Stand watch to look for obstructions in path of vessel, measure water depth, turn wheel on bridge, or use emergency equipment as directed by captain, mate, or pilot. Break out, rig, overhaul, and store cargo-handling gear, stationary rigging, and running gear. Perform a variety of maintenance tasks to preserve the painted surface of the ship and to maintain line and ship equipment. Must hold government-issued certification and tankerman certification when working aboard liquid-carrying vessels. Includes able seamen and ordinary seamen.
SOC: 53-5011.00
Common Job Titles
Able Bodied Seaman (AB Seaman)
Able Seaman
Deck Hand
Deckhand
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeEvaluate vessel safety compliance and equipment readiness following maritime regulatory requirements and government-issued certification standards.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate cargo-handling gear, winches, and deck machinery during loading and unloading operations under supervision of ship officers.
Proficient
KnowledgeIdentify navigational hazards and obstructions in vessel path while standing watch on bridge or deck, measuring water depth and monitoring surroundings.
Proficient
Hands-onHandle mooring lines, anchor chains, and rigging equipment during docking and anchoring operations in various weather conditions.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess emergency situations and equipment failures responding independently with firefighting systems, lifesaving equipment, and emergency generators.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform mechanical equipment repairs and maintenance on deck systems using hand tools, welders, and hydraulic equipment to preserve vessel operations.
Developing
Hands-onExecute liquid cargo transfer operations using pumps and transfer hoses while maintaining tankerman certification on liquid-carrying vessels.
Developing
MindsetRespect chain of command protocols and maritime safety procedures when receiving and carrying out directives from captain, mate, or pilot.
Developing
KnowledgeApply public safety and security knowledge to vessel operations monitoring processes, documenting logbook entries, and maintaining situational awareness.
Developing
Hands-onPerform preservation tasks including chipping, painting, and surface preparation to maintain vessel painted surfaces and prevent corrosion on deck and superstructure.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Sailors and Marine Oilers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
31,360
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $33,350. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,450. 50th percentile: U.S. $49,610. 75th percentile: U.S. $65,370. 90th percentile: U.S. $81,890. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$33,350
10% of workers earn the following or more
$81,890
Workers on average earn
$55,320
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Public Safety and Security3.2/5
Transportation3.1/5
Mechanical3.0/5
Education and Training3.0/5
Administration and Management2.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
