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Boat Captain Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Position Requirements At least three (3) years of experience as a Boat Captain is required, along with a Master Boat Captain license and a Master of Towing endorsement for tugboat operations. The ...

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Captain

Fairhope, AL · On-site

$26/hr

The Andale' has two missions that you would support, tactical boat maneuvers and aerial delivery ... Captains essential duties: Safety of crew and vessel. * Ensures safety equipment is utilized and ...

The Andale' has two missions that you would support, tactical boat maneuvers and aerial delivery ... Captains essential duties: Safety of crew and vessel. * Ensures safety equipment is utilized and ...

Equipo

Athens, AL · On-site

¿Qué hace que una ubicación de Captain D's de Trident Holdings sea un excelente lugar para trabajar? ¡Es nuestra gente! Hemos construido una cultura comprometida con el desarrollo y el ...

¿Qué hace que una ubicación de Captain D's de Trident Holdings sea un excelente lugar para trabajar? ¡Es nuestra gente! Hemos construido una cultura comprometida con el desarrollo y el ...

¿Qué hace que una ubicación de Captain D's de Trident Holdings sea un excelente lugar para trabajar? ¡Es nuestra gente! Hemos construido una cultura comprometida con el desarrollo y el ...

Store 2723834: 603 Bessemer Super Hwy, Midfield, Alabama 35228 Shift Availability Days (Weekdays + Weekend Availability Required) Time Type Full time Circle K is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The ...

Kona Ice Big Cove/Scottsboro/Rainsville We are looking for motivated and charismatic servers to join our local Krew. This role involves behind-the-scenes responsibilities, mainly carried out at our ...

Captain of the Guard

AL · On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

The Captain of the Guard is responsible to the Sr. Operations Manager for the scheduling, operations, staff training and quality of service to the client, which is a Fortune Global 500 company. The ...

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Boat Captain information

See Alabama salary details

$5

$23

$44

How much do boat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat captain in Alabama is $23.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $27.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a boat captain do?

A Boat Captain is the leader of a naval vessel and has overall command and control of the navigation, maneuvering, stowage, communications, and safe handling of the ship. The Boat Captain is a licensed professional and ensures that the ship complies with local and international rules and policy regarding their vessel. Not only does this professional oversee the tasks of the crew, but they also ensure that all daily duties are completed, and that equipment is operational. There is generally a Captain onboard no matter the type of vessel, such as a deep-sea fishing boat or an aircraft carrier. The Boat Captain is an organized individual with years of experience working on a boat.

What does a boat captain do?

A Boat Captain is responsible for operating and navigating boats or ships, ensuring the safety of passengers, crew, and cargo during voyages. Their duties include overseeing the maintenance of the vessel, complying with maritime laws and regulations, and managing the crew on board. Boat Captains may work on various types of vessels, such as ferries, private yachts, fishing boats, or commercial ships. They are also trained to handle emergency situations and weather-related challenges to ensure smooth and safe operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a boat captain, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Boat Captain, you need a thorough understanding of navigation, seamanship, maritime laws, and often a U.S. Coast Guard license or equivalent certification. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, radar, radio communication equipment, and safety protocols is essential. Leadership, decision-making under pressure, and strong communication skills set exceptional captains apart. These abilities ensure safe vessel operation, compliance with regulations, and the effective management of crew and passengers.

What are some common challenges boat captains face when managing a crew and passengers during trips?

Boat Captains often encounter challenges balancing crew management with the safety and comfort of passengers. They must ensure clear communication among crew members, address unexpected weather or technical issues, and respond calmly to emergencies. Captains also need to provide excellent customer service, handle passenger concerns, and enforce safety protocols, all while maintaining operational efficiency. Successfully managing these aspects requires strong leadership, adaptability, and a thorough understanding of maritime regulations.

What is the difference between Boat Captain vs Marine Deckhand?

AspectBoat CaptainMarine Deckhand
CertificationsCaptain's license, STCW certificationSTCW certification, basic safety training
Work EnvironmentOperates vessels, manages crew, plans routesAssists with vessel maintenance, handles cargo, supports navigation
Industry UsageCommercial, recreational, passenger vesselsCommercial ships, yachts, ferries

While both roles work on vessels, the Boat Captain is responsible for navigation, safety, and overall vessel operation, requiring a captain's license. The Marine Deckhand supports these operations, focusing on maintenance and assisting the crew. The roles often overlap in the maritime industry, but the Boat Captain holds more responsibility and required certifications.

Are boat captains in high demand?

Boat captains are in steady demand, especially in regions with active maritime, tourism, and recreational boating industries. Employment opportunities often depend on experience, certifications such as a USCG license, and the ability to operate various vessel types. The job market can fluctuate with seasonal tourism and economic factors affecting water-based activities.

Is being a boat captain a good career?

Being a boat captain can be a rewarding career for those interested in maritime operations, navigation, and leadership. It requires obtaining proper certifications such as a captain's license, gaining experience, and maintaining safety standards. Job opportunities vary by industry, including recreational, commercial, and transportation sectors, with potential for advancement and varied work environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Boat Captain jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Boat Captain jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Boat Captain jobs in Alabama?

