This Chart Helps You Find the Right Career Based on Salary and Growth

My profession isn't listed: Licensed Merchant Mariner

Third Assistant Engineer / Third Mate: $100,000

Second Assistant Engineer / Second Mate: $120,000

First Assistant Engineer / First Mate: $140,000

Chief Engineer / Chief Mate: $160,000

Master (Captain): $200,000

And that is only working half the year at sea. Salaries listed are approximate, and if anything, on the low end. Schooling is the easiest way to enter the profession. Free if attending the federal maritime academy, approximately $10,000 a year for 4 years if attending one of the six state maritime academies. Able to upgrade license to the next rating after one year of sea time in the current rating.