The U.S.-Flag Great Lakes fleet typically has a number of job openings during the shipping season. While many openings are "relief positions" (replacing regular crewmembers going on vacation), there are also permanent positions available in all ratings - entries, the qualified ratings (AB and QMED) and officers. Therefore, the length of employment could be several weeks or longer.
By law, no one may work on a U.S.-Flag commercial vessel without a Merchant Mariner's Document. For more information on obtaining an MMD, click here. Mariners already possessing a valid MMD (it must be renewed every five years), may contact the following individuals and organizations.
OFFICERS
The majority of U.S.-Flag lakers are contracted with American Maritime Officers to supply licensed officers. Individuals possessing an Engine or Deck license should contact Phil Kelley (1-800-221-9395). Other companies are contracted with Masters, Mates and Pilots (MMP). Contact Charles Malue (216-776-1667). Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association (MEBA) represents officers on Interlake Steamship vessels. MEBA's Lakes' agent, Salvatore Zingales, can be contacted at (216) 579-6322.
UNLICENSED PERSONNEL
Some companies are contracted with the Seafarers’ International Union (SIU) for their unlicensed personnel. For more information, call (810) 794-4988. MMP also represents unlicensed personnel on Grand River Navigation Company's vessels.
The following companies are contracted with Steelworkers Local 5000, but hire unlicensed personnel directly.
Central Marine Logistics, Inc. – Lori Johnston (219) 922-2644
Great Lakes Fleet, Inc. / Key Lakes, Inc. - 1-800-535-2321
The
Interlake Steamship Company – (800-327-3855, ext. 7140)
Liberty Steamship Company (a subsidiary of American Steamship Company) - Mary
Banks (800) 828-7230
Wisconsin & Michigan Steamship Company - Pauline Glomski (216) 228-7253
Working in the marine industry is a rewarding career, but as with all professions, it has its unique demands. Great Lakes shipping IS NOT a 9 to 5 job. The ships operate constantly, stopping only long enough to load or discharge cargo. If the ship arrives in port at 0130 (1:30 a.m.), that’s when loading or unloading begins. Similarly, if loading/unloading finishes at 2300 (11 p.m.), the vessel is underway minutes later. Crewmembers are aboard ship for weeks on end, with only limited opportunities for going ashore. The pay is competitive and the food is good and plentiful. Meals and rooms are provided free of charge. All members of Lake Carriers’ Association are Equal Opportunity Employers.