Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels

Education

Sailors and marine oilers typically do not need a formal educational credential to enter the occupation. Other water transportation workers complete U.S. Coast Guard approved training programs.

Employers may prefer to hire candidates who have earned a bachelor’s degree from a maritime academy. For example, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy offers a bachelor’s degree program and a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with an endorsement as a third mate or third assistant engineer. Academy graduates must serve several years as an officer in a reserve unit or on active duty in any branch of the Armed Forces.

Training

Water transportation workers may receive on-the-job training of varying duration. For example, sailors and marine oilers typically need 1 month to 1 year of training after they are hired. The size and type of ship and waterway also affect training, with large vessels on open seas likely to require the most training.

Some water transportation workers enter their occupation through an apprenticeship. The length of these programs varies but may last several years. Apprenticeship programs typically include technical instruction and paid on-the-job training aboard a vessel. Those who successfully complete an apprenticeship may be eligible to take the exam for ship engineer or third mate.

Licenses, certifications & registrations

The USCG and TSA have specific requirements for many water transportation workers. These requirements may include passing a security or drug screening, completing approved training, or passing written and physical examinations. Workers in some occupations, such as maritime pilots, also may need a license issued by their state.

For example, mariners working on ships with U.S. flags usually need a TSA Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). Mariners who work on ships traveling on the open ocean require USCG-verified training for the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) endorsement. Most mariners also must have a USCG-issued MMC. (More information on MMCs and related endorsements is available from the U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center.)

In addition, water transportation workers may need a valid passport, other licenses or credentials, and first aid or other safety certification.

Important qualities

Customer-service skills. Water transportation workers may interact with passengers and must ensure that the passengers have a pleasant experience.

Hand-eye coordination. Officers and pilots who steer ships must be able to operate controls while staying aware of their surroundings.

Hearing ability. Water transportation workers must pass a hearing test to get an MMC.

Interpersonal skills. Water transportation workers may spend months on a ship with other crewmembers. They must be able to work well as part of a team in a demanding environment.

Manual dexterity. Water transportation workers often are required to work with their hands to manipulate vessel or machine controls, attach equipment, or operate handtools.

Mechanical skills. Marine oilers and ship engineers must be able to keep machines and equipment working properly at sea.

Physical strength. Water transportation workers may be required to lift or move heavy equipment and supplies.

Visual ability. Water transportation workers must pass a vision test to get an MMC.