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Boat Pilot Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

OSI Recruit

Gulfstream G500 - Captain

Richmond, VA · On-site

As a G500 Pilot, you will be responsible for safely operating aircraft and ensuring the comfort and safety of its owners. This is a full\-time position with competitive pay. \n \n \n Location:

Dynamic Aviation

Gulfstream G-IV Captain

Bridgewater, VA · On-site

$67 - $83/hr

The Gulfstream G-IV Captain role exists to operate as pilot in command (PIC) or second in command (SIC) and ensure the safe and efficient operation of the aircraft and the safety of all on board ...

United States Coast Guard

Boatswain's Mate

Yorktown, VA · On-site

$22 - $24.75/hr

Skills You'll Learn Boat operations Seamanship and navigation Leadership Training You'll Get * BMs ... Captain, Mate, or Pilot of Water Vessels * General and Operations Manager * Emergency Management ...

Lynker Corporation

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$45K - $90K/yr

The primary duty of a UxS Operator is to stand pilot watches with the responsibility of maintaining ... Experience in boat handling and seamanship: licensed boater or captain is desired. Experience ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in challenging coastal and river waterways. Captains are meticulous professionals, in service to our guests and ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in challenging coastal and river waterways. Captains are meticulous professionals, in service to our guests and ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Petersburg, VA · On-site

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in challenging coastal and river waterways. Captains are meticulous professionals, in service to our guests and ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Norfolk, VA

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in challenging coastal and river waterways. Captains are meticulous professionals, in service to our guests and ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Mount Vernon, VA · On-site

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in challenging coastal and river waterways. Captains are meticulous professionals, in service to our guests and ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Mount Vernon, VA · On-site

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in challenging coastal and river waterways. Captains are meticulous professionals, in service to our guests and ...

McAllister Towing

Licensed Engineers

Norfolk, VA · On-site

... Harbor Pilot. Captain Westall was named Vice President and General Manager of McAllister of ... boat. The Licensed Engineer is responsible and accountable to the Port Engineer. The Licensed ...

McAllister Towing

Licensed Engineers

Norfolk, VA

... Harbor Pilot. Captain Westall was named Vice President and General Manager of McAllister of ... boat. The Licensed Engineer is responsible and accountable to the Port Engineer. The Licensed ...

Lynker Corporation

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$45K - $90K/yr

... pilot watches with the responsibility of maintaining the safety of the public and of the vessel ... • Experience in boat handling and seamanship: licensed boater or captain is desired. • ...

All JobsBoat Pilot JobsBoat Pilot Jobs in Virginia

Boat Pilot information

See Virginia salary details

$54K

$143.3K

$267.7K

How much do boat pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for boat pilot in Virginia is $143,291.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,100.00 and $228,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

How hard is it to become a boat pilot?

Becoming a boat pilot requires obtaining relevant licenses or certifications, which involve passing written exams, practical tests, and gaining maritime experience. The process can take several years, depending on the type of vessel and jurisdiction, and often requires strong navigation skills and knowledge of safety regulations.

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.

Is there a demand for boat pilots?

The demand for boat pilots is generally steady in industries such as shipping, maritime transportation, and port operations, especially in regions with busy waterways. Employment opportunities often depend on economic activity, port traffic, and the need for specialized navigation skills, with certifications like a pilot license being essential for many positions.

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 popular job titles related to Boat Pilot jobs in Virginia? For Boat Pilot jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Boat Pilot jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Boat Pilot jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Boat Pilot jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Boat Pilot job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Boat Pilot jobs in VA? For Boat Pilot jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Boat Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boat Pilot job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $143,291 per year, or $68.9 per hour.

Gulfstream G500 - Captain

OSI Recruit

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

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OSI \- Aviation Recruitment is seeking two (2) skilled and experienced G500 Pilots to join our team. As a G500 Pilot, you will be responsible for safely operating aircraft and ensuring the comfort and safety of its owners. This is a full\-time position with competitive pay.
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Location: Richmond, VA \- Must live within 1.5 hours away. No exceptions.<\/b>
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Type of Operation: Part 91\/135 \- Mostly Part 91<\/b>
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Responsibilities:<\/b>
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\- Operate aircraft in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations and company policies
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\- Conduct pre\-flight inspections to ensure aircraft is in proper working condition
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\- Communicate with air traffic control and other pilots to maintain safe and efficient flight operations
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\- Monitor aircraft systems during flight and make adjustments as necessary
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\- Provide exceptional customer service to passengers, ensuring their comfort and satisfaction throughout the flight
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\- Maintain accurate records of flight logs, including departure and arrival times, fuel consumption, and any incidents or observations
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\- Collaborate with ground crew for aircraft maintenance and repairs as needed
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Skills:<\/b>
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\- Excellent piloting skills with a strong understanding of aviation principles
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\- Proficiency in Spanish or other languages is a plus
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\- Strong customer service skills to provide a positive experience for passengers
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\- Ability to supervise and lead a team when necessary
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Requirements<\/h3>
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\- Valid pilot's license issued by the appropriate aviation authority
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\- Current medical certificate \- 1st Class
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\- Minimum flight hours as required by regulatory agencies
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\- Clean background check with no history of accidents or incidents
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\- Total Time: 3000+ hrs
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\- Jet Time: 2000+ hrs
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\- PIC Time: 1500+ hrs
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\n \- Total Time: 3000+ hrs 
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\n \- Jet Time: 1000+ hrs
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\n \- G500 Time: 400+ hrs
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\n \- Current 1st Class Medical
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\n \- Valid and Current Passport
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\n \- Must be fluent in English language
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\n \- Meet the current interview and hiring minimum age, including minimum flight hour requirements set by the FAA and our Client
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\n \- Clear background check
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\n \- Accident \/ Incident free
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Benefits<\/h3>
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  • Health Insurance<\/span><\/span>
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  • Dental Insurance<\/span><\/span>
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  • Life Insurance<\/span>
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  • Vision Insurance<\/span>
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  • Flexible spending account<\/span><\/span><\/span>
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  • Bonuses<\/span><\/span><\/span>
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  • 401K<\/span><\/span><\/span>
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    \n Join our team of skilled pilots and contribute to the safe and efficient operation of our aircraft. Apply now to be considered for this exciting opportunity.<\/b>
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Apply