For Boat Captain jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Boat Captain jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Boat Captain jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Boat Captain jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Boat Captain job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Boat Captain jobs in AL?

For Boat Captain jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Boat Captain job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,520 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Boat Captain

ORION

Mobile, AL • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Tugboat And Barge Operator

This position is accountable for supporting field operations at marine project locations for Orion Marine Construction -- Atlantic region. Incumbents are responsible for the Tugboat and Barge while these vessels are underway going to or returning from a marine project site. Typically, they will work closely with the project Superintendents, General Foreman, Barge Foreman, Crane Operators, Welders, Laborers, Helpers and other skilled or semi-skilled crafts persons. The incumbent must support the guiding beliefs and core values of Orion, which are centered on Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Teamwork most importantly, with each built upon the all-important foundation of Integrity.

Specific Responsibilities
  • Works as assigned by the General Foreman to ensure the successful completion of on-going or new marine construction projects.
  • Operates the tugboat and barge while these vessels are in transit to and from marine project locations and doing so in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Demonstrates ability to maneuver, position, turn, slow, stop vessels as required by the field operation.
  • Utilizes various hand signals for communicating with flagman on barge deck.
  • Uses tie-up ropes and wires to secure the tugboat to barges for towing purposes.
  • Practices the "Rules of the Road" for operating vessels on inland waterways.
  • Uses radio equipment on the tugboat to communicate with the U.S. Coast Guard, ships, tugboats, etc.
  • Performs daily safety inspections of the tugboat and recognizes possible problem areas such as hull leaks, packing-gland leaking, tie-up cables and ropes, steering cables, wires, etc.
  • Performs minor maintenance as may be required and understands basic functions of the boat engine, transmission, generator, water pump, cooling system, etc.
  • Works closely with the General Foreman, Barge Foreman, Crane Operators, Welders, Helpers, and other skilled crafts persons to complete current projects in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Participates in Health, Safety and Environmental initiatives that will contribute to compliance of State/Federal regulations and improve existing Company programs.
Employee Safety And Compliance
  • Responsible and accountable for incumbent's own personal safety.
  • Responsible and accountable for the safety of all co-workers and any others incumbent comes in contact with.
  • Authorized and obligated to stop work on any task or series of tasks whenever an unsafe condition or situation is anticipated or is observed.
  • Complies with all applicable laws, regulations and Company policies and procedures, and is subject to appropriate disciplinary action (including dismissal) for failure to do so.
  • Reports any and all violations of applicable laws, regulations or Company policies and procedures promptly, and is subject to appropriate disciplinary action (including dismissal) for failure to do so.
  • Performs other related administrative and technical duties as may be assigned or requested by immediate supervision (such as certification training, safety training, procedure review, etc.).
  • All employees, current and former, must maintain confidentiality by not disclosing to others any confidential, proprietary or trade secret information belonging to the Company.

Position Requirements

At least three (3) years of experience as a Boat Captain is required, along with a Master Boat Captain license and a Master of Towing endorsement for tugboat operations. The selected candidate must:

  • Know the "Rules of the Road" for operating vessels on inland waterways.
  • Be proficient in the use of radio equipment on the tugboat to communicate with the U.S. Coast Guard, ships, tugboats, etc.
  • Be knowledgeable in the use of tie-up ropes and wires to secure the tugboat and recognizing possible problem areas.
  • Be adept in the proper use, donning and doffing of negative pressure respirators, positive pressure and/or SCBA respiratory equipment.

The Company expects and requires incumbent and each of its other employees to observe and fulfill the above and all other safety responsibilities and actively work toward maintaining a safe workplace. Failure to do so can result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

Physical/Mental Requirements

The incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable workplace accommodation.

The individual must also be able to wear and properly utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to work or visit within areas where it is required. This includes hard hat, safety glasses, life vest, respirators, ear plugs, steel toed shoes, personal flotation devices (PFD's) or other protective equipment as required by the work performed and location the work is being done.

The incumbent must possess the ability to remain calm during emergencies and respond appropriately as dictated by the circumstance of the incident and as directed by the Safety Representative or other management personnel. Must be capable of evacuating the work area in a timely manner should an emergency situation arise.

In addition, Boat Captains must also be capable of:

  • Walking, stepping, climbing, or otherwise moving from one location on the job site to another, and normally involves physically getting onto and off of work barges, boats, vessels, or dock facilities of varying heights and access parameters.
  • Visually seeing navigable waterways well (either naturally or with corrective lenses).
  • Standing, stooping kneeling, squatting, climbing, or sitting for long periods of time.
  • Performing repetitive movements by feet, shoulders, arms, wrists, hands and back in performance of work.
  • Climbing vertical ladders to heights of 40'-50'.
  • Working in confined spaces.
  • Working at elevated heights.
  • Lifting 50 lb. objects as required.
  • Carrying 50 lb. objects as required.
  • Adapting to extreme temperature changes.
  • Adapting to outdoor conditions and prolonged exposure.