Occupation Profile for Sailors and Marine Oilers

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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.

Signficant Points

  • Merchant mariners spend extended periods at sea.
  • Entry, training, and educational requirements for many water transportation occupations are established and regulated by the U.S. Coast Guard.
  • Faster-than-average growth and good job opportunities are expected.
 

Tasks

  • Core — Handle lines to moor vessels to wharfs, to tie up vessels to other vessels, or to rig towing lines.
  • Core — Stand watch in ships' bows or bridge wings in order to look for obstructions in a ship's path or to locate navigational aids such as buoys and lighthouses.
  • Core — Lower and man lifeboats when emergencies occur.
  • Core — Load or unload materials from vessels.
  • Core — Steer ships under the direction of commanders or navigating officers, or direct helmsmen to steer, following designated courses.

Activities

  • Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
  • Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
  • Performing General Physical Activities — Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
  • Controlling Machines and Processes — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).