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Boat Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Livestock Nutrition Center

Boat Pilot

Keota, OK · On-site

The Harbor/Port Tugboat Pilot will oversee all crew onboard and is responsible for the safety of all crew and equipment. Responsibilities & Duties: * Responsible for safety of navigation and ...

Livestock Nutrition Center

Boat Pilot

Keota, OK

The Harbor/Port Tugboat Pilot will oversee all crew onboard and is responsible for the safety of all crew and equipment. Responsibilities & Duties: * Responsible for safety of navigation and ...

United States Steel Corporation

Boat Pilot

Clairton, PA · On-site

Operating Technician I (River Pilot) is responsible for moving the barge fleet around the Mon River basin. This will include placing barges under and around the Coal Unloaders, which remove the coal ...

TerralRiver Service

BOAT PILOT - FLEET

Blytheville, AR · On-site

This provides a general overview of the typical responsibilities and qualifications for a Boat Pilot. Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and industry ...

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Tow Boat Pilot

Memphis, TN · On-site

$500 - $575/hr

Tow Boat Pilot Enstructure Location: 382 Klinke Road, Memphis, TN 38127 Job Type: Full-Time Pay: $500$575 per day, based on experience Schedule: Vessel-based, full-time. Towing operations run on a ...

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Boat Pilot information

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$54.5K

$144.5K

$270K

How much do boat pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for boat pilot in the United States is $144,531.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $230,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some 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 Job of a Boat Pilot?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Boat Pilot, and why are they important?

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.

What are Boat Pilots?

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.
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Boat Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boat Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $144,531 per year, or $69.5 per hour.

Boat Pilot - MO City

Farmer Holding Company

Missouri City, MO

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

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

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