Ship mates have less responsibility than captains, so their wages are usually lower than those of captains. For pilots, wages vary based on the location and the pilot's experience.
Wages vary by destination. Wages are higher for trips across the ocean than for other waters. However, workers may wait months between jobs, which reduces their yearly income.
Many mariners who work full time on American ships receive benefits. These benefits may include health insurance and sick leave. Some employers also offer retirement plans.
Captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels (SOC 53-5021)
| Location |
Pay Period | |
||
| 25% |
Median |
75% |
||
| Illinois | Hourly | $30.30 | $40.63 | $51.53 |
| Yearly | $63,014 | $84,496 | $107,182 | |
| Cook County | Hourly | $22.33 | $37.12 | $47.19 |
| Yearly | $46,437 | $77,193 | $98,155 | |
| Edwardsville Area | Hourly | $45.15 | $51.53 | $60.60 |
| Yearly | $93,908 | $107,182 | $126,039 | |
| Peoria-Bloomington Area | Hourly | $31.86 | $47.16 | $49.15 |
| Yearly | $66,283 | $98,085 | $102,241 | |
| Shawnee National Forest Area | Hourly | $41.77 | $48.71 | $50.70 |
| Yearly | $86,883 | $101,320 | $105,457 | |
| United States | Hourly | $29.11 | $42.66 | $59.44 |
| Yearly | $60,550 | $88,730 | $123,640 | |