibilities and supervisory tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ordinary seaman?

To thrive as an Ordinary Seaman, you need basic seamanship skills, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supported by completion of the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) basic safety training. Familiarity with shipboard tools, safety equipment, and deck maintenance systems is essential. Reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are important soft skills for working effectively with the crew and responding to instructions. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure safe vessel operations, efficient maintenance, and adherence to maritime regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by ordinary seamen during their first contract at sea?

Ordinary Seamen often encounter challenges such as adapting to life at sea, coping with long periods away from home, and adjusting to a structured, hierarchical work environment. The physical demands of the job, including heavy lifting and working in all weather conditions, can also be challenging. Additionally, learning to follow strict safety protocols and effectively communicating with a diverse crew are important skills that may take time to develop. However, these challenges are valuable learning experiences that help build the foundation for career advancement in the maritime industry.

What is the difference between Ordinary Seaman vs Able Seaman?

AspectOrdinary SeamanAble Seaman
CredentialsBasic maritime training, STCW certificationAdvanced training, additional certifications, more experience
Work EnvironmentDeck crew on ships, performing general dutiesMore specialized deck duties, supervising Ordinary Seamen
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with deck operations, maintenance, lookout dutiesExecuting complex deck tasks, assisting officers, training lower ranks

In summary, an Ordinary Seaman is an entry-level deck crew member with basic training, while an Able Seaman has more experience, additional certifications, and performs more advanced duties onboard ships. The transition from Ordinary Seaman to Able Seaman involves gaining experience and completing further certifications.

How much do ordinary seamen get paid?

Ordinary seamen typically earn between $2,000 and $4,000 per month, depending on experience, vessel type, and union agreements. Their pay often increases with seniority and additional certifications, and they may receive benefits such as housing and food while onboard.

What is the job of the Ordinary Seaman?

An Ordinary Seaman is a crew member responsible for basic duties such as cleaning, maintenance, and assisting with navigation and cargo operations on a ship. They typically perform manual labor, follow safety protocols, and may need to obtain certifications like STCW to work onboard. The role provides foundational experience for advancing in maritime careers.
More about Ordinary Seaman jobs

What cities are hiring for Ordinary Seaman jobs?

Cities with the most Ordinary Seaman job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Ordinary Seaman jobs?

The most popular types of Ordinary Seaman jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Ordinary Seaman jobs?

The top employers for Ordinary Seaman jobs are:

What states have the most Ordinary Seaman jobs?

States with the most job openings for Ordinary Seaman jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Ordinary Seaman jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Ordinary Seaman jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Ordinary Seaman jobs?

For Ordinary Seaman jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Ordinary Seaman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ordinary Seaman job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,143 per year, or $34.7 per hour.

Ordinary Seaman

New London, CT • On-site

Cross Sound Ferry Services
51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Cross Sound Ferry Servicesexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Openings >> Ordinary Seaman
Ordinary Seaman
Summary
Title: Ordinary Seaman ID: 1006 Location: New London, CT Department: Vessel Crew
More about this job >
Description

Full-Time Ordinary Seaman
Cross Sound Ferry Operates 8 passenger vehicle ferries and 3 high speed passenger only ferries between New London, CT and Orient Point, NY as well as New London, CT to Block Island, RI seasonally between May-October.  Our vessels range from 100 Gross Tons to 1600 Gross Tons, carrying up to 100 vehicles and up to 600 passengers.  We offer competitive salaries, benefits, flexible scheduling and advancement opportunities.   
Responsibilities Include (not limited to):
  • Handle mooring lines
  • Perform appropriate deck watches
  • Stand helm watch
  • Maintain vessel cleanliness
  • Actively participate in ongoing drills and training
  • Direct vehicles on and off vessel
  • Assist passengers on and off vessel
  • Other duties assigned by Captain or Mate
Requirements
  • Pass pre-employment drug test
  • Must be willing to work Saturday OR Sunday each week
  • Valid Merchant Mariner Credential with minimum Ordinary Seaman rating
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identity Credential (TWIC)
Apply Now
 
Refer to a Friend

Alternatively, you can apply to this job using your profile from Indeed by clicking the button below:


Copyright 2026 Cross Sound Ferry Services. All rights reserved.
Powered by ApplicantStack Employment Application Software
Privacy Policy | Terms of Use

Apply