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Cruise Ship Security Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Mount Vernon, VA · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Ships. Responsibilities: * Ensure safety and security of passengers, crew, and vessel. * Operate ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Mount Vernon, VA

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Ships. Responsibilities: * Ensure safety and security of passengers, crew, and vessel. * Operate ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr - Sys

Rockville, MD · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

... our national security. For more than six decades, SSP has maintained and upgraded this weapon ... cruise missile system that will be outfitted on some submarines and surface ships. SSP is ...

BAE Systems

Systems Architecture Engineer

Potomac, MD · On-site

$97K - $164K/yr

... our national security. For more than six decades, SSP has maintained and upgraded this weapon ... cruise missile system that will be outfitted on some submarines and surface ships. SSP is ...

BAE Systems

Systems Architecture Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$97K - $164K/yr

... our national security. For more than six decades, SSP has maintained and upgraded this weapon ... cruise missile system that will be outfitted on some submarines and surface ships. SSP is ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr - Sys

Rockville, MD · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

... our national security. For more than six decades, SSP has maintained and upgraded this weapon ... cruise missile system that will be outfitted on some submarines and surface ships. SSP is ...

BAE Systems

Eng Prin - Sys

Rockville, MD · On-site

... our national security. For more than six decades, SSP has maintained and upgraded this weapon ... cruise missile system that will be outfitted on some submarines and surface ships. SSP is ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr Prin - Mod & Sim

Rockville, MD · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

... our national security. For more than six decades, SSP has maintained and upgraded this weapon ... cruise missile system that will be outfitted on some submarines and surface ships. SSP is ...

Pae

Senior Systems Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$104K - $143K/yr

... security and sustainability. Our people apply undaunted curiosity, relentless ambition and ... for Cruiser-Destroyer (CRUDES) platforms and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) baselines. U.S.

Amentum

Senior Systems Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$104K - $143K/yr

... security and sustainability. Our people apply undaunted curiosity, relentless ambition and ... for Cruiser-Destroyer (CRUDES) platforms and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) baselines. U.S.

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All JobsCruise Ship Security JobsCruise Ship Security Jobs in Reston, VA

Cruise Ship Security information

What is a cruise ship security job?

Cruise ship security jobs focus on ensuring safety and security for the passengers and crew of a cruise ship. Your duties and responsibilities may be to patrol decks as a security guard, monitor video surveillance equipment as a surveillance officer, respond to incidents onboard, or screen passengers and crew before embarkation. Senior security personnel, such as a director of security or a guard supervisor, may hire and train security officers and create an incident plan for common security incidents.

What does a cruise ship security officer do?

A cruise ship security officer is responsible for maintaining the safety and security of passengers, crew, and the vessel itself. Their duties include monitoring surveillance systems, conducting security checks, responding to incidents, and enforcing ship policies. They also work to prevent theft, unauthorized access, and handle security emergencies while at sea or in port. Officers often collaborate with local law enforcement during port stops and manage crowd control during events.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cruise ship security officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cruise Ship Security Officer, you need a background in law enforcement or security, knowledge of maritime safety protocols, and often relevant certifications such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping). Familiarity with surveillance systems, access control software, and emergency response procedures is typically required. Strong communication, conflict resolution, and cultural sensitivity are essential soft skills for managing diverse passenger situations. These competencies ensure the safety and security of passengers and crew while maintaining a positive onboard environment.

What are some common challenges faced by cruise ship security personnel while working at sea?

Cruise ship security personnel often face unique challenges, such as managing large, diverse groups of passengers in a confined environment and responding quickly to incidents that may occur onboard or at port. They must remain vigilant against issues like theft, altercations, or unauthorized access, all while providing excellent customer service. Additionally, adapting to long stretches at sea, irregular hours, and working closely with international crew members requires excellent communication skills and adaptability. Security staff also collaborate with ship management and local authorities to ensure the safety of everyone onboard.

What is the difference between Cruise Ship Security vs Marine Security Officer?

AspectCruise Ship SecurityMarine Security Officer
CredentialsSecurity certifications, maritime security trainingMaritime security certifications, vessel security training
Work EnvironmentOnboard cruise ships, passenger areas, ship decksOn ships, ports, maritime facilities
Employer & IndustryCruise lines, hospitality industryMaritime companies, shipping industry

Both roles focus on maritime security but differ mainly in their work environment and employer. Cruise Ship Security primarily protects passengers and crew onboard cruise ships, while Marine Security Officers may work in various maritime settings, including ports and cargo ships. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right security role in the maritime industry.

