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Container Ship Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rust-Oleum

Material Handler (Raw)

Pleasant Prairie, WI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

After all, our founder, sea captain Robert Fergusson, didn't particularly set out to invent rust ... Assemble product containers and crates, using hand tools and precut lumber. * Load and unload ship ...

Rust-Oleum

Material Handler (Comp)

Pleasant Prairie, WI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

After all, our founder, sea captain Robert Fergusson, didn't particularly set out to invent rust ... Assemble product containers and crates, using hand tools and precut lumber. * Load and unload ship ...

Rust-Oleum

Material Handler (Raw)

Pleasant Prairie, WI

$16 - $19.25/hr

After all, our founder, sea captain Robert Fergusson, didn't particularly set out to invent rust ... Assemble product containers and crates, using hand tools and precut lumber. * Load and unload ship ...

Kop-Coat, Inc.

Material Handler (Comp)

Pleasant Prairie, WI

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

After all, our founder, sea captain Robert Fergusson, didn't particularly set out to invent rust ... Assemble product containers and crates, using hand tools and precut lumber. * Load and unload ship ...

Rust-Oleum

Material Handler (Raw)

Pleasant Prairie, WI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

After all, our founder, sea captain Robert Fergusson, didn't particularly set out to invent rust ... Assemble product containers and crates, using hand tools and precut lumber. * Load and unload ship ...

Kop-Coat, Inc.

Material Handler (Raw)

Pleasant Prairie, WI

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

After all, our founder, sea captain Robert Fergusson, didn't particularly set out to invent rust ... Assemble product containers and crates, using hand tools and precut lumber. * Load and unload ship ...

Rust-Oleum

Material Handler (Comp)

Pleasant Prairie, WI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

After all, our founder, sea captain Robert Fergusson, didn't particularly set out to invent rust ... Assemble product containers and crates, using hand tools and precut lumber. * Load and unload ship ...

Rust-Oleum

Material Handler (Comp)

Pleasant Prairie, WI

$16 - $19.25/hr

After all, our founder, sea captain Robert Fergusson, didn't particularly set out to invent rust ... Assemble product containers and crates, using hand tools and precut lumber. * Load and unload ship ...

Baranof Holdings

Seafood Processor

Mekoryuk, AK · On-site

$17.50 - $19.75/hr

... Captain of the vessel sees fit. Shifts are 16+ hours per day, seven (7) days a week. Duties may ... Packaging up product after 1st freezing process and stored down in the ship's hold securely.

Baranof Holdings

Seafood Processor

Mekoryuk, AK · On-site

$17.50 - $19.75/hr

... Captain of the vessel sees fit. Shifts are 16+ hours per day, seven (7) days a week. Duties may ... Packaging up product after 1st freezing process and stored down in the ship's hold securely.

Rust-Oleum

Maint Mechanic - Day Shift

Somerset, NJ

$35 - $40/hr

After all, in the beginning, our founder, sea captain Robert Fergusson, didn't particularly care ... When he founded our company in 1921, he just wanted to keep his ship intact and stumbled upon a ...

Kop-Coat, Inc.

Maint Mechanic - Day Shift

Somerset, NJ

$35 - $40/hr

After all, in the beginning, our founder, sea captain Robert Fergusson, didn't particularly care ... When he founded our company in 1921, he just wanted to keep his ship intact and stumbled upon a ...

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Container Ship Captain information

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$15

$26

$47

How much do container ship captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for container ship captain in the United States is $26.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a container ship captain do?

A Container Ship Captain is responsible for commanding and navigating large cargo vessels that transport containers across oceans and seas. Their duties include overseeing the crew, ensuring the safety of the ship and its cargo, complying with international maritime regulations, and plotting safe and efficient routes. They also handle communications with port authorities, manage ship operations, and respond to emergencies. The Captain holds ultimate authority and accountability for everything that happens on board the vessel.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a container ship captain?

To thrive as a Container Ship Captain, you need extensive maritime knowledge, a valid master's license (such as STCW certification), and several years of seafaring experience in progressively responsible roles. Mastery of navigation systems, ship management software, and compliance with international maritime regulations is essential. Excellent leadership, decision-making, and communication skills are crucial for managing crew and responding effectively to emergencies. These abilities ensure the safe and efficient operation of large vessels, protect cargo, and uphold maritime safety standards.

What are some of the key challenges a container ship captain faces during long voyages?

Container Ship Captains often deal with challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, complex navigation through busy shipping lanes, and strict adherence to international maritime regulations. Effective communication with a diverse crew and coordination with port authorities are essential for smooth operations. Additionally, captains are responsible for the safety of cargo, ship maintenance, and timely delivery, all while managing fatigue and ensuring crew well-being during extended periods at sea.

