About Merchant Marine Jobs
The Merchant Marine refers to the fleet of American merchant vessels that transport goods and services on the seas and inland waterways. Members of the Merchant Marine (known as mariners or merchant mariners, not as marines) operate and maintain these ships, and handle cargo. During times of war, the Merchant Marine supports U.S. military efforts by transporting troops and equipment.
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Types
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Jobs in the Merchant Marine include captains, masters, pilots, ship engineers, and various sailors and deckhands.
Significance
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Captains and masters supervise ship operations and crews. Pilots steer vessels through seas and other waterways. Engineers operate and maintain shipboard machinery, including engines, generators and pumps.
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Function
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Sailors and deckhands are involved in all areas of ship operations. Jobs include maintaining deck equipment and handling freight. Larger vessels have a lead deckhand known as a boatswain.
Considerations
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The U.S. Coast Guard establishes and regulates most training and educational requirements for members of the Merchant Marine. The Coast Guard offers various types of licenses for crew members of merchant ships.
Features
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Coast Guard licensing requirements vary with the type of job, vessel and waterway (ocean, river or Great Lake).
Misconceptions
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Although the Merchant Marine is an auxiliary of the U.S. Navy, it is not a uniformed service except in times of war.
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