Water transportation workers are found on every type of waterway. They work on oceans, lakes, harbors, rivers, and canals. These workers operate and maintain the ships. Captains are in command of the ship and supervise the work of other officers. Deck officers or mates assist captains.
Engineers operate, maintain, and repair machinery on the boat.
For more information about captains, mates, and engineers, see the Ship Officers and Engineers specialty. Seamen, also known as deckhands, operate the ship and its deck equipment. For more information about seamen, see the Deckhands specialty. Oilers work with the engineers. They lubricate gears, bearings, and other moving parts of engines and motors.