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Boat Captain Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Cajun Industries

Crew boat Captain

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

Overview The Light Equipment Operator must have the ability and experience to operate hand-held mechanical devices used on project site. Will operate one or more piece of equipment including but are ...

Cajun Industries

Crew boat Captain

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

More information about this job Overview The Light Equipment Operator must have the ability and experience to operate hand-held mechanical devices used on project site. Will operate one or more piece ...

Cajun Industries

Crew boat Captain

Baton Rouge, LA

More information about this job Overview The Light Equipment Operator must have the ability and experience to operate hand-held mechanical devices used on project site. Will operate one or more piece ...

State of Louisiana

MATE

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

The trial period is TBD at the discretion of the Captain. Must pass drug and alcohol screening tests as mandated by the Department of Transportation. Sufficient strength and physical dexterity to ...

State of Louisiana

MATE

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

The trial period is TBD at the discretion of the Captain. * Must pass drug and alcohol screening tests as mandated by the Department of Transportation. * Sufficient strength and physical dexterity to ...

All JobsBoat Captain JobsBoat Captain Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

Boat Captain information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$5

$24

$46

How much do boat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat captain in Baton Rouge, LA is $24.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $29.33 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 Baton Rouge, LA?

The most popular types of Boat Captain jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What are popular job titles related to Boat Captain jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

For Boat Captain jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Boat Captain jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Boat Captain jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Boat Captain jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Boat Captain job openings:

Boat Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boat Captain job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,402 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Crew boat Captain

Cajun Industries

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Cajun Industries rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview

The Light Equipment Operator must have the ability and experience to operate hand-held mechanical devices used on project site.  Will operate one or more piece of equipment including but are not limited to: bulldozers, excavators, front-end loaders, back hoes, forklifts, graders, diggers, drills, generators, saws, pumps. Must learn and understand all safety hazards related to the work and learn to safely and effectively use or operate work related tools and equipment. Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting.

Responsibilities

*The following are intended as general illustrations of the work in this job class and are not all-inclusive for this position.

  • Read and interpret load charts
  • Interpret hand signals to determine where materials are to be placed
  • Perform minor maintenance or cleaning activities for tools and equipment
  • Perform daily inspections on equipment including checking fluids, refueling, adding fluids, and assess component wear
  • Report malfunctioning equipment to supervisors
  • Load, transport, and unload materials, tools, equipment and supplies
  • Assist other craft workers as needed

Qualifications

Physical

  • Must be able to push/pull, lift, or carry up to 50 lbs., but may occasionally push/pull, lift, or carry up to 100 lbs.
  • Subject to repetitive use of hands/arms, and legs
  • Hand/eye coordination, depth perception important
  • Must be able to drive cars, trucks, forklifts, and other equipment
  • Must be able to communicate (hear, comprehend, and speak) to safely perform work
  • Will need to be able to perform sedentary to heavy work
  • May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types
  • Climb and maintain balance on steel/wood framework, stairs, ladders, scaffolds, and equipment
  • Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis
  • Position may require prolonged bending/twisting, walking, crawling, kneeling, reaching overhead, squatting, pushing /pulling, or standing and lifting
  • Must be able to walk on uneven surfaces, muddy conditions, loose rock, loose/soft sand, etc.
  • May be required to work in confined spaces
  • Will be exposed to adverse weather conditions (Heat, Cold, Rain, Etc.)

Mental

  • Must have the ability to communicate effectively with management/ supervision
  • Talking, reading & writing comprehension is necessary for giving and receiving directions to perform work and/or safety policy
  • Work at various tempos, and concentrate amid distractions
  • Decision making skills necessary
  • Detail-oriented; must be able to remember, examine, and observe details

What Cajun Industries employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

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