Description
Seamen (SN) maintain ship's compartments, decks, deck machinery, equipment, external structure, lines, and riggings; stand underway deck watches, such as: helmsman, lookout, and messenger; stand pier sentry, fire security, anchor, and other special watches in port; and man and operate small boats, booms, cranes, and winches.
Core Skills
- deck operations
- helmsman watchstanding
- lookout procedures
- line handling and mooring
- rigging operations
- small boat handling
- winch and crane operation
- shipboard maintenance
- maritime damage control
Common Certifications
- USCG Merchant Mariner Credential
- STCW Basic Training
- Able Seaman Qualification
- USCG Ordinary Seaman Qualification
- NCCCO Rigger Level I
- NCCCO Signalperson
- OSHA 10-Hour Maritime Industry
Civilian Career Paths
- TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT
- FLEET MANAGEMENT
- PRIVATE SECURITY
Training & Development
Getting Started
- STCW Basic Training
- USCG Ordinary Seaman Qualification
- OSHA 10-Hour Maritime Industry
- NCCCO Signalperson
Career Growth
- USCG Merchant Mariner Credential
- Able Seaman Qualification
- NCCCO Rigger Level I
- USCG Master or Mate License
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Data sourced from official Coast Guard publications and public military occupational references. Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.