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Tankerman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bunker Tankerman

Harahan, LA · On-site

$23 - $26.75/hr

Bunker Tankerman DEPARTMENT: Vessel FLSA STATUS: Exempt SUPERVISION: Reports to: Captain, Relief Captain and Pilot SUMMARY DESCRIPTION: Responsible for the safe, efficient, reliable, and ...

Tankerman

Bayonne, NJ

$65K/yr

Monitor product level in tanks, operate diesel engines, operate cargo pumps, operate tank/pipeline valves, operate manual and hydraulic booms. * Communicate with foreign crews and oil facility ...

Tankerman

Bayonne, NJ · On-site

$65K/yr

Monitor product level in tanks, operate diesel engines, operate cargo pumps, operate tank/pipeline valves, operate manual and hydraulic booms. * Communicate with foreign crews and oil facility ...

Tankerman DEPARTMENT: Vessel FLSASTATUS: Exempt SUPERVISION: Reportsto: Captain, Relief Captain and Pilot Supervises: Thisposition has no supervisory responsibilities. SUMMARYDESCRIPTION: Responsible ...

Tankerman (PIC) The primary function for all qualified candidates is the ability to prepare assigned barges for transit to and from facilities as well as the ability to complete loading and discharge ...

Tankerman (PIC) The primary function for all qualified candidates is the ability to prepare assigned barges for transit to and from facilities as well as the ability to complete loading and discharge ...

AB Tankerman

Chesapeake City, MD · On-site

$1K - $1K/wk

The AB/Tankerman is directly responsible and accountable to the vessel Barge Captain & DMT Barge Manager for the proper safe cargo operation and maintenance of all mechanical equipment on the ...

AB Tankerman

$1K - $1K/wk

The AB/Tankerman is directly responsible and accountable to the vessel Barge Captain & DMT Barge Manager for the proper safe cargo operation and maintenance of all mechanical equipment on the ...

Tankerman (PIC), Marine POSITION SUMMARY: The Tankerman (PIC) is a certified maritime professional responsible for the safe, compliant, and efficient transfer of liquid cargo-such as oil, fuel, and ...

Tankerman (PIC), Marine POSITION SUMMARY: The Tankerman (PIC) is a certified maritime professional responsible for the safe, compliant, and efficient transfer of liquid cargo-such as oil, fuel, and ...

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Tankerman information

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How much do tankerman jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for tankerman in the United States is $26.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do tankermans get paid?

Tankermen typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. Salaries can increase with additional skills such as cargo handling and safety training, and often include benefits like overtime pay and per diem for offshore work.

What are typical work schedules and living conditions like for a Tankerman on inland or coastal vessels?

Tankermen often work in rotating shifts that can range from several days to weeks on board, followed by similar periods off. Living conditions on vessels are typically communal, with shared sleeping quarters and limited personal space, so adaptability and strong communication skills are important. The work can be physically demanding and requires adherence to strict safety and environmental protocols, but it also offers a structured routine and opportunities for advancement into supervisory or training roles. Teamwork is essential, as Tankermen collaborate closely with crew members and shore-based personnel during cargo operations.

What Does a Tankerman Do?

As a tankerman, your duties involve overseeing the transfer and transport of liquid cargo on a barge, ship, or specialized tankboat. The primary responsibilities of a tankerman (variously referred to as an able-bodied tankerman or AB tankerman) are to ensure the safety of crew during loading and transport of the liquid freight. You may work with hazardous materials such as gases and other potentially explosive or toxic substances. You are responsible for inspecting and maintaining liquid transfer equipment onboard and onshore.

What are Tankermen?

Tankermen are specialized maritime professionals responsible for the safe transfer of liquid cargo—such as oil, chemicals, or hazardous materials—on tank vessels like barges and ships. Their duties include operating pumps, supervising loading and unloading processes, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and maintaining equipment. Tankermen must be highly trained and typically require certification, as their work is critical to preventing spills and accidents during cargo operations.

What is the difference between Tankerman vs Deckhand?

AspectTankermanDeckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, Tankerman CertificationSTCW Basic Safety Training, Basic Deckhand Certification
Work EnvironmentTank barges, tankers, chemical shipsGeneral cargo ships, tankers, offshore vessels
Job ResponsibilitiesHandling, transferring, and securing liquid cargoesGeneral deck duties, cargo handling, maintenance

Tankermen specialize in handling liquid cargoes and require specific certifications related to tank operations. Deckhands perform broader deck duties across various vessel types. While both roles work in maritime environments, Tankermen focus on cargo transfer safety and procedures, making their skills more specialized compared to Deckhands.

What is the job of a tankerman?

A tankerman is responsible for loading, unloading, and transferring liquid cargo, such as petroleum or chemicals, on tank ships or barges. The role requires knowledge of safety procedures, proper handling of hazardous materials, and often involves certifications like STCW or Tankerman licenses. They work in marine environments and may operate specialized equipment to ensure safe cargo transfer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tankerman, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tankerman, you need specialized knowledge in liquid cargo handling, safety protocols, and marine regulations, generally supported by a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a Tankerman endorsement. Familiarity with cargo transfer systems, pumps, hoses, and relevant safety equipment is essential, along with compliance training such as HAZMAT and OSHA standards. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for safe, efficient cargo operations and to prevent environmental incidents or workplace accidents.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Tankermen, who handle liquid cargo on ships, can earn around $10,000 or more per month with experience and certifications such as STCW. High-paying roles in sales, real estate, or skilled trades like commercial diving or offshore drilling also offer similar earnings without requiring a college degree, often relying on skills, licenses, and experience. These jobs typically involve physical work, specialized training, or certifications rather than formal education.

