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Entry Level Boat Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We're looking for an entry level deckhand to join our skilled boat crew. As a deckhand at Brennan ... Deckhand Responsibilities As a member of the Brennan crew, you'll report to the mate/pilot and ...

We're looking for an entry level deckhand to join our skilled boat crew. As a deckhand at Brennan ... Deckhand Responsibilities As a member of the Brennan crew, you'll report to the mate/pilot and ...

Entry Level Police Officer

Gresham, OR · On-site

$84K - $108K/yr

K-9 * sUAS Pilots and DFR (drone as first responder) * Explosive Detection Unit (EDU) * Rapid ... Boat, windsurf or hike in the scenic Columbia River Gorge, also less than an hour away * Explore ...

Dock Hand

Page, AZ · On-site

$16/hr

... Entry Level Description POSITION TITLE: Dockhand DEPARTMENT: APEX SALARY RANGE: $15.00 REPORTS TO ... Provide chase boat assistance for pilots and mechanics; * Securing water, propane, battery charging ...

SWAT Crisis Negotiation K-9 sUAS Pilots and DFR (drone as first responder) Explosive Detection Unit ... Hood, located less than an hour away Boat, windsurf or hike in the scenic Columbia River Gorge ...

Entry Level Boat Pilot information

See salary details

$54.5K

$144.5K

$270K

How much do entry level boat pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level boat pilot in the United States is $144,531.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $230,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Boat Pilot vs Entry Level Marine Deckhand?

AspectEntry Level Boat PilotEntry Level Marine Deckhand
Required CertificationsBasic boating licenses, safety trainingSTCW certification, safety training
Work EnvironmentOperating boats, navigation tasksDeck maintenance, cargo handling
Employer & Industry UsageMaritime transport, fishing, tourismShipping companies, cruise lines, fishing
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Boat Pilots and Entry Level Marine Deckhands often share similar certifications and work environments within the maritime industry. While boat pilots focus on navigation and operating vessels, deckhands assist with maintenance and cargo. Both roles serve in maritime transport, fishing, or tourism sectors, making them common comparison points for job seekers entering the maritime workforce.

Can I work on a yacht with no experience?

Entry level boat pilot positions typically require some boating knowledge and safety training, but prior experience is not always necessary. Completing relevant certifications such as a boating safety course and gaining basic navigation skills can help qualify for entry-level roles. Employers often provide on-the-job training for new hires.

How do you become a boat pilot?

To become an entry-level boat pilot, you typically need to obtain a maritime license or certification, such as a Merchant Mariner Credential or a state-issued boating license, which involves passing written exams and demonstrating navigation skills. Gaining experience through on-the-water training or apprenticeships is also important, along with developing knowledge of safety protocols and local waterways.

What are the best entry level pilot jobs?

Entry level boat pilot jobs typically include positions such as deckhand or assistant pilot on commercial vessels, ferries, or tugboats. These roles often require basic maritime skills, a valid mariner's license or certification, and the ability to work in various weather conditions. Gaining experience on smaller boats or through maritime training programs can improve prospects for advancement to pilot positions.

How much money do boat pilots make?

Entry-level boat pilots typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of vessels they operate. With experience and certifications, salaries can increase, and some boat pilots working in specialized or high-demand areas may earn over $70,000 per year.
More about Entry Level Boat Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Boat Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Boat Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Boat Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Boat Pilot jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Boat Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Boat Pilot jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Boat Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $144,531 per year, or $69.5 per hour.
Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels (88K)

Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels (88K)

U.S. Army

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


United States Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 486 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Enlist as a Soldier into the United States Army and As a Watercraft Operator (88K), you’ll be responsible for navigation, cargo operations, and supervising other Soldiers on Army watercraft. As part of the piloting team, you’ll train in the basics of seamanship and vessel operations, using electronic positioning systems, handheld navigation devices, and traditional watch standing procedures. You’ll learn boat handling techniques, how to dock and undock vessels, drop and weigh anchor, interpret code signal flags, and send and receive messages via radio, beacon, and signal flag. Since safety is such an important part of this job, you’ll also learn emergency water survival, how to operate lifeboats, shipboard firefighting, and other emergency procedures. This is not a civilian contractor position.  
No experience necessary. Position is entry level.  
REQUIREMENTS:  
  • A U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Green Card.
  • 17 to 34 Years Old.
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Meet Tattoo Guidelines.
  • No Major Law Violations.
  • No Medical Concerns.
TESTING & CERTIFICATIONS:  
  • 42 Nationally Recognized Certifications Available.
  • 10 weeks of Basic Training.
  • 6 weeks of Advanced Individual Training.
  • 99 ASVAB Score: Mechanical Maintenance (MM).
SKILLS YOU'LL LEARN:  
  • Seamanship & Vessel Operations.
  • Electronics & Navigational Systems.
  • Maintenance & Repairs.
BENEFITS:  
Financial Benefits:  
  • Salary and Bonuses: Competitive base pay with potential for bonuses, including enlistment bonuses and re-enlistment bonuses.  
  • Retirement Plan: Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) similar to a 401(k), and a pension plan for those who serve 20 years or more.  
  • Special Pays: Extra pay for hazardous duty, special skills, and deployment.  
Healthcare:  
  • Medical Coverage: Comprehensive medical care for soldiers and their families through TRICARE.  
  • Dental and Vision: Access to dental and vision care services.  
Education:  
  • Tuition Assistance: Financial support for college courses while on active duty.  
  • GI Bill: Benefits for education and training programs, including the Post- 9/11 GI Bill.  
  • Student Loan Repayment: Assistance in repaying student loans.  
Housing and Living:  
  • Housing Allowance: Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) to cover the cost of housing.  
  • On-Base Housing: Access to housing on military installations.  
  • Commissary and Exchange: Discounts on groceries and goods at military stores.  
Career and Training:  
  • Professional Development: Opportunities for leadership training and career advancement.  
  • Skill Training: Technical and tactical training in various fields.  
Family Support:  
  • Family Programs: Support services for families, including counseling and childcare.  
  • Relocation Assistance: Help with moving costs and finding housing.  
Retirement and Veterans Benefits:  
  • Pension: Lifetime monthly pension after 20 years of service.  
  • VA Benefits: Access to Department of Veterans Affairs benefits, including healthcare and home loans.  
Recreation and Leisure:  
  • Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR): Access to recreational facilities, sports programs, and leisure activities.  

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About US Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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