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Vessel Security Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Edison Chouest Offshore

Mate (Crew Boat)

LA · On-site

Vessel Security officer HSE Responsibilities * Document and notify supervisor immediately of any accidents/ illnesses / vessel incidents/ near misses/ etc. * Participate and supervise the company ...

Signal Security

Security Officer

Baltimore, MD

$18 - $20/hr

Maintain professional presence on dock and vessel Position Summary: A Signal Dedicated Officer will conduct static security services for courtyards, offices, pools, and other high value areas to ...

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Trip Pilot

Cairo, IL · On-site

Carry out all duties assigned under the Vessel Security Plan as the designated vessel security officer. * Ensure that each crew member knows the cargo of each barge in tow and has an understanding of ...

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Vessel Security Officer information

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How much do vessel security officer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for vessel security officer in the United States is $17.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vessel security officer?

Vessel Security Officers (VSOs) are maritime professionals responsible for ensuring the security of ships and their crew, cargo, and passengers. They implement and maintain security plans in accordance with international regulations, such as the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. VSOs conduct security assessments, supervise security measures, train crew members on security protocols, and respond to security incidents or threats on board. Their role is crucial in preventing unauthorized access, terrorism, piracy, and other security risks at sea.

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

To thrive as a Vessel Security Officer, you need a solid understanding of maritime security protocols, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by completion of the STCW Vessel Security Officer (VSO) certification. Familiarity with security systems, surveillance equipment, and incident reporting tools is crucial. Strong observational skills, integrity, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These capabilities ensure vessel safety, regulatory adherence, and effective response to security threats at sea.

What are some common challenges vessel security officers face when coordinating with international port authorities?

Vessel Security Officers often encounter challenges related to varying security regulations and communication protocols when working with international port authorities. Ensuring compliance with each port's specific security requirements, while maintaining clear and timely communication, can be complex—especially when language barriers or differing operational standards are present. Being proactive in understanding international regulations and building strong relationships with local officials are crucial steps in overcoming these challenges. Effective collaboration ensures that vessel security is maintained without causing delays or operational disruptions.

What is the difference between Vessel Security Officer vs Marine Security Guard?

AspectVessel Security OfficerMarine Security Guard
CertificationsSTCW Security Training, Vessel Security Officer CertificationBasic Security Training, Diplomatic Security Certification
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, ports, maritime facilitiesEmbassies, diplomatic missions, port facilities
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, maritime industryU.S. Department of State, diplomatic security
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The Vessel Security Officer primarily works onboard ships or maritime facilities, focusing on vessel security protocols, while Marine Security Guards serve at diplomatic missions and embassies, providing security for personnel and property. Both roles require security certifications but differ in work environment and employer focus.

More about Vessel Security Officer jobs

What states have the most Vessel Security Officer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Vessel Security Officer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Vessel Security Officer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Vessel Security Officer jobs are:

Vessel Security Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vessel Security Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,979 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Mate (Crew Boat)

Edison Chouest Offshore

LA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Edison Chouest Offshore rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Edison Chouest Offshore is looking to hire a Mate for the Crewboats.
In addition to the below responsibilities, applicants should hold:
  • A license of 100 GRT or higher
  • DP Advanced or higher

Responsibilities
  • Supervise and coordinate the activities of the crew for the efficient operation of the vessel with due regard to giving adequate rest periods, by careful planning and personal attention. Maintain the ship in a clean and efficient condition
  • Performs assigned task including bridge watch
  • Report any shortcomings, inaccuracies or conflicts in any portion of the MS to Master

Marine Functions
  • Be acquainted with handling characteristics of the vessel, cargo, capacity, equipment, speed, fuel consumption, ballast arrangement, safety apparatus, personnel
  • Remain fully informed and adhere to all relevant laws, regulations, and directives affecting the operation of the vessel
  • Ensures paperwork requirements are met
  • Identify and respond to potentially hazardous conditions
  • Understands procedures and be able to receive and pump all fluids and cargo
  • Adhere to and comply with company policies, U.S. Coast Guard, and environmental regulations
  • Works a rotation involving 12 hours in a 24 hour period with occasional hours not to exceed 14 consecutive hours
  • Inspects, maintains, and test safety and lifesaving equipment and systems
  • Inspects and test the internal communications system and the general alarm systems
  • Stands watch as a lookout for any safety concern of the vessel or crew. The lookout maintains a continuous watch of the surrounding area to report any kind of hazards that can be an obstacle in the navigation and cause harm to the ship or crew. The Lookout must give uninterrupted attention at all times to the ship's navigation in order to inform the OICNW of any hazards. The Lookout must be competent in using the vessel's General Alarm should the OICNW directs activating the General Alarm.
  • Overhauls lifeboats and lifeboat gear and lowers or raises lifeboats with winch or falls
  • May be concerned with only one phase of duties, as maintenance of ship's gear and decks or watch duties
  • Participates in safety and rescue drills for emergency situations
  • Provides and/or assist with training
  • Performs any duty that may be required as part of a training
  • Holds a valid Merchant Mariner Credential

