Vacancies for OS (Ordinary Seaman)

OS or Ordinary Seaman is a junior member of the deck crew and one of the first practical steps toward becoming an AB Seaman. On most vessels, the OS learns basic deck work, seamanship and ship routine while gaining the sea time and practical experience needed to move up in the deck department. In practice, this is the rank where a seafarer starts learning how real deck work is done on board.

OS Salary Expectations

OS salary today usually falls in the USD 1,200 - 1,700 per month range on much of the merchant fleet, depending on vessel type, company and contract terms. The average OS salary on Maritime Zone is around USD 1,501/month. In current vacancies on the site, you can see around USD 1,200 - 1,400 on General Cargo, USD 1,450 - 1,700 on Bulk Carrier, and around USD 1,550 on RO-RO. Some European container operators also use a day-rate format, with offers around EUR 100 - 110 per day on rotational contracts. Broader Maritime Zone salary data also shows that some stronger contracts can go much higher, especially on better-paying RO-RO, tug and specialized vessel segments. For a broader overview, see the OS salary statistics page.

Duties

The Ordinary Seaman helps with routine deck maintenance and basic seamanship work. This usually includes cleaning, washing down, removing rust, painting, handling mooring ropes, chains and wires, and helping keep the deck area in proper condition.

The job also includes assistance during berthing, anchoring and other deck operations, checking lashings or cargo fastenings where required, helping with emergency and life-saving equipment, and taking part in boat work when needed. On many ships, the OS works under the supervision of senior deck crew and gradually builds the practical habits needed for the next step toward AB Seaman and later Boatswain.

Because this is a junior deck rank, companies usually expect discipline, willingness to learn, physical readiness for deck work and the ability to follow instructions properly. A good OS is not only a hard worker, but also someone who learns fast and becomes reliable during routine and safety-related operations.

Requirements

An OS vacancy usually requires STCW Basic Safety Training (BST), STCW II/4 certification for ratings forming part of a navigational watch, a valid medical fitness certificate such as ENG1 or equivalent, a Seaman’s Book, and enough physical fitness to handle deck work safely. Depending on vessel type and company policy, employers may also ask for English skills or previous experience in a junior deck role.

If you are looking for the best OS vacancies, compare not only salary, but also vessel type, contract length, workload, training value and the reputation of the company. The best OS contract is not always the one with the highest number. Good onboard experience, proper supervision and a real chance to move up often matter just as much.