Is it hard to become a tankerman?

Becoming a tankerman requires completing specific training, obtaining a Merchant Mariner Credential with a Tankerman endorsement, and gaining experience in handling flammable liquids. The process involves safety courses, background checks, and sometimes physical exams, making it moderately challenging but achievable with proper preparation.
What cities are hiring for Tankerman jobs? Cities with the most Tankerman job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tankerman jobs? The most popular types of Tankerman jobs are:
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Bunker Tankerman

Bunker Tankerman

Blessey Marine

Harahan, LA • On-site

$23 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

JOB TITLE: Bunker Tankerman

DEPARTMENT: Vessel

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

SUPERVISION:

Reports to: Captain, Relief Captain and Pilot


SUMMARY DESCRIPTION:

Responsible for the safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant operation of assigned area by performing the following duties:

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

The primary function of the Bunker Tankerman is to prepare the barges that are assigned to his boat for safe and complete loading and discharging of oil, refined/petrochemical barges and bunkering barges. Other key job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Ensure that any and all federal and state required documents that must accompany the barges are on board and in proper order.
  • Communicate with dock personnel/crewmembers of the receiving ship and ensure that each person participating in the transfer of the product understands what the product is and how it should be transferred and protected.
  • Participate in the maintenance of the boat/barges and help with the training of newly hired employees aspiring to become a Tankerman.
  • Handle lines and rigging during tow building, locking, and docking activities.
  • Must be able to work in a rotation watch schedule, involving 6 hours on and 6 hours off, and be able to occasionally work additional hours not to exceed 15 hours in any 24-hour period or more than 42 hours in a 72-hour period, except in an emergency or drill.
  • Must be able to work on the boat with a schedule based on a ratio of 2 to 1 (i.e. 20 days on, 10 days off or 28 days on, 14 days off).
  • Must be able to wear a negative or positive respirator, PVC foul weather gear, rubber gloves and boots to protect himself from harmful cargo contact.
  • Must be able to wear a 5-minute escape pack, or a negative pressure respirator, or a supplied airline respirator.
  • Must be able to drive to and from hub cities.
  • Must be able to perform all duties necessary to navigate locks.
  • Must be able to adhere to all company policies, United States Coast Guard and environmental regulations.
  • Must be able to interpret the markings on a tape measure, including inches, fractions of an inch (like 1/8, 1/16, 1/32), and potentially even millimeters or centimeters or any other measurements used while gauging a barge.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and License Requirements

  • Have a high school diploma or GED
  • Possess a valid, current Merchant Mariners Credential with a Tank Barge PIC Endorsement (Tankerman) for Dangerous Liquid Cargoes and under (46 CFR 12.20 et seq.) and a current and valid driver's license. The Tankerman endorsement applies to vessel's Bunker Tankerman exclusively engaged in petroleum or chemical transportation.
  • Possess a valid TWIC (Transportation Worker's Identification Credential)
  • Be able to pass certification requirements of 46 CFR Part 197 Subpart C - Benzene. This applies to vessel Tankerman exclusively engaged in petroleum and/ or chemical transportation.

Learning and Training Requirements

  • Assist in training new personnel
  • Comprehend essential information related to:
  • Spill containment and cleanup
  • SDS sheets and emergency action information
  • Video training information addressing safety
  • Safety meetings/drills
  • Benzene and H2S training

Safety and Rescue Requirements

  • Ensure safe working conditions and orderliness of the vessel.
  • Maintain safe, sanitary living and working conditions.
  • Follow all company safety rules and environmental regulations.
  • Wear safety equipment as required, including: gloves, steel toes boots, goggles, rubber boots, slicker suits, respirator, five (5) minute escape pack or negative pressure respirator or supplied airline respirator.
  • Assist in safety and rescue operations in emergency situations.
  • Assist in emergency firefighting, use firefighting equipment and spill containment equipment.
  • Enter and exit hatches/ doorways quickly in case of emergencies.
  • Physically pull or assist in pulling a 200-300lb man from the water.

Minimum Job Qualifications:

  • Tolerate long hours during transfers.
  • Communicate with co-workers, Captains, Pilots, Wheelman, Dispatchers, Port Engineers, Coast Guard Inspectors, and others.
  • Remain calm during challenging situations.
  • Possess a valid driver's license for the operation of any of the company's vehicles.
  • Make good decisions.
  • Be dependable, conscientious, and show initiative
  • Pay attention to detail.
  • Be willing to adhere to orders, rules, and regulations.
  • Work as a team player - i.e., work with others and understand customer/ supplier wants and needs.
  • Be stable under pressure and withstand the stress associated with the job, including discomfort, unpredictable weather, and potentially hazardous situations.
  • Work aboard the vessel for prolonged periods according to work schedule for the vessel, for example: 28 days on and 14 days off or 20 on and 10 off.
  • Willing to work, as operations require, including days.
  • Live in close quarters for long periods of time and is able to work away from home for long periods of time.
  • Be drug and alcohol free while on company property during course and scope of company business.
  • Be physically fit to perform all essential physical demands of this job safely.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

To see all of the physical requirements, please visit www.blessey.com/careeers.


Blessey Marine Services, Inc. is an EOE and Drug Free Workplace. 

Employment Type: FULL_TIME