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Cargo Ship Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wood Resources, LLC

Towing Captain

Avondale, LA · On-site

... ship mooring, dredging, as well as construction andlandscaping materials. Position Summary ... Pushingand Pulling Tasks Dailyhandling of equipment, supplies, cargo, wires, and lines.

Wood Resources, LLC

Towing Captain

Avondale, LA · On-site

For more than 70 years, WoodResources has continued to provide marine towing, ship mooring ... Pushingand Pulling Tasks Dailyhandling of equipment, supplies, cargo, wires, and lines. OtheraOn ...

Dann Marine Towing

... cargo loss, contamination, spills or pollution. Grounding and wheel fouling should be reported ... abandon-ship drills Requirements * Minimum - Master of Towing Vessels 200 ton * 3-5 years ...

Dann Marine Towing

... cargo loss, contamination, spills or pollution. Grounding and wheel fouling should be reported ... abandon-ship drills Requirements * Minimum - Master of Towing Vessels 200 ton * 3-5 years ...

Dann Marine Towing

Captain/Relief Captain

... cargo loss, contamination, spills or pollution. Grounding and wheel fouling should be reported ... abandon-ship drills Requirements * Minimum - Master of Towing Vessels 200 ton * 3-5 years ...

DP World

Port Captain

Eldon, MO · On-site

... with Captains and Crew establishing and maintaining positive communication between vessel and ... Inspections including the ship's hull, cargo spaces, deck machineries, safety equipment etc. In the ...

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How much do cargo ship captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for cargo ship captain in the United States is $25.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do cargo ship captains make?

Cargo ship captains typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, vessel size, and the shipping company. They often work long hours at sea and require certifications such as a Merchant Marine license.

Are cargo ship captains in demand?

Cargo ship captains are in steady demand due to global trade and the need for experienced maritime leaders. The profession requires certifications such as a Master Mariner license and familiarity with navigation and safety protocols, which contribute to job stability in the shipping industry.

Is it hard to be a cargo ship captain?

Being a cargo ship captain requires extensive training, including obtaining a maritime license and gaining experience at sea. The job involves long hours, responsibility for crew and cargo safety, and navigating complex maritime conditions, making it a challenging profession. Strong leadership, decision-making skills, and knowledge of navigation tools are essential for success in this role.

What challenges do cargo ship captains face while managing international voyages?

Cargo Ship Captains often encounter challenges such as navigating through adverse weather conditions, managing diverse multicultural crews, and dealing with strict international maritime regulations. They are also responsible for ensuring cargo is safely loaded, transported, and delivered on time, while maintaining the ship’s operational efficiency. Communication with port authorities, adapting to shifting schedules, and troubleshooting mechanical issues are frequent parts of the job. Successfully managing these challenges requires a calm demeanor, strong organizational skills, and the ability to lead by example to maintain safety and efficiency throughout the voyage.

What does a cargo ship captain do?

A Cargo Ship Captain is responsible for overseeing the safe navigation and operation of a cargo vessel. They manage the crew, ensure compliance with maritime regulations, and oversee cargo loading and unloading. Captains also monitor weather conditions, plan efficient routes, and communicate with port authorities. Their role is critical in ensuring timely and secure delivery of goods across international waters.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a cargo ship captain?

To thrive as a Cargo Ship Captain, you need extensive maritime knowledge, navigational expertise, and a valid captain's license, often requiring years of seafaring experience. Familiarity with electronic navigation systems, ship management software, and international shipping regulations is crucial. Strong leadership, decision-making abilities, and effective communication skills help manage the crew and coordinate with port authorities. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure the safe, efficient, and lawful operation of vessels during international voyages.

How do you become a cargo ship captain?

To become a cargo ship captain, one must typically start as a deck officer by obtaining a maritime license such as an Officer of the Watch certification, gain experience at sea, and then advance through ranks by accumulating sailing hours and passing additional exams to earn a Master Mariner license. Strong leadership, navigation skills, and knowledge of safety regulations are essential for this role.
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Cargo Ship Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cargo Ship Captain job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Towing Captain

Wood Resources, LLC

Avondale, LA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Wood Resources, LLC is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status
For more than 70 years, WoodResources has continued to provide marine towing, ship mooring, dredging, as well as construction andlandscaping materials.
Position Summary:
Captains are responsible for the safe operation of vesselsand barges.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Total responsibility for the safety of the towing vessel. This includes ensuring that the vessel is adhering to the provisions of the Certificate of Inspection (once the COI has been issued) and follows applicable regulations regarding the towing vessel.
  • Determines if an unsafe operation endangers the vessel or the crew.
  • Report any accident, incident, illness of the crew, or maintenance problem.
  • Preparation, filing and onboard maintenance of all records and documents.
  • Ensuring and promoting a positive and proactive relationship with the customer through his or her actions, decisions, abilities, temperament and operational efficiency of the crew and vessel.

Job Requirements:
  • Captainâ€'s License
  • Medical Endorsement
  • Radar Endorsement
  • Radio and Telephone Permit
  • Current Transportation Work Identification Credential (TWIC) required

PhysicalRequirements:
Standingand Walking Tasks
Continuedand occasionally uninterrupted work on all decks of the vessel, including theengine room with the majority of the work comprised of standing and walking.
SittingTasks
Steeringthe vessel.
LiftingTasks
Thefollowing objects, from less than 10 to occasionally more than 100 pounds, maybe stored as low as floor level and lifted by the Captain or Relief Captain.Pumps, sack materials, tow and mooring lines, rigging equipment for barges,steel cable, anchors, stores, supplies and tools.
Crouching/ Squatting / Kneeling Tasks
Dailyhandling of equipment and cleaning.
Pushingand Pulling Tasks
Dailyhandling of equipment, supplies, cargo, wires, and lines.
Other“On the Job†Demands
Dailycrawling, jumping, stepping to board vessel, climbing, twisting.
PotentialWork Conditions and Exposures
Hot,cold or sudden changes in temperatures, noise, fumes, cramped quarters, sharpedges, vibrations, effect of seas on vessel, non-stationary work surfaces,working on water, significant distance from shore, moving parts and pressurelines.
Wood Resources, LLC is an equalopportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment withoutattention to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, genderidentity, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteranstatus, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected byfederal, state or local laws.
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