What is the difference between Container Ship Captain vs Cargo Ship Officer?

AspectContainer Ship CaptainCargo Ship Officer
CredentialsSTCW certification, maritime license, extensive experienceSTCW certification, maritime license, relevant experience
Work EnvironmentBridge of large container ships, international watersBridge of cargo ships, various ports and waters
ResponsibilitiesOverall ship operation, navigation, safety, crew managementNavigation, cargo handling, safety procedures, assisting captain

The Container Ship Captain oversees the entire vessel's operation, navigation, and safety, requiring advanced certifications and extensive experience. The Cargo Ship Officer supports the captain with navigation and cargo management, often with similar credentials but typically less seniority. Both roles operate in similar environments and are essential in maritime logistics, but the captain holds ultimate authority and responsibility.

Are container ship captains in demand?

Container ship captains are in steady demand due to global trade growth and the need for experienced maritime professionals. The role requires certifications such as a Master Mariner license and strong navigation skills, and employment opportunities are influenced by international shipping industry trends and economic conditions.

How do you become a container ship captain?

To become a container ship captain, one must typically start as a deck officer, gain experience at sea, and obtain necessary certifications such as a Master Mariner license. This process involves completing maritime education, accumulating several years of sea service, and passing licensing exams to demonstrate navigation and safety skills.

How hard is it to get a job on a container ship?

Securing a job as a container ship captain requires extensive maritime experience, relevant certifications such as a Master Mariner license, and familiarity with navigation and safety protocols. The hiring process is competitive and often involves multiple steps, including training, sea time, and passing exams. Candidates typically need several years of experience at sea before qualifying for captain positions.

How much does a container ship captain make?

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

What cities are hiring for Container Ship Captain jobs?

Cities with the most Container Ship Captain job openings:

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

For Container Ship Captain jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Container 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 $54,541 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Material Handler (Raw)

Pleasant Prairie, WI • On-site

Rust-Oleum
Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Rust-Oleumexternal

$16 - $19.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Rust-Oleum rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


Solving challenges is the very foundation of who we are. After all, our founder, sea captain Robert Fergusson, didn't particularly set out to invent rust preventive paint. He just wanted to keep his ship intact and stumbled upon a valuable solution. Today, that discovery is Rust-Oleum Corporation.
Founded in 1921, the same passion that drove the Captain to create the world's first rust-preventative paint still drives us today. When we see a problem, we work diligently until we've perfected a solution, which has led to some of the most cutting edge, durable and innovative products in the industry. Our creative and talented team of over 2,000 people across every corner of the world help us remain the global leader in protective paints and coatings for both home and industry.
The primary result expected from the Material Handler is to efficiently, accurately, and safely process raw materials, and components, and distribute materials to the appropriate department by verifying and maintaining documentation on incoming and outgoing shipments and transporting raw materials, components, and supplies to appropriate departments.
Typical tasks for this position include (but are not limited to) the following:
  • Deliver or route materials to departments, using work devices, such as handtruck, conveyor, or sorting bins.
  • Attach identifying tags to containers, or mark them with identifying information.
  • Read work orders or receive oral instructions to determine work assignments and material and equipment needs.
  • Record numbers of units handled and moved, using daily production sheets or work tickets.
  • Move freight, stock, and other materials to and from storage and production areas, loading docks, delivery vehicles, ships, and containers, by hand or using trucks, tractors, and other equipment.
  • Sort cargo before loading and unloading.
  • Assemble product containers and crates, using hand tools and precut lumber.
  • Load and unload ship cargo, using winches and other hoisting devices.
  • Pack containers and re-pack damaged containers.
  • Carry needed tools and supplies from storage or trucks, and return them after use.
Required Experience:
  • 1-3 years of related experience.
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
  • Aptitude with SAP/WMS System.
  • Appropriate forklift and comparable equipment operating skills.

Shift: 6pm-6:15am; 2-2-3 shift rotation (continuous operations schedule)
From big benefits to small, we take care of our associates! After 30 days of employment, you will be eligible for a benefits package that includes medical, dental, life, disability and business travel insurance, flexible spending accounts, EAP, stock purchases and vacation/sick days/parental leave. We also offer a 401(k) plan after three months of employment. Associates are vested in the RPM Pension plan after completing five years of service. Rust-Oleum offers (9.5) paid holidays and (2) floating holidays per year. You are also eligible to earn two weeks of vacation on an annualized basis
Rust-Oleum is an equal opportunity employer. Employment selection and related decisions are made without regard to sex, race, age, disability, religion, national origin, color, or any other protected class.
Internal Applicants: If you have been in your current position for one year (unless waived by your Manager), and meet the position requirements, you are welcome to apply for this position. Please apply in Oracle on Requisition 15741 under 'Current Jobs'.

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