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For Educators: Military Resources
For Educators: Military Resources

Sailors and Marine Oilers

Median Salary
48,400
Job Outlook
+8%

Overview

What are the responsibilities of this role?

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.

Did you know this role exists in the Military?

What is the job outlook?

Overall employment of water transportation workers is projected to grow 3 percent from 2023 to 2033, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 9,700 openings for water transportation workers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Compensation

What is the typical salary range?

$26,680

10%

$48,400

Median

$64,600

90%

How does location impact how much salary?

Education

What level of education do professionals in this role have?

Education Level

  • High school

    52%

  • Post-secondary certificate

    24%

  • Less than high school

    22%

Skills and Interest

Which skill sets are the most valuable to possess?

Skills

  • Equipment Operation and Maintenance

    High

  • Verbal Skills

    Low

  • Leadership

    Mid

  • Math and Science Skills

    Mid

  • Technology Design and Control

    Mid

  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

    Mid

What knowledge should you bring to the table?

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

What challenges will you likely face in the workplace?

Workplace

  • Exposure to Job Hazards

    High

  • Responsibility

    High

  • Physical Activity

    High

  • Time Pressure

    Mid

  • Repetitiveness

    Mid

  • Decision Making

    Mid

  • Level Of Competition

    Mid

What personality traits help people thrive in this role?

Realistic

You love hands-on work and solving practical problems — like fixing things and building stuff.

Conventional

You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.

RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.

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