Navigating Careers at Sea: Ship Types, Pay Structures, and Assignments in SIU vs. MSC

Join us in this in-depth episode of 'The Wandering Mariner' as we dive into the operational differences between the Seafarers International Union (SIU) and Military Sealift Command (MSC). Discover the various types of ships you might find yourself aboard, understand how pay structures differ, and explore how ship assignments are determined. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or new to maritime careers, this episode will provide valuable insights to help you navigate your career at sea. Don’t miss out as we compare these two key players in the maritime industry!

[thatonebeone]

i love this video so simple and the way you have both sides on the screen... for me im going with MSC ...going to apply for all my stuff and aim for mid year next year to join... i love the sea i dont care where i go as long as im out to sea the world im good with that

[kennethmorgan]

You mentioned a way to advance beyond entry level Utilityman to either Ordinary Seaman or Wiper is training through MSC. Is their training prior to being hired by MSC to qualify as Wiper or Ordinary Seaman?

[kenithsctt]

Your videos are very informative about the maritime industry. Thank you for being so detailed about SIU vs MSC. This information will really help folks decide which is better for them.

[deedo]

hey Chief! can you make a video on the various hazards onboard MSC ships? if able, can you elaborate on asbestos exposure and containment on ships? engine room and deck side safety and health hazards? common injuries? and lastly, how health care and dental care works when deployed? loving all the videos!!

[Deckhand]

I still don’t quite understand the scheduling for MSC. You have 120 day (minimum) hitches, but you get 30 days paid off per year. Can you take off more time and it’s just unpaid? How much time is in between hitches? Can you elaborate some on that? Thanks

[cheesypoofpoofs]

Would you please make a video on how or where to find jobs as an Ordinary seaman? (I got my TWIC & MMC) but I have no idea where to start? There’s so many terms, boats & endorsements. I don’t know what I’m able to work on as an OS.

I don’t have a preference I just want to make decent pay & get sea time.

[chad]

Really helpful analysis! Which do you think is better for upgrading your licenses? I read a few places that’s easier and faster do to with MSC, but I didn’t really understand why.

I’m joining later in life, so I have to be wise with my time.

[chulax]

Thank you for this informative video between the two companies. I'm applying for MSC hoping to join by Summer 2025.

[Peyotecactis]

Hey there! had a quick question. I just received my offer as a "supply utility man" from MSC. I'm endorsed as deck and was really wanting to go Ordinary Seaman. What do you think about accepting this? Could I still transfer to deck if I wanted? Lmk. Love the vids!

[hamidqadri]

Great, to the point & pertinent, Thanks for all your efforts!

[TEXZcrew]

What is the pool like for MSC? How long are you usually there and where do you live while waiting?

Great vid btw 👍🏼

[myfootballheroes]

Thank you sir, your videos are very valuable, full of knowledge and experience❤

[Bishop-op]

Is 48 to late to start this kind of work?

[jasonsafford]

Home steading does go on in msc i seen it myself

[Vanitas-ws]

Whats a typical schedule for OS at MSC

[chadklingensmith]

Was wondering how the MSC works with ab to mate. Do they have a program to hire in-house or how does ot work?

[mr.awsome]

Hey, I'm from Utah and am 18. I'm thinking about going into this. Where would you recommend I get started, or what are some helpful things to know.

[ThestAvenger]

Thank you for helping me to decide on which organization to attend. How long is school and while at school can you go home on the weekend? When I went to MSC job fair the recruiters said the rotation is 4/2 is that true? Can I have a goatee while on a ship or does it depend on the captain or ship?

[lamonttaylor]

I was going to put in for the apprenticeship program..

[Michael-rrem]

I know this is an older video, but is it possible to do all your training at SIU and sign on an MSC ship and just continue to pay your SIU union dues for the duration? Or would you lose your union status in order to work for MSC? Thank you