Explore Careers

Seamen

Explore Careers

Seamen

Transportation, Distribution & Logistics
Enlisted Role

Service Branches with this Role

  • Army logo
  • Navy logo
  • Coast Guard logo

What do Seamen do in the Military?

Seamen are responsible for the smooth operation of the majority of occurrences above deck.

Where do Seamen work?

Seamen work aboard all types of ships and submarines. On ships, they often work outdoors on deck while servicing shipboard equipment.

How much do they make?

Median Military Salary

This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$69,061

Military Salary Range

This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$22,839 - $331,665

How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary

Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.

  • Set based on rank and years of service.
  • Paid every month.

Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.

  • Tax-free payments.
  • Varies by location and family status.

Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.

  • Based on specialized roles.
  • Varies by position and duty.

What training do Seamen gain in the Military?

All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Job training for seamen consists of classroom instruction, on-the-job learning in various training environments, and through receiving advanced civilian/industry certifications and licenses (credentials), which may require additional education, training, or experience. Training programs vary depending on service and specialty.

Military Training for Enlisted Service members

All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.

What skills help Seamen succeed?

  • Ability to work closely with others
  • Interest in sailing and being at sea
  • Preference for physical work

What are possible career paths after the Military?

  • Motorboat Operators
  • Captains, Mates and Pilots of Water Vessels
  • Sailors and Marine Oilers
  • Ship Engineers
  • Subway and Streetcar Operators
  • Locomotive Engineers
  • Team Assemblers
  • Commercial Divers

Interested? Take Your Next Step!