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Sailor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

In the Navy, we want to see every Sailor grow into the best version of themselves, and that means providing the resources they need to help them advance their careers. Personnel Specialists help ...

In the Navy, we want to see every Sailor grow into the best version of themselves, and that means providing the resources they need to help them advance their careers. Personnel Specialists help ...

High school graduate or equivalent * 17 years of age or older WORK ENVIRONMENT As an Enlisted Sailor working in law enforcement, you will have the chance to work in a number of environments. Though ...

In the Navy, we want to see every Sailor grow into the best version of themselves, and that means providing the resources they need to help them advance their careers. Personnel Specialists help ...

In the Navy, we want to see every Sailor grow into the best version of themselves, and that means providing the resources they need to help them advance their careers. Personnel Specialists help ...

High school graduate or equivalent * 17 years of age or older WORK ENVIRONMENT As an Enlisted Sailor working in law enforcement, you will have the chance to work in a number of environments. Though ...

In the Navy, we want to see every Sailor grow into the best version of themselves, and that means providing the resources they need to help them advance their careers. Personnel Specialists help ...

High school graduate or equivalent * 17 years of age or older WORK ENVIRONMENT As an Enlisted Sailor working in law enforcement, you will have the chance to work in a number of environments. Though ...

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Sailor information

What is a sailor?

A Sailor is a maritime professional responsible for operating and maintaining a vessel while at sea. Their duties include navigation support, ship maintenance, cargo handling, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. Sailors work on various types of vessels, including cargo ships, passenger ships, and military vessels. They must be physically fit, adaptable, and skilled in seamanship to handle the challenges of life at sea.

Is being a sailor a career?

Yes, being a sailor can be a long-term career involving navigation, maintenance, and safety responsibilities on ships or boats. It often requires certifications such as STCW and physical fitness, with employment opportunities in commercial shipping, fishing, or the navy.

How do you get a job as a sailor?

To become a sailor, you typically need to complete relevant maritime training or obtain a merchant mariner credential, which involves passing physical exams and background checks. Gaining experience through entry-level positions or apprenticeships and obtaining certifications such as STCW can improve employment prospects in the maritime industry.

What are the typical work schedules and living conditions like for sailors aboard ships?

Sailors often work in rotating shifts to ensure the vessel is staffed around the clock, which can mean working nights, weekends, and holidays depending on the voyage schedule. Onboard living conditions are usually communal, with shared sleeping quarters and facilities, and meals provided by the ship's galley. The work environment can be physically demanding and at times isolated, but it also fosters a strong sense of camaraderie among crew members. Those interested in this role should be comfortable with extended periods away from home and adaptable to life at sea, as voyages can range from days to several months depending on the type of vessel and route.

Do sailors make good money?

Sailors can earn varying salaries depending on their experience, rank, and the type of vessel they work on. Entry-level positions may start around $2,000 to $3,000 per month, while experienced officers can earn over $10,000 monthly. Additional benefits often include room, board, and travel opportunities, but pay scales differ across maritime sectors and certifications held.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sailor?

To thrive as a Sailor, you need strong seamanship, physical fitness, and a solid understanding of navigation and vessel operations, often supported by a high school diploma and Basic Safety Training certification (such as STCW). Familiarity with maritime communication systems, safety equipment, and deck machinery is typically required. Teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are vital soft skills for working in close quarters and responding to emergencies at sea. These abilities ensure safe vessel operation, efficient teamwork, and successful adaptation to the dynamic and sometimes challenging maritime environment.

What are popular job titles related to Sailor jobs in Virginia? For Sailor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Sailor jobs in VA? For Sailor jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Sailor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Human Resources & Hospitality Specialist

U.S. Navy

Lynchburg, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 379 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

ABOUT

On a Navy ship, quality of life is vital to keeping Sailor morale high. These are the roles that focus on taking care of fellow Sailors, from providing for their needs to supporting their personal growth and achievement.

HUMAN RESOURCES AND HOSPITALITY JOBS IN THE NAVY

PERSONNEL SPECIALIST

We want to see every Sailor grow into the best version of themselves, and that means providing the resources they need to help them advance their careers. If you desire a future career in Human Resources, starting as a Personnel Specialist is guaranteed to open doors for you as you open doors for others.

RETAIL SERVICES SPECIALIST

As a Retail Services Specialist, you’ll learn very quickly just how important the comforts of home are for keeping ship morale high. Whether you’re playing barista, delivering fresh laundry, or giving a trim in the barber shop, you’ll be one of the most popular people on board.

CULINARY SPECIALIST

The galley is the heart of every ship. Whether you’re serving up a spaghetti dinner on a submarine, preparing a gourmet meal for foreign dignitaries on a carrier, or even cooking for the White House, your work will always be essential to keeping morale at its best.

YEOMAN

You are the Navy’s front office, handling all matters clerical and administrative. Whether you’re maintaining court records and correspondence for a shipboard legal team, compiling reports for a Commanding Officers, or filing the paperwork for fellow Sailors’ promotions, your skills are always guaranteed to be in demand.

PAY AND BENEFITS

From the day you start, you’ll receive:

  • Competitive salary
  • Potential to earn a bonus upon enlistment
  • Free health insurance
  • Free housing
  • A retirement plan
  • Paid training
  • College credit

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

  • Undergraduate degree opportunities
    • Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance
    • Post-9/11 GI Bill, up to 100% tuition
  • Professional credentials and certifications
  • College credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

  • U.S. citizen or equivalent
  • High school graduate or equivalent
  • 17 years of age or older

WORK ENVIRONMENT

You may work from one of many offices located at more than 40 major Naval bases across the country, on ships at sea, or at shore-based installations around the world.

PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Sailors in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes


What United States Navy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About US Navy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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