How much does a cruise ship security make?

Cruise ship security officers typically earn between $2,000 and $4,000 per month, depending on experience, certifications, and the cruise line. Salaries can vary based on the ship's itinerary, the security officer's responsibilities, and the length of contracts, which often include room and board as part of the compensation package.

How to become a cruise ship security guard?

To become a cruise ship security guard, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant security or law enforcement experience, and certifications such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) for maritime safety. Prior experience in security, good communication skills, and the ability to work in a maritime environment are also important. Some positions may require background checks and physical fitness assessments.

Is cruise ship security a good job?

Cruise ship security is a demanding job that involves monitoring passenger and crew safety, often requiring security certifications and the ability to handle emergencies. It offers opportunities for travel and experience in a unique environment, but can involve long hours and time away from home. Whether it is a good job depends on individual preferences for work conditions and career goals.
More about Cruise Ship Security jobs

What are popular job titles related to Cruise Ship Security jobs in Reston, VA?

For Cruise Ship Security jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cruise Ship Security jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Cruise Ship Security jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Cruise Ship Security jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Cruise Ship Security job openings:

Cruise Ship Security jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cruise Ship Security job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Captain

American Cruise Lines

Mount Vernon, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Captain
American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American Cruise Lines cruise along inland and coastal waterways, including the East Coast, Alaska, Pacific Northwest, Great Lakes, Columbia & Snake Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern vessels accommodate 100 to 200 guests designed for safe navigation and exceptional service.
Captains are responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to company and regulatory standards, and representing the company as a professional leader. American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in challenging coastal and river waterways. Captains are meticulous professionals, in service to our guests and as examples to our crews.
Captains enjoy comfortable onboard accommodations and chef prepared meals. American Cruise Lines operates our own bridge simulator, enabling rigorous recurrent training and development focused on critical decision-making and advanced piloting skills. American Cruise Lines recruits and retains the best professional mariners in the industry.
At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values-Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America's Story on the Finest American Ships.
Responsibilities:
  • Ensure safety and security of passengers, crew, and vessel.
  • Operate the vessel in compliance with company and regulatory standards.
  • Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring.
  • Conduct daily inspections of all vessel spaces.
  • Supervise, lead, and develop deck officers.
  • Oversee Shipboard Engineer.
  • Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers.
  • Support hotel and culinary teams in delivering five-star guest service.
  • Maintain logs, reports, and administrative records.
  • Provide visible leadership through announcements, rounds, and guest interaction.

Work Schedule:
  • Typical March through November Cruise Season: 6 weeks on / 3 weeks off or 4 weeks on / 4 weeks off. Additional work periods may be possible during winter months aboard the few vessels operating or repositioning year-round.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.

Qualifications:
  • U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Captain experience on coastal and river waterways: min 2yrs, desired 5yrs with Z-drive experience.
  • Excellent communication skills and team-building skills.
  • Pre-employment drug test and continual participation in random testing.
  • Great Lakes Captain: Route familiarization and recency in all or several areas including: St. Lawrence Seaway, Welland Canal, St. Mary's River, and U.S. port routes in Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake Huron, and Lake Michigan.
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.

Essential Functions:
  • Ships experience forces from wind, waves, and currents, prompting them to exhibit six distinct motions known as ship motions. The six motions are surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch, and yaw. This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion.
  • Ability to work around 12 hours per day.
  • Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening, and passing through a 20" diameter hatch.
  • Ability to stand for your entire shift.
  • Ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to frequently bend, squat and reach.
  • Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to use stairs frequently.

Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive daily rate.
  • Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match.
  • Access to advanced simulator-based training.
  • Covered Expenses: American Cruise Lines provides travel, room and board, uniforms, and training.

Applicant Acknowledgment
By proceeding to apply for the above position, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of the job position for which I am applying, I agree that it accurately reflects the essential functions of the position, and I represent that I can complete the essential functions of the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
American Cruise Lines is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ‎American Cruise Lines bases all employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual ‎qualifications without regard to protected characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin and citizenship, age (40 and over), disability (including perceived disability), generic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. ‎This policy applies to all aspects of employment and employment decisions, including, but not limited to, ‎hiring, selection, job assignment, training, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access ‎to benefits.
*Job sites across the nation.
This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position and such duties and responsibilities may change without notice.

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