Military Seamen

Military Career

General Information

Description

Seamen are responsible for the smooth operation of the majority of occurrences above deck. They are capable of performing and supervising almost any task in connection with deck maintenance, small boat operations, and navigation. They have a working knowledge of all programs performed in, or related to, the marine environment. They must establish and maintain knowledge of ropes and cables, including different uses, stresses, strains, and proper stowing. They facilitate upkeep of ships' external structures, riggings, deck equipment, and lifeboats.

Explore this career outside the military

Work Environment

Seamen work aboard all types of ships and submarines. On ships, they often work outdoors on deck while servicing shipboard equipment.

Workplace at a Glance

What you can expect to experience while on the job

  • Responsibility
  • Exposure to job hazards
  • Physical activity
  • Decision making
  • Repetitiveness
  • Level of competition
  • Time pressure

Comparable Industries

  • Transportation, Distribution & Logistics
No Information for this section

Military Outlook

Service Branches

Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.

Military Status

  • Enlisted
    • Hands-on/specialized
    • High school diploma required

Military Workforce

Seamen in the Military

5,107

No Information for this section

Salary

Average Salary

$87,231

No Information for this section

Education

Most Common Education Levels

People in this career achieve this level of education.

  • High school 52%
  • Post-secondary certificate 24%
  • Less than high school 22%
  • Some college 0%
  • Master's degree 0%
  • Doctoral degree 0%
  • Bachelor's degree 0%
  • Associate's degree 0%
  • Post baccalaureate 0%
  • Post-doctoral training 0%
  • Post-master's certificate 0%
  • First professional degree 0%

Military training

All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Job training for seamen consists of classroom instruction, on-the-job learning in various training environments, and through receiving advanced civilian/industry certifications and licenses (credentials), which may require additional education, training, or experience. Training programs vary depending on service and specialty.

Read More

Knowledge

  • Administration and Management
  • Mechanical
  • Education and Training
  • Chemistry
  • Transportation

Skills at a Glance

Skills helpful in this career

  • Verbal skills
  • Critical thinking & problem solving
  • Equipment operation & maintenance
  • Math & science skills
  • Technology design & control
  • Leadership
No Information for this section