Sailors and Marine Oilers

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.

How to read this profile

BLS projects U.S. employment for Sailors and Marine Oilers to increase by 3.2% between 2024 and 2034, from 33,000 to 34,100 jobs. Its estimate of 3,600 annual openings includes replacement needs, so it does not represent current vacancies, contract postings, or freelance demand. The wage ($51,520), education (No formal educational credential), and related experience (None) figures on this profile describe typical U.S. employees. O*NET skills describe the occupation; they do not assess an individual worker's proficiency.

Base employment (2024)

33,000

Projected employment (2034)

34,100

Projected change (2024–2034)

3%

Annual openings (projected average)

3,600

Pay & Preparation
Loading wage data…
Loading wage data…

$51,520

No formal educational credential

None

Moderate-term on-the-job training

Essential Skills

Operations Monitoring (3.75/5) • Operation and Control (3.62/5) • Monitoring (3.5/5) • Troubleshooting (3.12/5) • Repairing (3.12/5) • Equipment Maintenance (3.12/5)

O*NET describes occupational requirements; these ratings do not measure current job-posting frequency or an individual worker’s proficiency.

BLS projections are long-term estimates; annual openings include growth and replacement needs and are not current vacancies.

Loading labor-market data…
Loading labor-market data…
Loading labor-market data…

Market data tells you what is happening.
SmartBid shows you where you fit.

Evaluate opportunities using demand, competition, client quality, and your experience—then focus your effort where you have the strongest chance to win.

Find my best opportunities