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Ordinary 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 ...

Dutra Group

Credentialed Shipboard Welder

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$505.77/day

Ordinary Seaman Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) Issued by the US Coast Guard * Current US Coast Guard medical certificate * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) EQUAL OPPORTUNITY ...

ssc

Tankerman - Marine

Tampa, FL

Ordinary Seaman, * Steward's Department (F.H.) * Tankerman PIC limited to Dangerous Liquid (DL) - Experience with Caustic Soda preferred * Must hold a valid TWIC card and a U.S. Passport Education ...

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 ...

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 ...

McAllister Towing

Mate

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

Several years as an Able-Bodied Seaman/Ordinary Seaman. Required Qualifications: * Mate 1600 Gross Tons Towing/Oceans * Mate or Master of Towing * Current GMDSS, ARPA, Advanced Firefighting, First ...

McAllister Towing

Mate

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

Several years as an Able-Bodied Seaman/Ordinary Seaman. Required Qualifications: * Mate 1600 Gross Tons Towing/Oceans * Mate or Master of Towing * Current GMDSS, ARPA, Advanced Firefighting, First ...

Savage

Tankerman - Marine

Tampa, FL · On-site

Ordinary Seaman, * Steward's Department (F.H.) * Tankerman PIC limited to Dangerous Liquid (DL) - Experience with Caustic Soda preferred * Must hold a valid TWIC card and a U.S. Passport Education ...

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 ...

McAllister Towing

Mate

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$708/day

Several years as an Able-Bodied Seaman/Ordinary Seaman. Required Qualifications: * Valid Mate 200 Gross Ton License * Mate or Master of Towing * Current GMDSS, ARPA, Advanced Firefighting, First Aid ...

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Ordinary Seaman information

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$11K

$73.5K

How much do ordinary seaman jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 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 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. They often work on ships for several months at a time, with additional pay for overtime and hazardous conditions.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In the maritime industry, an Ordinary Seaman can earn high daily wages, especially with extensive experience or in specialized environments like offshore drilling or large cargo ships. Such roles often require certifications, physical fitness, and the ability to work long shifts at sea, which can lead to high daily pay rates. However, earning $2000 a day is uncommon and typically associated with highly skilled or senior positions in specialized fields.

How to get a job as an Ordinary Seaman?

To become an Ordinary Seaman, candidates typically need to complete basic safety training such as STCW certification, gain maritime experience, and pass physical and background checks. Applying through shipping companies, crew agencies, or maritime unions is common, and some positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Ordinary Seaman, and why are they important?

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 is an Ordinary Seaman's job?

An Ordinary Seaman is a entry-level deck crew member responsible for maintaining the ship's exterior, handling cargo, and assisting with navigation and safety procedures. They perform tasks such as cleaning, painting, and operating deck equipment, often requiring safety training and certification. The role provides foundational experience for advancing in maritime careers.

What are the duties of an Ordinary Seaman?

An Ordinary Seaman (OS) is an entry-level position in the deck department on a ship. Their main duties include cleaning and maintaining the vessel, assisting with cargo operations, handling mooring lines, and supporting the ship's deck officers and Able Seamen. They may also stand lookout and help with watchkeeping as directed by senior crew members. This position provides valuable experience for those looking to advance to higher maritime roles.

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.

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Ordinary Seaman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ordinary Seaman job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, and 99% Full Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,143 per year, or $34.7 per hour.
2nd Cook

2nd Cook

Interlake Steamship Company

Cleveland, OH • On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 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