Unlicensed Seamen

Most unlicensed seamen start their careers in entry-level positions working on deck, in the engineering spaces or in the Stewards Department. After meeting minimum sea time requirements, an entry-level seaman is eligible to take a US Coast Guard exam for advancement to Able Seaman (AB) or Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED). Porters are not required to take exams for promotion to Second Cook or Steward in the Stewards Department.

Many of our unlicensed seamen are members of the Seafarers International Union (SIU) and are hired through the union Hiring Halls to fill unlicensed positions on the following vessels:

• M/V American Spirit
• M/V Walter J. McCarthy, Jr.
• M/V Indiana Harbor
• M/V Burns Harbor
• M/V St. Clair
• M/V John J. Boland
• M/V Adam E. Cornelius
• M/V H. Lee White
• M/V American Mariner
• M/V Buffalo
• M/V Sam Laud

Our Great Lakes vessels lay up for the winter in early to mid-January. The vessels usually start to fit-out for the navigation season in mid to late March.

Benefits

All ASC unlicensed seamen receive free room and board while employed aboard one of our vessels. We also provide paid vacation, pension, medical, and education benefits through the Seafarers International Union (SIU). The SIU has its own modern schools and upgrading programs.

Information For Veterans

Individuals who have had prior service in the military or other government agencies with qualifying shipboard experience may be immediately eligible for endorsements as Able Seaman, Qualified Member of the Engine Department or for a license as an engineer. Such individuals are encouraged to contact any US Coast Guard Regional Examination Center for additional information. You may also refer to the Code of Federal Regulations, 46CFR10.213, sea service as a member of the armed forces of the United States and on vessels owned by the United States as qualifying experience.

Employment Information

All Great Lakes vessel unlicensed seamen must meet the following requirements:

• Valid Merchant Mariners Document issued by the US Coast Guard
• Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) Card
• Current physical examination (unlicensed seamen obtain a
  clinic card from the union)
• Current USCG Drug Screen in accordance with NIDA standards
• Proof of US citizenship

Click here for Employment Forms

Additional Information

You can contact us for any additional information on employment opportunities by filling in our online form, writing to our Human Resources Department, or calling our Human Resources Department at the address and phone number shown below.