Emergency Response Functions
Safety Sensitive Duties
Include but are not limited to; directing and mustering passengers in emergencies, passing out lifejackets, controlling and operating lifesaving equipment, controlling and operating firefighting equipment
Safety Sensitive Position
  • Is any position aboard a vessel, that requires the person filling that position to perform one or more safety-sensitive duties on either a routine or emergency-only basis. Any person filling a safety-sensitive position is subject to U.S Coast Guard drug and alcohol testing. All crew members are considered to be filling safety-sensitive positions as well.
  • Ensures first aid is provided to victims
  • Launches lifeboat/life rafts
  • Assumes command of the vessel if the Master is incapacitated
  • Firefighting and damage control
  • Responsible for securing water-tight or gas-tight integrity of the vessel
  • Assist on deck for man overboard crisis

Security Functions
  • Vessel Security Officer (As designated by the Master)
  • Vessel Security officer

HSE Responsibilities
  • Document and notify supervisor immediately of any accidents/ illnesses / vessel incidents/ near misses/ etc.
  • Participate and supervise the company's safety programs (i.e. Safety Observations, Toolbox Talks, Permit to Work, Near Miss, Risk Assessments, etc.)
  • Utilize "Stop Work Authority" if any personal safety, environmental risk, property damage or company reputation are at risk
  • Responsible for ensuring the maintenance and use of all necessary PPE
  • Performs all duties while wearing protective equipment to include foul weather gear, PFD, gloves, boots, eye protection, hearing protection, etc.
  • Responsible for ensuring and supervising the elimination of at-risk behaviors by reducing unsafe conditions and unsafe acts on and around the worksite

Supervisory Functions
  • Remain alert at all times for potential hazards
  • Responsible for imparting knowledge about the specific features, characteristics, and procedures of the vessel operations to crew members and the orientation of all new personnel aboard the vessel
  • Provide on-the-job training
  • Responsible for ongoing safety programs aboard the vessel, emergency drills and emphasizing the use of PPE
  • Ensures that he/she is capable of navigating through and communicating the requirements and contents of the MS to company representatives, regulatory personnel and vessel crew-members
  • Perform any other additional duties that may be required or assigned
  • Assign work to himself/herself and deckhands, taking into account the weather, schedule, crew size, experience, and supplies
  • Instruct and assist in maintenance and repair
  • Train and assign personnel to sea watches and in-port security watches
  • Supports ongoing safety program by training deck personnel in PPE, common sense and alertness while on assignments
  • Recommends personnel for promotion and increase in pay
  • Ensures morale and discipline
  • Keeps an inventory of amounts and expirations on lifesaving, firefighting and emergency equipment
  • Responsible for the safe and proper stowage and securing of the deck cargo and ensuring all deck cargo brought aboard agrees with the provided manifest

Work Environment
  • Work in locations not accessible to definitive medical care

Physical Demands
  • Required to be able to read and write in English, calculate, have estimation skills, possess good verbal presentation, and be able to communicate effectively
  • Required to be able to tolerate repetitive and prolonged postures involving standing, sitting, twisting, squatting, kneeling, stooping, bending, pushing, pulling, stretching, reaching and reaching to full range from above head to the floor
  • Required to be able to utilize good dexterity and frequently use one or two hands throughout the work period
  • Required good balance/coordination when walking over uneven and/or slippery surfaces
  • Required to have sufficient cardio-respiratory fitness to perform medium-heavy physical labor involving the ability to sit and/or stand for extended time frames, walk for prolonged periods, handle various tools, climb ladders, and climb stairwells
  • Subject to adverse weather conditions including rough seas, cold, wet, elevated temperatures, and humid conditions
  • Required to be able to lift at least 50 pounds
  • Required to demonstrate physical demand requirements during initial pre-employment physical and any future physicals while employed
  • Able to repeatedly walk the length of the vessel

Other Duties:
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
The Edison Chouest Offshore Family of Companies is committed to ensuring all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any characteristic protected by law with regard to any employment practices. We are dedicated to ensuring all employees are treated with the utmost level of respect as we believe this is the strongest foundation to build upon to foster an environment where employees feel comfortable handling their assignments, sharing their ideas, and pointing out opportunities for improvement.

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