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Boat Crew Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our Tour Boat Captains pilot twin outboard 45' Corinthian Catamarans in Everglades Backcountry and ... Crew on our Corinthians is a Naturalist / Narrator / Deckhand although we occasionally run Six Pack ...

Boat Pilot

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$75 - $110/hr

Verify Vessel and Crew are suitable for the intended routes.* Ensure navigational assessments are completed prior to getting underway and updated as needed thought out each trip.* Ensure required ...

Pier & Lift Crew Member

Elkhorn, WI · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

The Boat House is looking for a reliable and hardworking Pier & Lift Crew Member to support our marina and waterfront operations. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work, mechanical ...

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Boat Crew information

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$10

$21

$32

How much do boat crew jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat crew in the United States is $21.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a boat crew?

Boat crew are individuals who work together to operate, maintain, and ensure the safety of a boat or ship. Their roles can include navigation, engine maintenance, safety checks, and assisting passengers or cargo operations. Depending on the vessel, boat crew may consist of positions such as deckhands, engineers, stewards, and officers. They often work in challenging environments and must be trained in emergency procedures and maritime safety regulations.

What do boat crew do?

Boat crew job titles include captain, mate, deckhand, steward, and stewardess. Boat crew positions often focus on providing recreation and entertainment and should not be confused with fishing jobs, although some boat crew positions focus on other commercial or industrial applications. Someone in a boat crew role may provide water safety training to guests, oversee or steer the vessel, or act as a steward or stewardess to provide food, entertainment, or customer service as necessary. Boat crew jobs are available on small vessels, such as personal yachts, or large cruise ships.

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

To thrive as Boat Crew, you need a solid understanding of seamanship, navigation, and safety procedures, often backed by maritime certifications such as STCW or equivalent. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, marine radios, and emergency equipment is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and quick decision-making are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure safe vessel operation, effective response to emergencies, and successful collaboration during demanding maritime conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by boat crew members during a typical voyage?

Boat crew members often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, long hours, and the need to quickly adapt to changing situations on board. Working in close quarters with others requires strong communication and teamwork skills, as well as the ability to remain calm under pressure. Additionally, crew members must frequently multitask between safety checks, maintenance, and assisting passengers or cargo, making time management and attention to detail essential for success.

What is the difference between Boat Crew vs Deckhand?

AspectBoat CrewDeckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, First AidSTCW Basic Safety, First Aid
Work EnvironmentMarinas, yachts, commercial vesselsYachts, ships, recreational boats
Employer & IndustryPrivate yacht owners, commercial operatorsLuxury yachts, commercial shipping
Common Search IntentBoat crew duties, job openingsDeckhand roles, yacht jobs

Boat Crew and Deckhand roles often overlap, with both requiring safety certifications and working in maritime environments. While 'Boat Crew' is a broader term encompassing various onboard positions, 'Deckhand' specifically refers to entry-level or supporting crew members responsible for maintenance, cleaning, and assisting with navigation. Both roles are essential in the maritime industry, with similar credentials and work settings, but 'Boat Crew' may include a wider range of responsibilities depending on the vessel.

How much do boat crew members make?

Boat crew members typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the type of vessel. Salaries can also include tips and benefits, especially for full-time positions or specialized roles such as captains or engineers.

What are the positions on a boat crew?

A boat crew typically includes positions such as captain or skipper, who is responsible for navigation and overall command; deckhands or crew members, who handle maintenance, docking, and safety tasks; and sometimes engineers or technicians, who manage mechanical systems. Additional roles may include lookout, cook, or specialized personnel depending on the vessel's size and purpose. Certifications like STCW or CPR are often required for certain positions.

What cities are hiring for Boat Crew jobs?

Cities with the most Boat Crew job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Boat Crew jobs?

The most popular types of Boat Crew jobs are:

What states have the most Boat Crew jobs?

States with the most job openings for Boat Crew jobs include:

Infographic showing various Boat Crew job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $44,261 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Capital Sand was founded in 1973 and is the trusted sand mining, production, and distribution company throughout the Midwest. We are committed to the highest level of production quality, customer service & safety standards for you and your business.

Capital Sand is recruiting a Boat Pilot for our traveling dredge crew.  Pilots will be responsible for the overall safety of the crew, barge, tow, and cargo during their watch.

Work Schedule: The position requires the ability to work a rotating schedule and live on vessel for extended periods of time. Primarily 5 days/week and 12-hour shifts. Some Saturdays as needed.  

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Safely navigate the barge or tow while assuring the remainder of the crew performs their daily functions.
  • Operate in strict compliance with all company policies and USCG compliance regulations pertaining to drug, alcohol, pollution, and safety.
  • Ensure vessel navigation equipment, VHF Radios, machinery, rigging, and all related equipment are in operating order.
  • Maintenance of an accurate and current log.
  • Timely investigate all accidents occurring during their shift involving boat and crew and make reports to the main office.

REQUIREMENTS

  • Must possess a valid U.S. Coast Guard issued Merchant Mariner Credential: Master of Towing Vessels Upon Western Rivers.
  • Must have a valid TWIC card, Radar Observer Certificate and Radiotelephone Operator Permit.
  • Experience in dredging operations and operating on the Missouri River is a plus.

This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position. We offer competitive wages and great employee benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) plan, life insurance and short and long-term disability.

EEO/Employer/Vet/Disabled

Capital will give consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status