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Shipboard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Navy ships. The selected candidate will support ESU by performing a variety of skilled trades, maintenance and technical tasks on aircraft carrier elevators, cargo handling systems and associated ...

Navy ships. The selected candidate will support ESU by performing a variety of skilled trades, maintenance and technical tasks on aircraft carrier elevators, cargo handling systems and associated ...

In addition to ship construction, our capabilities include advanced ship repair, conversion, and maintenance for both commercial and national defense assets. We encourage you to learn more about our ...

In addition to ship construction, our capabilities include advanced ship repair, conversion, and maintenance for both commercial and national defense assets. We encourage you to learn more about our ...

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Shipboard information

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$13

$30

$48

How much do shipboard jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipboard in the United States is $30.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are shipboard jobs?

Shipboard jobs refer to positions that are performed on a ship, such as cruise ships, cargo vessels, or naval ships. These roles can include a wide range of responsibilities, from navigation and engineering to hospitality and entertainment. Common shipboard job titles include deck officers, engineers, chefs, housekeeping staff, and cruise activity directors. Working shipboard often involves spending extended periods at sea, living and working with a crew, and adhering to strict safety regulations. These jobs can offer unique travel opportunities and valuable maritime experience.

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

To thrive in a shipboard position, you need strong maritime knowledge, relevant certifications such as STCW, and practical seamanship skills, often acquired through maritime academies or specialized training. Familiarity with navigation systems, safety equipment, and shipboard management software is typically required. Excellent teamwork, adaptability, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for handling the dynamic and multicultural ship environment. These skills ensure safe and efficient vessel operations, compliance with regulations, and effective collaboration among crew members.

What are some common challenges faced by shipboard crew members, and how can they be managed effectively?

Shipboard crew members often face challenges such as long periods away from home, adjusting to confined living quarters, and working in a highly structured environment with rotating shifts. Effective communication, strong teamwork, and maintaining a positive attitude are key to managing these challenges. Many shipping companies also provide support services and encourage regular rest periods to help crew members sustain their well-being and performance during voyages.

What is the difference between Shipboard vs Deckhand?

AspectShipboardDeckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Marine CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Marine Certifications
Work EnvironmentOn ships, including cargo ships, cruise ships, and tankersOn ships, primarily on deck, assisting with maintenance and cargo
Job ResponsibilitiesGeneral duties on the vessel, safety procedures, assisting crewHandling lines, cleaning, maintenance, cargo operations
Industry UsageMaritime, shipping, cruise linesMaritime, shipping, cruise lines

Both Shipboard and Deckhand roles require similar certifications and work in maritime environments. While Shipboard is a broad term encompassing all crew members on a vessel, a Deckhand is a specific position focused on deck operations and maintenance. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right roles in the maritime industry.

More about Shipboard jobs
What cities are hiring for Shipboard jobs? Cities with the most Shipboard job openings:
What states have the most Shipboard jobs? States with the most job openings for Shipboard jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Shipboard jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Shipboard jobs are:
Shipboard Damage Control Instructor

Shipboard Damage Control Instructor

Prevailance

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$40K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time, Contract
Description
This position is currently filled, but we are accepting applications for Ready Replacement Pool consideration.
Prevailance is seeking a mission-focused professional to support the Surface Warfare Schools Command (SWSC) as a Damage Control (DC) Firefighting Contractor Instructor. The instructor will deliver technical and military training, including instruction, testing, remediation, curriculum updates, administration, and safety services for formalized naval training.
Responsibilities:
  • Provide technical and military training to Department of Defense (DoD) personnel, including U.S. Navy and Allied Forces officers and enlisted personnel
  • Support curriculum updates and maintenance, testing, and remediation
  • Utilize training aids, electronic podiums, lab equipment, and other instructional tools effectively
  • Ensure adherence to safety protocols during training evolutions

Requirements
Qualifications:
  • Graduate of the Navy Instructor Training Course (CIN: A-012-0077) or equivalent (NEC 9502)
  • At least three (3) years of technical experience in Damage Control
  • At least two (2) years of experience in a Military Training Environment
  • Strong knowledge of learning principles, presentation methods, testing, remediation, and training equipment
  • Comprehensive knowledge of safety protocols, diesel inspection processes, and shipboard firefighting and damage control procedures

Specific Qualifications:
  • Former Senior (E5-E9) Surface Ship Damage Controlman or similar rating
  • Graduate of at least seven (7) of the following courses:
    • General Shipboard Firefighting Training - SCBA (A-495-0416)
    • Shipboard Firefighting Integrated Team Trainer (A-495-0018)
    • Shipboard Firefighting / Damage Control Emergency Team Member (A-495-0021)
    • Shipboard Aircraft Firefighting (J-495-0413)
    • Air Capable Ship Helicopter Firefighting (J-495-0414)
    • Advanced Shipboard Firefighting (J-495-0419)
    • Damage Control Repair Party Team Leader (K-495-0040)
    • Shipboard Damage Control Team Trainer (K-495-0045)
    • Damage Control Petty Officer (K-495-0440)
    • AFFF Foam Generation (K-495-2179)
    • Gas Free Engineering (K-495-0051)
  • Capable of performing all high-risk training evolutions, including ascending/descending ladders, navigating narrow passageways, enduring extreme heat, and lifting up to 50 lbs

Desired Qualifications:
  • Navy Damage Controlman Chief Petty Officer (CPO) or Engineering Department Leader (e.g., EN, GS, EM) preferred
  • Experience with ATG or holding the NEC 9502 Basic Instructor designation
  • Shipboard firefighting experience
  • Current Basic EMT qualification or higher

Education:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • NEC 9502 Navy Instructor or equivalent certification

Clearance:
  • Must be able to obtain a favorable background clearance

If you meet these qualifications and are ready to make an impact, we encourage you to apply today!
Prevailance, Inc. proudly supports veterans as a member of the V3 (Virginia Values Veterans) program and the Hire Vets initiative. Recognized as a Top Workplace in 2025, Prevailance fosters a supportive, mission-driven environment for its team members. We provide a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, designed to support health, wellness, and financial security. Our benefits include:
  • Medical Insurance
  • TriCare Supplemental
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life & Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Coverage
  • 401(k) Plan with Company Matching Contributions
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 11 Paid Holidays
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Computing Device Reimbursement Program

Prevailance, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, age, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, marital status or any other consideration prohibited by law or contract. Prevailance, Inc. participates in E-Verify and is VEVRAA Compliant.
Salary Description
$40,000 - $70,000