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Cargo Ship Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Prioritize the safety of passengers, crew, vessels, and cargo at all times. * Assist the Captain ... Maintain accurate ship's logs, passenger manifests, engineering logs, and other required records.

Overview Responsible for the safe transportation of the assigned barge(s) and for the safety of the cargo, vessel(s) and crew. Responsible for safe docking of ships, (when applicable). Required to ...

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Cargo Ship Captain information

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$5

$25

$48

How much do cargo ship captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 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.

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.

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.

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 knowledge of navigation, safety, and cargo handling, which contribute to job stability in the shipping industry.

How do you become a cargo ship captain?

To become a cargo ship captain, you typically need to gain maritime experience by working as a deck officer and obtaining necessary certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential and a Master Mariner license. This process involves completing maritime education, accumulating sea time, and passing exams to demonstrate navigation and safety skills.

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 Master Mariner license.

Is it hard to be a cargo ship captain?

Being a cargo ship captain requires extensive training, experience, and leadership skills, as it involves managing crew, navigating complex routes, and ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. The job often involves long periods at sea, irregular hours, and high responsibility, making it a challenging profession. Certification and maritime knowledge are essential for success in this role.
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What states have the most Cargo Ship Captain jobs?

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What are popular job titles related to Cargo Ship Captain jobs?

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Infographic showing various Cargo Ship Captain job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

$120K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Centerline Logistics rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Directly supervise, hire, train and evaluate marine personnel. Conduct Tug Inspections, attend SIRE inspections, and conduct evaluations and navigation audits of Deck Officers via direct observations on board. Develop marine operations and cost control programs for vessels. Assist in new project development, interfacing with customers, etc. Assist in vessel scheduling of personnel as required. Produce weekly Operations reports.


  • Supervise Captains, Mates, and Deck Crews.
  • Ensure that vessels and crews are following and complying with State and Federal regulations.
  • Ensure that crews are following and complying with company policies.
  • Conduct Management Vessel Inspections on repair and maintenance standards and procedures.
  • Ensuring that vessels are SIRE ready.
  • Assist in scheduling of SIRE’s
  • Perform incident investigations.
  • Manage Compliance with company safety program.
  • Prompt and correct response to operating situations.
  • Perform inspections of vessels on repair & maintenance standards and procedures.
  • Recruitment, performance reviews and auditing of marine personnel.
  • Develop and administer operating & cost control procedures on company vessels.
  • Assist in new project development.
  • Interface with customers on an ongoing basis.
  • Operate company vessels as Captain if directed by President, Vice President, or Director of Marine Operations.
  • Accident & Spill Free Operations
  • Training, professional skill development of marine personnel
  • Monitor safety record of vessels and crew
  • Development of company operating procedures and acceptance by Vetters.
  • Perform in the company Spill Management team as assigned
  • Perform other related duties as assigned

  • Five (5) years at sea as Master on tugboats, tankers or oil barges or equivalent military experience.
  • Four (4) year college education in Maritime or related studies or equivalent experience preferred.
  • Valid US Coast Guard Master’s license on offshore towboats 200T Minimum/Master of Towing Endorsement.
  • ATB Operational experience strongly preferred
  • 500T Minimum Master of Towing preferred.
  • Extensive knowledge of the tugboat and oil transportation industry.
  • Must be thoroughly familiar with tank barge, ship and terminal/refinery operations.
  • Knowledge of tug and barge maintenance systems and equipment.
  • Complete a 24 hour HAZWOPER (including Incident Command System) training within 6 months of being hired.
  • First Aid/CPR training.
  • STCW Certification.
  • Valid State Driver’s license.
  • Ability to get along with office staff and vessel crew members.
  • Maintain the confidentiality of all sensitive communications.
  • Able and willing to travel to the out ports.
  • Ability to work with others using courtesy, tact, and good judgment.
  • Ability to understand and execute complex oral and written instructions.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal or no guidance.
  • Typing: 40 wpm.
  • Computer Skills: Word, Excel and Outlook.
  • Must be able to read, speak, write type and understand English in person and over the phone.

  • Capable of making decisions and giving directions to facilitate prompt service delivery.
  • Must be physically fit enough to board barges and tugs at sea and in port.
  • Frequently required to board tugs, barges, and ships, at dock or at anchor in all weather conditions and at all hours.

  • Normal office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
  • Take communications 24 hours a day, including weekends concerning changes in schedules and conditions.

Centerline Logistics is a leading provider of marine transportation services in the United States. Centerline Logistics operates on the United States West Coast (including Alaska and Hawaii), United States East Coast (including Puerto Rico), the United States Gulf Coast and the Mississippi River System. Services provided include the transportation and storage of petroleum products, tanker escort, ship assist, the transportation of general cargo and rescue towing. Centerline Logistics is the parent company of eight businesses specializing in marine services and a bulk liquids terminal business. Centerline Logistics provides accounting, administrative, human resources, safety and environmental services, and other support to the subsidiary companies.

The Company offers Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and AD&D options to our employees and their eligible dependents after meeting Company requirements. 401(k) options, Disability Insurance, sick pay, vacation pay, 10 paid holidays per calendar year (subject to work schedule) and Healthcare and/or Dependent Care FSAs are also available to our employees after meeting Company requirements. All benefits information may be subject to change based on any current or updated benefit plan year changes and/or Collective Bargaining Agreements.

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity and Drug Free Work place. Pre-employment drug testing is required.


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