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Boat Captain Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

J.F. Brennan Company, Inc.

Harbor Boat Pilot

Burlington, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Brennan Marine Inc. (Brennan) is part of a 100-year-old, family-owned company headquartered out of La Crosse, WI. We provide inland harbor services for utility companies, dry bulk terminals, and ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Dubuque, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Standing piloting watches under instruction of Captain or Mate. * Assisting Engine Room Attendant ... Piloting and Boat Handling experience on coastal and river waterways: minimum 6months, desired 1yr.

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Dubuque, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Standing piloting watches under instruction of Captain or Mate. * Assisting Engine Room Attendant ... Piloting and Boat Handling experience on coastal and river waterways: minimum 6months, desired 1yr.

GAMEDAY

Pinsetter/C-mechanic

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Gameday Lanes is looking for a C-level or entry level mechanic. You will work alongside primary pinsetter mechanic. Some duties include: - Catching calls from the front (ex: removing pins in gutters ...

U.S. Navy

Boatswain's Mate

Grimes, IA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... boat operations, and flight deck activities - Close teamwork within the deck department and opportunities to lead junior Sailors as you advance Work Environment - Assignments on surface ships and at ...

U.S. Navy

Boatswain's Mate

Charles City, IA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... boat operations, and flight deck activities - Close teamwork within the deck department and opportunities to lead junior Sailors as you advance Work Environment - Assignments on surface ships and at ...

U.S. Navy

Boatswain's Mate

Anamosa, IA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... boat operations, and flight deck activities - Close teamwork within the deck department and opportunities to lead junior Sailors as you advance Work Environment - Assignments on surface ships and at ...

U.S. Navy

Boatswain's Mate

Algona, IA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... boat operations, and flight deck activities - Close teamwork within the deck department and opportunities to lead junior Sailors as you advance Work Environment - Assignments on surface ships and at ...

U.S. Navy

Boatswain's Mate

Perry, IA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... boat operations, and flight deck activities - Close teamwork within the deck department and opportunities to lead junior Sailors as you advance Work Environment - Assignments on surface ships and at ...

U.S. Navy

Boatswain's Mate

Carter Lake, IA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... boat operations, and flight deck activities - Close teamwork within the deck department and opportunities to lead junior Sailors as you advance Work Environment - Assignments on surface ships and at ...

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All JobsBoat Captain JobsBoat Captain Jobs in Iowa

Boat Captain information

See Iowa salary details

$5

$24

$45

How much do boat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat captain in Iowa is $24.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $28.65 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 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 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.

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.

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.

Is being a boat captain a good career?

Boat captains oversee the operation and safety of vessels, often working in recreational, commercial, or maritime industries. The career can be rewarding for those with strong leadership, navigation skills, and proper certifications, but it may involve irregular hours and physical demands. Job prospects depend on industry demand and geographic location.

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.
More about Boat Captain jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Boat Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boat Captain job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $50,280 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Team Captain Footwear & Apparel

Dick's Sporting Goods

Dubuque, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Dick's Sporting Goods rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 1,149 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 39 rated national retailers

Job description

At DICK'S Sporting Goods, we believe in how positively sports can change lives. On our team, everyone plays a critical role in creating confidence and excitement by personally equipping all athletes to achieve their dreams. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workforce, reflecting the communities we serve.

If you are ready to make a difference as part of the world's greatest sports team, apply to join our team today!

OVERVIEW:

Sport inspires us. Innovation drives us. Come Win With Us at DICK'S Sporting Goods as part of a team that redefines what's possible.

Whether you live for sport or cozy fashion, you'll love building your career at DICK'S. It's more than a job - it's a chance to be part of a team where you're welcomed, supported, and empowered from day one. In our stores, you'll make a real difference by delivering exceptional experiences to athletes of all abilities. If you're coachable, accountable, collaborative, and trustworthy, this is the place for you. Win with us every time you step onto the floor.

Lead a dynamic retail team focused on delivering exceptional service through product knowledge and athlete engagement across footwear and apparel. As a Team Captain - Footwear & Apparel, you will coach teammates, drive sales, and ensure athletes find the right products for performance and style. Grow your leadership impact in a fast paced, team first environment.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

  • Deliver outstanding athlete experiences by anticipating athlete needs and providing clear, accurate, and knowledgeable information about products and assortment. Uphold company merchandising and presentation standards by following established floor sets, signage requirements, price changes, inventory presentation, replenishment standards, etc. Promote and lead company programs (i.e., customer loyalty program participation, warranty sales, private label credit card enrollment, etc.).
  • Together with the SM and ASM, contribute to the development of 30-60-90 day plans to support business priorities for assigned department(s). Help establish working plans related to operational initiatives, staffing, hiring needs, operational and merchandising sets, etc. in accordance with established budgets and financial goals. Execute plans and make adjustments as needed throughout plan duration using independent judgment and analysis of plan effectiveness. When sole leader in building, act as Head Coach and perform general store oversight including opening and closing procedures, Front End and Cash Office functions, teammate supervision, etc.
  • Daily/weekly, communicate departmental goals and plans to direct reports and assign workload based on skill levels to maximize efficiencies. Monitor progress against plans and changes to store goals and pivot accordingly to ensure uninterrupted operations and athlete support while still meeting payroll and financial goals. Includes developing effective schedules for direct reports and making adjustments as needed to meet athlete traffic demands while also ensuring successful completion of operational and merchandising initiatives.
  • Build and lead a strong, effective team that successfully delivers positive athlete experiences. Includes taking the lead on sourcing, interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and retaining appropriate number of direct reports in area(s) of oversight. Ensure all teammates are properly trained and provide coaching, feedback, development, recognition, and motivation throughout teammate lifecycle. Also responsible for performance management, including annual reviews and promotional recommendations, and for holding teammates accountable for compliance with policies and procedures, including termination recommendations. Create a store environment where everyone, both teammates and athletes, are always welcome and treated with respect.
  • Adhere to and enforce established policies and procedures related to safety, loss prevention and standard operating procedures, as well as to laws/guidelines of external governing entities. Hold teammates who fail to meet or comply with expectations accountable.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent
  • 1-3 years of experience
  • Previous retail/customer-facing experience required.
  • Previous people leadership experience preferred

VIRTUAL REQUIREMENTS:

At DICK'S, we thrive on innovation and authenticity. That said, to protect the integrity and security of our hiring process, we ask that candidatesdo not use AI tools(like ChatGPT or others) during interviews or assessments.

To ensure a smooth and secure experience, please note the following:

  • Cameras must be onduring all virtual interviews.

  • AI tools are not permittedto be used by the candidateduring any part of the interview process.

  • Offers are contingent upon a satisfactory background check which may include ID verification.

If you have any questions or need accommodations, we're here to help. Thanks for helping us keep the process fair and secure for everyone!

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