Sailors and Marine Oilers: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 31,360 sailors and marine oilers, and they earn a median of $49,610/year. The range runs from $33K to $82K. Oregon pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level sailors and marine oilers start around $33K. The gap between that and the median ($50K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $82K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon | $69K | 280 |
| Texas | $66K | 5,600 |
| Washington | $65K | 1,910 |
| Hawaii | $63K | 210 |
| New Jersey | $62K | 570 |
| Alaska | $61K | 440 |
| New York | $61K | 1,340 |
| Delaware | $58K | 60 |
| Connecticut | $56K | 350 |
| California | $55K | 1,830 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a sailors and marine oilers make?▼
The median sailors and marine oilers salary in the United States is $49,610 per year ($24/hour). Entry-level positions start around $33,350, while experienced professionals earn up to $81,890.
What education do you need to become a sailors and marine oilers?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for sailors and marine oilers?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for sailors and marine oilers.
What are the highest paying states for sailors and marine oilers?▼
The highest paying states for sailors and marine oilers are Oregon ($68,700), Texas ($65,680), Washington ($64,860), Hawaii ($63,280), New Jersey ($61,610). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.