Sailors and marine oilers operate and maintain ships and vessels that transport cargo and passengers across the water. The work is hands-on, in demand, and you can start with a high school education. Here is what the job involves, what skills matter most, and how to get in.
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Sailors and marine oilers keep ships running smoothly. You inspect equipment, structures, and materials to catch problems early. You monitor processes and surroundings to stay alert to changing conditions. You identify objects and events that matter to safe operation. You control machines and processes that power the vessel. You make decisions and solve problems when issues arise. You also get information from instruments and crew members, and you communicate clearly with your team. The work requires focus, mechanical knowledge, and the ability to work in a team on the water.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Sailors and Marine Oilers earn a median of $51,520 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is modest. Employment is projected to grow 2 percent from 2024 to 2034, little or no change for all occupations, with about 3,900 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Start with a high school diploma or equivalent. Most sailors and marine oilers enter the field through on-the-job training and experience. You will learn maritime safety, vessel operation, and maintenance procedures as you work. Some positions require specific certifications related to public safety and maritime standards, which you can earn through training programs and exams. Education in transportation, mechanical systems, and safety protocols strengthens your readiness. Many people begin as entry-level crew members and advance as they gain experience and complete required certifications.
Most sailors start with high school and learn through maritime training programs and on-the-job experience. The path depends on the type of vessel and role you want, so if you are exploring options, Pathly can map the sailor and marine oiler path that fits you and work through it with your counselor to find the right starting point for you.
You do not need a license to work as a sailor and marine oiler, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You are drawn to hands-on work with machines and systems. You like solving practical problems and staying alert to what is happening around you. You work well with others and follow procedures carefully.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).