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Ship Deck Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Third Officer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$150 - $160/hr

Serves as a deck Watch Officer and assists the Master and senior deck officers in carrying out their responsibilities; and in their absence may assume command of the ship. May be called upon to ...

... Lighterage Control Officer (LCO). 7. As Deck Supervisor, safely and expertly operates Navy ... Monitors shipboard Lighterage offload/backload, CONUS and OCONUS. 21. Serves as (TAAT) during MPF ...

... Lighterage Control Officer (LCO). 7. As Deck Supervisor, safely and expertly operates Navy ... Monitors shipboard Lighterage offload/backload, CONUS and OCONUS. 21. Serves as (TAAT) during MPF ...

Conduct thorough technical interviews of deck officer candidates, selecting suitable crew for ... Inspections including the ship's hull, cargo spaces, deck machineries, safety equipment etc. In the ...

Conduct thorough technical interviews of deck officer candidates, selecting suitable crew for ... Inspections including the ship's hull, cargo spaces, deck machineries, safety equipment etc. In the ...

Chief Mate Unlimited

Seattle, WA · On-site

$157K - $163K/yr

... and ship repair industries. Our diverse operational fleet serves the science, research, offshore ... The Chief Mate is a senior deck officer responsible for assisting the Mater in the safe and ...

AB Unlimited

Seattle, WA · On-site

$72K - $75K/yr

Safely and successfully operate the ship tender. * Perform monthly safety inspections. * Stand watch in bridge with officers. * Handle lines, anchors and other deck machinery. Requirements: Knowledge ...

Ensures sound fiscal management and adherence to budget guidelines by deck department employees. Has a thorough knowledge of the CMPI and DHAMS. Serves as the ships' safety officer, training officer ...

Enlisted Both Overview Boatswains Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the ... officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in law and Navy policy.

Enlisted Both Overview Boatswains Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the ... officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in law and Navy policy.

Enlisted Both Overview Boatswains Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the ... officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in law and Navy policy.

Enlisted Both Overview Boatswains Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the ... officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in law and Navy policy.

Enlisted Both Overview Boatswains Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the ... officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in law and Navy policy.

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Ship Deck Officer information

See salary details

$32.5K

$62.1K

$103.5K

How much do ship deck officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for ship deck officer in the United States is $62,148.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $74,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ship deck officer?

A Ship Deck Officer is responsible for the navigation, safety, and operation of a vessel. They oversee watchkeeping duties, manage cargo operations, ensure compliance with maritime laws, and supervise crew members. Deck Officers work in a structured ranking system, typically starting as Third Officer and advancing to Chief Officer or Captain. Their role requires strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and extensive training in maritime operations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a ship deck officer?

To thrive as a Ship Deck Officer, you need strong navigational skills, maritime safety knowledge, and typically a relevant maritime degree along with valid certifications such as a Certificate of Competency (CoC). Familiarity with electronic navigation systems (ECDIS), radar, and vessel communication equipment is essential for daily operations. Leadership, decision-making, and effective communication are soft skills that distinguish top-performing deck officers. These capabilities are crucial to ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of ships, as well as the safety of crew and cargo.

What does a typical work schedule look like for a ship deck officer?

Ship Deck Officers usually work in shift patterns, commonly referred to as 'watches,' which might involve four hours on duty followed by eight hours off, depending on the vessel and company policies. This structure ensures that the ship is continuously monitored for navigation, safety, and operational needs. During their watches, officers are responsible for tasks such as overseeing navigation, conducting safety checks, and managing deck crew activities. When not on watch, they may handle administrative duties, upkeep of navigation equipment, or participate in drills and training. Working at sea means adapting to time away from home, but it also offers unique opportunities for career progression and acquiring advanced maritime skills.

How do I become a ship deck officer?

To become a ship deck officer, you typically need to complete maritime education such as a maritime academy or approved training program, obtain necessary certifications like STCW, and gain sea time experience through internships or cadet programs. Passing licensing exams administered by maritime authorities is also required to obtain the appropriate officer license. Strong navigation, communication, and leadership skills are essential for this role.

How much money does a ship deck officer make?

A ship deck officer's salary varies based on experience, vessel type, and region, but typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 per month. Senior officers or those working on large commercial ships can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and benefits. Certifications such as STCW are required for employment in this role.

How to become a ship deck officer on a ship?

To become a ship deck officer, you need to complete maritime education such as a maritime academy or approved training program, obtain necessary certifications like STCW, and gain sea time through internships or cadet programs. Afterward, you can advance by passing licensing exams to obtain officer licenses, starting as a third mate or deck officer. Continuous training and experience are essential for career progression in this role.

What does a ship deck officer do on a ship?

A ship deck officer is responsible for navigation, safety, and the overall operation of the vessel's deck. They oversee cargo handling, maintain navigation equipment, and ensure compliance with maritime regulations, often working with tools like charts and GPS systems. Certification and teamwork are essential in this role.
More about Ship Deck Officer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Ship Deck Officer jobs?

The most popular types of Ship Deck Officer jobs are:

What states have the most Ship Deck Officer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Ship Deck Officer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Ship Deck Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,148 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Deck Officer Instructor

Cut Off, LA • On-site


Edison Chouest Offshore
Water Transportation • 1 - 5K employees

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

The ECO Training Center is looking for a qualified Deck Officer Instructor to join our team.
Qualifications
Ship Handling Experience: To be considered for this role, applicants must have at least two years experience in one of the following capacities:
  • Master, Chief Mate, First Class Pilot and/or Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (OICNW) on vessels of at least 1,600 GRT / 3,000 GT, or
  • Commanding Officer or Executive Officer on military vessels

Additional Desired Skills
  • Celestial Navigation experience as OICNW on vessels of at least 200 GRT / 500 GT, or equivalent military experience in navigation (rating E-6 or higher)
  • Dynamic Positioning (DP) experience

Job Details & Responsibilities
  • Schedule: Full-time, 5/2 workday schedule. Occasional weekends and travel may be required
  • Duties: Participate in classroom lectures and hands-on training sessions (including pool, fire field, and other practicals as needed)


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