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Cargo Ship Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DP World

Port Captain

Eldon, MO

... 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 ...

L&M Botruc Rental LLC

Be Seen First

Offshore Supply Vessel Captain

Pascagoula, MS · On-site

$625 - $725/day

Support offshore oil and gas operations, including transportation of cargo, equipment, supplies ... Train, mentor, and evaluate shipboard personnel to ensure safe and efficient vessel operations.

Centerline Logistics Corporation

Captain

Portland, OR · On-site

$875/wk

Previous experience as a captain onboard a tug. * Must have a valid Coast Guard license with a ... ship assist, the transportation of general cargo and rescue towing. Centerline Logistics is the ...

Centerline Logistics Corporation

Captain

Portland, OR · On-site

$780 - $875/hr

Previous experience as a captain onboard a tug. * Must have a valid Coast Guard license with a ... ship assist, the transportation of general cargo and rescue towing. Centerline Logistics is the ...

Yulista

Able Bodied Seaman

Panama City, FL · On-site

... ship's captain or other officers. Able Seamen are primarily responsible for supporting the ship ... Inspecting, maintaining, and securing cargo in compliance with load restrictions and damage ...

Yulista

Able Bodied Seaman

Panama City, FL

... ship's captain or other officers. Able Seamen are primarily responsible for supporting the ship ... Inspecting, maintaining, and securing cargo in compliance with load restrictions and damage ...

V2X

... visiting ships with local knowledge, tug assist coordination and navigation and docking ... cargo handling and passenger guidelines * coordinate with other departments on marine issues and ...

State of Louisiana

ORDINARY SEAMAN

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

The Ordinary Seaman is under general supervision of the ship's captain, performs various functions ... Assists Captain/First Mate in the operation of the vessel including: cargo handling and storage ...

Land and Sea

Captain - Land & Sea

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$42.62 - $57.50/hr

... cargo and compliance with maritime laws and regulations. The captain will oversee all aspects of ... Maintain Vessel Operations and Maintenance Logs, Personnel Reports, and all other Ship's Business ...

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Cargo Ship Captain information

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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.

Port Captain

DP World

Eldon, MO

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

DP World rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

347th of 362 rated logistics

Job description

Part of his main responsibilities are as follows:

Ensure vessels budgets are followed in connection with food provisions and housekeeping purchase products 

Liaise with Captains and Crew establishing and maintaining positive communication between vessel and office staff, promoting the safety and well-being of Seafaring personnel and property on a day to day basis. 

Conduct thorough technical interviews of deck officer candidates, selecting suitable crew for assigned vessels 

Brief Masters, Officers and crew before their assignment to vessel, ensuring they are aware of their roles and responsibilities on board, and clearly communicating company expectations. 

Liaising with the Personnel Department regarding all aspects of travel, crew changes and other Personnel issues in conjunction with the Vessel Master. Monitor crew 'overlap days'. 

Ensure requisitions are sent on time and review vessels Deck and Catering requisition to ensure efficient and economical inventory is maintained. 

Liaising with Purchasing to ensure timely delivery of supplies, and that purchase requisitions are being tracked and expedited in a timely manner. Bringing to the attention of the Team leader any items which have the potential to disrupt operations. Ensure sufficient spares are carried. 

Closely monitor the performance of the bridge team on board, completing regular performance appraisals for the Captains 

Highlight any high potential candidates or underperforming crew to the Fleet Superintendent so that competence / performance issues can be addressed in accordance with Company procedures 

Ensure that all ships staff are given an appropriate hand-over and receive familiarization when joining. 

Ensure continuous general wellness and welfare of the crew. 

Conduct regular on-board inspections (Each vessel to be visited monthly). Inspections including the ship's hull, cargo spaces, deck machineries, safety equipment etc. 

In the event of special requirements to be present on board the vessel for offshore operations. 

Liaising with the Operations Department and Vessel Master with reference to Certification, Safety Equipment and Loose Lifting Gear etc. 

Preparing vessel repair specifications in association with the Engineering superintendent/ Port Engineer. 

Ensure IMCA guidelines and "best industry practices" are adhered to at all times, with regard to vessel DP operations, equipment and personnel requirements. 

Ensure that the fleets' DP equipment/ Navigational Equipment is in a fully operational state of readiness at all times. 

ABOUT THE BUSINESS

P&O Maritime Logistics (POML) is a leading provider of marine solutions with focus on offshore energy, port services and logistics. The company provides a wide portfolio of value-added marine services and ability to integrate these offerings for its customers - always with safety and the environment at the forefront.

Headquartered in Dubai, the company has operations globally across all seven continents.

In July 2019, Topaz Energy and Marine was acquired by DP World, merged with P&O Maritime and started operating under the P&O brand as P&O Maritime Logistics.

www.pomaritime.com


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