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Docking Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fournier is the President of Portland Tugboat and a state-licensed docking pilot. He has docked ships on the East, West, and Gulf Coasts, and has led tractor-tug training exercises with SeaRiver ...

Fournier is the President of Portland Tugboat and a state-licensed docking pilot. He has docked ships on the East, West, and Gulf Coasts, and has led tractor-tug training exercises with SeaRiver ...

Fournier is the President of Portland Tugboat and a state-licensed docking pilot. He has docked ships on the East, West, and Gulf Coasts, and has led tractor-tug training exercises with SeaRiver ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring. * Conduct daily inspections of all ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring. * Conduct daily inspections of all ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring. * Conduct daily inspections of all ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring. * Conduct daily inspections of all ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring. * Conduct daily inspections of all ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring. * Conduct daily inspections of all ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring. * Conduct daily inspections of all ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring. * Conduct daily inspections of all ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring. * Conduct daily inspections of all ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring. * Conduct daily inspections of all ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring. * Conduct daily inspections of all ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring. * Conduct daily inspections of all ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring. * Conduct daily inspections of all ...

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Docking Pilot information

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$48K

$87.1K

$133K

How much do docking pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for docking pilot in the United States is $87,144.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a docking pilot?

Docking pilots are specialized maritime professionals responsible for safely guiding ships into and out of ports, harbors, or docks. They work closely with the ship's captain and crew to maneuver large vessels in tight or crowded waterways, ensuring the ship avoids obstacles and follows port regulations. Docking pilots use their in-depth knowledge of local waters, tides, and currents to direct ship movements, often boarding vessels before arrival to provide hands-on assistance. Their expertise is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring efficient port operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a docking pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Docking Pilot, you need extensive maritime knowledge, a valid pilotage license, and experience navigating various vessel types in restricted waters. Proficiency with navigation systems, radar, and communication tools is essential, along with ongoing certifications in maritime safety and regulations. Exceptional situational awareness, decision-making, and clear communication skills help you work effectively with ship crews and port authorities. These skills ensure safe, efficient vessel maneuvering, preventing accidents and ensuring smooth port operations.

What are some common challenges a docking pilot faces during ship maneuvers, and how are they addressed?

Docking Pilots often work under tight schedules, unpredictable weather, and changing tidal conditions, which can make ship maneuvers particularly challenging. Effective communication with the ship's crew and port personnel is essential for ensuring safety and precision during docking and undocking. To address these challenges, Docking Pilots rely on extensive local knowledge, real-time weather updates, and teamwork to adapt quickly to dynamic situations. Ongoing training and simulation exercises also help pilots refine their skills and stay prepared for complex maneuvers.

What is the difference between Docking Pilot vs Tugboat Operator?

AspectDocking PilotTugboat Operator
CredentialsMaritime licenses, pilot certificationsMaritime licenses, vessel operation certifications
Work EnvironmentHarbor, port, or terminal areasOpen water, harbor, port
Industry UsagePort authorities, shipping companiesShipping lines, port services
Job FocusGuiding ships during docking/undockingOperating tugboats to assist ships

Docking Pilots and Tugboat Operators both work in maritime port environments, often collaborating during ship arrivals and departures. Docking Pilots specialize in guiding ships safely into port using their navigational expertise, while Tugboat Operators control tugboats that assist ships in maneuvering. Both roles require maritime certifications and are essential for port operations, but they focus on different aspects of vessel movement.

How much do docking pilots get paid?

Docking pilots typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the vessels they assist with. They often work in maritime environments requiring specialized skills and certifications, and pay may include overtime and hazard pay.

How to become a docking pilot?

To become a docking pilot, candidates typically need a maritime or engineering background, relevant certifications such as a pilot license, and experience in ship handling and navigation. Training involves on-the-job learning, safety protocols, and familiarity with port operations and docking equipment.

What states have the most Docking Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Docking Pilot jobs include:

Infographic showing various Docking Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,144 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Diego Garcia: Harbor Pilot (Contingency) with Security Clearance

Garcia, CO • On-site


KBR
IT Services • 10K+ employees

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

143rd of 450 rated engineering

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Title:
Diego Garcia: Harbor Pilot (Contingency) Belong, Connect, Grow, with KBR! Program Summary KBR provides full-spectrum base operations support to Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia, a remote location in the British Indian Ocean Territory. Our robust supply chain ensures on-time delivery of mission-critical supplies, and our team conducts essential port and airfield operations in this geographically complex environment. The KBR team is over 1,000 people strong, providing not only life support services such as water treatment, electricity, and telecom/antenna maintenance, but also quality of life services like Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) and an award-winning dining facility. Job Summary The Harbor Pilot is responsible for the safe and efficient navigation, piloting, docking, and scheduling of all naval, civilian, and commercial vessels operating within Diego Garcia Harbor and surrounding waters. This role serves as a key liaison between military and civilian stakeholders and ensures harbor operations fully support mission-critical activities. Minimum of three (3) years' experience as an Unlimited Tonnage Harbor and Docking Pilot or Chief Harbor Pilot. Roles and Responsibilities * Prepare and coordinate the Daily Harbor Schedule for review and approval by the Port Operations Officer.
* Pilot U.S. Navy, Military Sealift Command, civilian, and foreign-flagged vessels of all classes and unlimited tonnage into and out of Diego Garcia Harbor.
* Operate in all environmental conditions, including darkness, reduced visibility, strong currents, heavy rain, and gale-force winds.
* Direct and coordinate the simultaneous operation of multiple tugboats, pusher boats, and support craft during vessel maneuvering, docking, unmooring, and anchoring.
* Consult nautical charts, maps, tide tables, weather reports, and navigation systems to determine safe vessel movements.
* Set vessel courses and speeds using expert knowledge of local waters, including depths, tides, currents, weather patterns, and navigational hazards.
* Ensure vessel movements avoid reefs, shoals, and other hazards by utilizing navigational aids such as sector lights, channel markers, buoys, and land-based navigation aids.
* Advise ship Masters on local harbor rules, safety procedures, and lagoon customs requirements.
* Supervise naval and civilian personnel engaged in docking, berthing, and mooring of vessels, floating docks, cranes, and barges.
* Serve as the primary liaison with:
* Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia
* Commander Squadron Two
* Military Sealift Command
* Tenant and supported commands
* Coordinate all harbor movements of ships, small craft, cargo barges, fuel barges, and LCM operations to ensure uninterrupted mission support.
* Act as Docking Master, developing and executing vessel-specific mooring plans for Deep Draft Wharf and POL Fueling Pier operations.
* Determine and supervise proper placement of pier fenders, docking camels, and mooring configurations based on vessel size and requirements. BASIC JOB QUALIFICATIONS: (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): * Must be U.S. citizens.
* Must possess Special Background Investigation (SBI), secret clearance.
* Must be retired U.S. Navy, E-7 or above is preferred.
* Superior leadership and management skills.
* Must hold a valid driver's license. JOB SPECIFICATIONS: SPECIAL CERTIFICATIONS OR TRAINING * Must be properly licensed by the USCG (or other recognized regulatory body) and be Unlimited Tonnage rated or have prior Navy experience with NEC 0215 qualifications and have had an exemplary record as a Navy Pilot.
* U.S. Navy Harbor and Docking Pilot (QM-0215)
* Submit qualifications to Contracting Officer Representative (COR) for approval prior to hiring. EDUCATION: * Bachelor's Degree in Maritime Studies (BS in Marine Transportation, Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture) or other related maritime fields, based on a four-year course of study from an accredited university or college. KBR Benefits * KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development. Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together. KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998


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Hours and flexibility

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