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Boat Captain Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Mural Industrial

Boat Captain

Detroit, MI

$96.15 - $144.23/hr

Captain Harbor Assist Towing Detroit, MI / Toledo, OH (Consolidated Port) | Minimum 3-4 Years Experience The Mural Group | Industrial Division OVERVIEW Seeking a Captain with a minimum of 3-4 years ...

Mural Industrial

Boat Captain

Detroit, MI · On-site

Captain Harbor Assist Towing Detroit, MI / Toledo, OH (Consolidated Port) | Minimum 3-4 Years Experience The Mural Group | Industrial Division OVERVIEW Seeking a Captain with a minimum of 3-4 years ...

Mural Industrial

Boat Captain

Detroit, MI · On-site

$200K - $300K/yr

Captain Harbor Assist Towing Detroit, MI / Toledo, OH (Consolidated Port) | Minimum 3-4 Years Experience The Mural Group | Industrial Division OVERVIEW Seeking a Captain with a minimum of 3-4 years ...

Torrey Holistics

Boat Captain

Detroit, MI · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

CaptainHarbor Assist TowingDetroit, MI / Toledo, OH (Consolidated Port) | Minimum 3-4 Years ExperienceThe Mural Group | Industrial DivisionOVERVIEWSeeking a Captain with a minimum of 3-4 years of ...

Mormac Marine Group Inc

Captain

Sault Sainte Marie, MI · On-site

CAPTAIN About Us Original Soo Locks Boat Tours is a family-oriented boat tour company that was started in 1934, by Milo Welch. For 91 years the traveling public have enjoyed exciting Great Lakes ...

Walstrom Marine

Boat & Yacht Sales

Charlevoix, MI · On-site

Boat and Yacht Sales: Promote and sell a diverse range of boats and yachts from our inventory, ensuring the highest level of customer satisfaction throughout the sales process. * Product Knowledge:

Movement Labs

Neighborhood Captain, Detroit

Detroit, MI · On-site

$25/hr

As a Neighborhood Captain, you will focus on becoming a trusted neighbor and civic resource provider. You will organize lower turnout voters using door-to-door canvassing, phone calls, personalized ...

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Boat Captain information

See Michigan salary details

$4

$22

$42

How much do boat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat captain in Michigan is $22.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $26.59 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.
More about Boat Captain jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Boat Captain jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Boat Captain job openings:

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

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

Boat Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boat Captain job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 15% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,657 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Boat Captain

Mural Industrial

Detroit, MI

$96.15 - $144.23/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Captain

Harbor Assist Towing

Detroit, MI / Toledo, OH (Consolidated Port) | Minimum 3-4 Years Experience

The Mural Group | Industrial Division

OVERVIEW

Seeking a Captain with a minimum of 3-4 years of experience to provide Harbor Assist towing within the consolidated port of Detroit, Michigan and Toledo, Ohio.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Familiarization with the Federal Requirements governing the operation of Towing Vessels, 46 CFR Subchapter M
  • Familiarization with our Policies and Procedures, including our Responsible Carrier Program Manual
  • Maintain and analyze our Engine Room Logs, Comments Section, and Engine Hours Reports; periodically review outstanding maintenance items with the Engineer to ensure tugs are maintained and repaired to a seaworthy and safe condition
  • Travel as needed to our tug docks located throughout the Great Lakes system to perform towing assignments (both harbor towing and cross lake towing); travel may involve stays away from home residence
  • Assist with preparation of quotes for Outside Tows to meet customer demands
  • Ensure vessels are crewed, operated, and maintained in accordance with regulatory requirements, company standards, and customer expectations
  • Implement standard procedures and guidelines for the operation of a safe and environmentally sound ship
  • Ensure all vessel personnel comply with regulatory training requirements
  • Investigate vessel damage and personal injuries
  • Inspect vessels to ensure seaworthy condition and arrange for maintenance and repair activities to correct any deficiencies

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Must be able to deal with others using courtesy, tact, and good judgment
  • Must be able to work independently and without direct supervision
  • Must have strong communication and leadership skills
  • Must be very familiar with tug operations and repair and maintenance of marine equipment
  • Must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriate to daily job duties

MINIMUM WORK ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS

  • Carry up to 50 pounds
  • Repetitive climbing stairs and ladders
  • Repetitive bending, twisting, kneeling, and reaching
  • Stand constantly
  • Exposure to loud noise daily
  • Access confined spaces
  • Work in all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, heat, wind, heavy seas, etc.)
  • Work a variety of schedules and hours
  • Work weekends, holidays, and at nights on short notice

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

  • Valid USCG Master of Towing Vessel License upon Great Lakes, Inland Waters and Western Rivers
  • Valid Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Marine Radio Operator Permit
  • Valid CPR and First Aid card
  • Valid Driver's License
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