Boatswain - Seaward Services - TSVRON

Seaward Services Inc.; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 53,685 - 55,062; Full time

Job summary

A leading maritime company located in Norfolk, VA, is seeking a Boatswain. This full-time role involves providing leadership and seamanship expertise aboard Training Support Vessels. Responsibilities include overseeing deck operations and maintenance, advising the Chief Mate, and ensuring safety compliance. Applicants must have STCW-compliant credentials and possess strong leadership skills. This is an entry-level position requiring the ability to perform physically demanding tasks and work independently.

Qualifications

• STCW-compliant credentials including Able Seafarer–Deck.
• Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Strong leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Serve as helmsman and maintain course control.
• Advise the Chief Mate on deck operations.
• Oversee and participate in deck maintenance.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Seamanship

Education

STCW-compliant credentials

Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

Job description

Boatswain - Seaward Services - TSVRON

Salary: $38.97 / hour

Hornblower is seeking a Boatswain for our Seaward Services TSVRON operation in Norfolk, VA. This person will be adaptable, dynamic, and embody Hornblower's RESPECT Service System.

About The Opportunity

The Boatswain (Bosun) serves as the senior unlicensed deck rating aboard Training Support Vessels, providing leadership, seamanship expertise, and hands‑on support for deck operations. This position acts as the first‑line work leader for the deck crew and serves as an advisor to the Chief Mate. The Boatswain performs and oversees deck maintenance, stands helm or lookout watches as assigned, and ensures safe and efficient execution of deck tasks in accordance with operational requirements.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Serve as helmsman and maintain course control as directed by the Officer of the Watch.
• Stand lookout and navigational watches in accordance with operational requirements.
• Serve as the senior Able Seaman and act as first‑line work leader for the deck crew.
• Advise the Chief Mate on deck operations, maintenance needs, and daily work planning.
• Oversee and participate in deck maintenance including painting, cleaning, preservation, and line handling.
• Assist with anchoring, mooring, small boat operations, rigging, and other seamanship tasks.
• Ensure deck crew compliance with safety procedures, housekeeping standards, and operational protocols.
• Participate in required drills, safety training, and emergency response duties.
• Maintain deck equipment and work areas in safe, clean, and operational condition.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support vessel readiness and safe operations.

Requirements & Qualifications

• STCW‑compliant credentials including: Able Seafarer–Deck, Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (RFPNW), Basic Training, Proficiency in Survival Craft, Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD).
• Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Must possess or be eligible for a United States Passport.
• Must meet physical and medical standards for shipboard service, including the ability to perform physically demanding deck work.
• Strong leadership, communication, and seamanship skills with the ability to direct and support deck crew members.
• Ability to work independently, follow direction from ship’s officers, and exercise sound judgment.
• Must meet all company and contractual requirements.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

About Us

Hornblower’s passion is to provide amazing experiences on land and water. Our 40‑year success through organic growth and acquisitions has resulted in a portfolio of over 25 brands that welcome upwards of 30 million guests/riders annually. If you’re an enthusiastic team player who thrives in an environment where communication, creativity, and cooperation are encouraged, this may just be the opportunity for you.

EEO / Disabled / Protected Veteran Employer. Hornblower is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

• Hornblower offers equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals and prohibits discrimination and/or harassment of any type based on race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, pregnancy, or other characteristics.

• Hornblower complies with affirmative action responsibilities for qualified individuals as a federal, state, and local contractor, and participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations.

Seniority level

Entry level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Management and Manufacturing

Industry

Maritime Transportation