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Boat Pilot Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

ENSTRUCTURE LLC

Harbor Pilot (Boat Pilot)

Memphis, TN · On-site

The Tow Boat Pilot is responsible for assisting in all aspects of the loading and unloading cargo off barges. 12-hr shifts, home daily. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES : * Responsible for the ...

Southern Devall Towing Co

4C Pilot

Memphis, TN · On-site

While on the boat, pilothouse personnel stand watch for 12 hours each day with the watch broken ... The Pilot normally stands the after watch (Noon to 6:00 PM and Midnight to 6:00 AM). The Relief ...

Southern Devall Towing Co

Captain / Pilot

Memphis, TN · On-site

While on the boat, pilothouse personnel stand watch for 12 hours each day with the watch broken ... The Pilot normally stands the after watch (Noon to 6:00 PM and Midnight to 6:00 AM). The Relief ...

Southern Devall Towing Co

4A Captain

Memphis, TN · On-site

While on the boat, pilothouse personnel stand watch for 12 hours each day with the watch broken ... The Pilot normally stands the after watch (Noon to 6:00 PM and Midnight to 6:00 AM). The Relief ...

Watco

Friction Crane Operator - Memphis, TN

Memphis, TN · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

... boat pilots with docking and launch, climbing ladders, opening lids, and attaching cables Complete all general labor duties assigned around the terminal including general maintenance and upkeep ...

Watco

Friction Crane Operator - Memphis, TN

Memphis, TN · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

... boat pilots with docking and launch, climbing ladders, opening lids, and attaching cables Complete all general labor duties assigned around the terminal including general maintenance and upkeep ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

Piloting and Boat Handling experience on coastal and river waterways: minimum 6months, desired 1yr. * Self-disciplined work habits and personal grooming. * Good communication skills and team skills.

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Boat Pilot information

See Tennessee salary details

$49.5K

$131.2K

$245.1K

How much do boat pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for boat pilot in Tennessee is $131,179.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,800.00 and $208,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a boat pilot?

Boat Pilots, also known as maritime pilots or harbor pilots, are skilled professionals who navigate ships through dangerous or congested waters, such as harbors, rivers, or canals. They possess expert knowledge of local waterways and assist a ship's captain by boarding vessels and providing guidance to ensure safe passage. Their work is crucial in preventing accidents and protecting both the vessel and the surrounding environment. Boat Pilots often work for port authorities or pilot associations and must hold specialized licenses.

What does a boat pilot do?

A boat pilot operates a shipping vessel that may serve in several capacities, from transporting goods to ferrying passengers through areas where a captain may not have local knowledge for navigation. In this career, you usually work for a port or dock instead of a particular ship. Your duties may take you aboard a variety of boats throughout a day, making familiarity with basic operation imperative. Excellent communication between both the shore dispatchers and the crew is vital. To succeed as a boat pilot, you need exceptional knowledge of the hazards, currents, and tides of the harbor at which you work.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a boat pilot?

To thrive as a Boat Pilot, you need strong navigational skills, maritime knowledge, and relevant licensure such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) or pilot's license. Familiarity with navigation systems like GPS, radar, and electronic chart display systems is essential, along with knowledge of maritime safety regulations. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making, and clear communication are vital soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure safe vessel operation, compliance with regulations, and effective teamwork in dynamic maritime environments.

What are common challenges faced by boat pilots during daily operations?

Boat Pilots often encounter challenges such as navigating in adverse weather conditions, managing vessel traffic in busy waterways, and ensuring compliance with local maritime regulations. They must also maintain clear communication with crew members and port authorities to ensure safe docking and undocking procedures. Adapting to rapidly changing environmental factors and making quick decisions are crucial aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Boat Pilot vs Marine Deckhand?

AspectBoat PilotMarine Deckhand
CredentialsCommercial boating license, navigation trainingBasic maritime safety certifications, physical fitness
Work EnvironmentOperates vessels, navigates waterwaysAssists with vessel maintenance, cargo handling
Employer & IndustryMaritime companies, shipping, ferriesShipping companies, cruise lines, fishing industry

Boat Pilots are responsible for navigating and operating vessels, requiring navigation licenses and specialized training. Marine Deckhands assist with vessel maintenance and cargo, often with basic safety certifications. While both roles work in maritime environments, Boat Pilots have more responsibility for navigation and vessel operation, whereas Marine Deckhands support daily vessel functions.

Are marine boat pilots paid well?

Marine boat pilots typically earn competitive wages that vary based on experience, certification, and the type of vessels they operate. Salaries can range from moderate to high, especially for pilots working in busy ports or with specialized skills, and often include benefits due to the demanding nature of the job. Overall, the profession offers the potential for good compensation compared to many other maritime roles.

How much do boat pilots make?

Boat pilots, also known as marine pilots, typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of vessels they pilot. They often work long hours and require specialized certifications and knowledge of local waterways. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of the navigation and the employer.
More about Boat Pilot jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Boat Pilot jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Boat Pilot jobs in Tennessee are:

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For Boat Pilot jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Boat Pilot jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Boat Pilot jobs in TN?

For Boat Pilot jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Boat Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boat Pilot job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $131,179 per year, or $63.1 per hour.

Harbor Pilot (Boat Pilot)

ENSTRUCTURE LLC

Memphis, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Enstructure rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


SUMMARY OF POSITION:

The Tow Boat Pilot is responsible for assisting in all aspects of the loading and unloading cargo off barges. 12-hr shifts, home daily. 

 ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Responsible for the safe and efficient operation and performance of his crew, vessel, and tow.
  • The Captain/pilot must also strive to see that company policy, rules, and regulations are followed.
  • Must report to the office all violations of policy or violations of federal, state, or local laws.
  • Conducting monthly drills and safety meetings in accordance with policies and procedures.
  • Ensure that work completed in accordance with Company safety policies and practices.
  • Ensure all crew members on vessel receive instruction on how to do jobs properly and monitor performance.
  • Carry out all duties assigned under the Vessel Security Plan as the designated vessel security officer.
  • Ensure that each crew member knows the cargo of each barge in tow and has an understanding of any hazards associated with said cargoes.
  • Enforce all Company policies and vessel specific guidelines in support of the Crew Endurance Management System onboard all vessels.
  • Participate in crew management, performance evaluation, general supervisory duties and management of the vessel’s budget.
  • Complete required log entries.
  • Maintain radio watch as required.
  • Report Certain Dangerous Cargoes (CDC) barges at pick-up, drop-off, and designated mile points to the Inland River Vessel Movement Center.
  • Enforce all rules.
  • Give assignments and direction to the mate and/or lead deckhand.
  • Comply with all established vessel management policies and procedures.
  • Maintain the vessel budget and help maximize cost efficiency as directed.
  • Provide instructions and information to crew members, land-based personnel, and USCG or lock personnel.
  • Performing other related duties as assigned or requested.

 

JOB REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to work as part of a team.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience
  • Effective communication skills.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Ability to work in dock area on water.
  • Physical labor experience working outdoors is a plus.
  • Reliable transportation.
  • Must be 18 or older to board a vessel.
  • Must be able to handle and lift rigging (up to 75 lbs-100lbs)
  • Must retain a USCG Master of Towing Vessels license endorsed for service.
  • Must meet USCG physical examination requirements.
  • Must be able to climb steep stairs, sit or stand for long periods of time.

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