ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Licensed Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Shoreline Marine Company

USCG Licensed Captain

Chicago, IL · On-site

$32 - $38/hr

USCG Licensed Captain Seasonal | Spring-November 2026 Position Summary Shoreline Sightseeing is seeking experienced and safety-focused Captains to operate our passenger vessels on the Chicago River ...

Shoreline Marine Company

USCG Licensed Captain

Chicago, IL · On-site

$32 - $38/hr

USCG Licensed Captain Seasonal | Spring-November 2026 Position Summary Shoreline Sightseeing is seeking experienced and safety-focused Captains to operate our passenger vessels on the Chicago River ...

Barton & Gray LLC

USCG Licensed Captain

Sag Harbor, NY · On-site

$60K/yr

Valid USCG Masters captain's license, Near Coastal * Valid USCG Medical Certificate * Marine Radio Operator Permit * CPR and First Aid Certified * Strong experience on vessels of similar size * An ...

Barton & Gray LLC

USCG Licensed Captain

Cos Cob, CT · On-site

$60K/yr

Valid USCG Masters captain's license, Near Coastal * Valid USCG Medical Certificate * Marine Radio Operator Permit * CPR and First Aid Certified * Strong experience on vessels of similar size * An ...

Barton & Gray LLC

USCG Licensed Captain

Oyster Bay, NY · On-site

$60K/yr

Valid USCG Masters captain's license, Near Coastal * Valid USCG Medical Certificate * Marine Radio Operator Permit * CPR and First Aid Certified * Strong experience on vessels of similar size * An ...

Barton & Gray LLC

USCG Licensed Captain

Jersey City, NJ · On-site

$60K/yr

Valid USCG Masters captain's license, Near Coastal * Valid USCG Medical Certificate * Marine Radio Operator Permit * CPR and First Aid Certified * Strong experience on vessels of similar size * An ...

Barton & Gray LLC

USCG Licensed Captain

Nantucket, MA · On-site

$60K/yr

Valid USCG Masters captain's license, Near Coastal * Valid USCG Medical Certificate * Marine Radio Operator Permit * CPR and First Aid Certified * Strong experience on vessels of similar size * An ...

Barton & Gray LLC

USCG Licensed Captain

Norwalk, CT · On-site

$60K/yr

Valid USCG Masters captain's license, Near Coastal * Valid USCG Medical Certificate * Marine Radio Operator Permit * CPR and First Aid Certified * Strong experience on vessels of similar size * An ...

Barton & Gray LLC

USCG Licensed Captain

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K/yr

Valid USCG Masters captain's license, Near Coastal * Valid USCG Medical Certificate * Marine Radio Operator Permit * CPR and First Aid Certified * Strong experience on vessels of similar size * An ...

Capt Andy's

Catamaran Captain

Eleele, HI · On-site

$41 - $46/hr

We are currently seeking a full-time, year-round Licensed Captain to join our fleet. We're looking for a confident and capable leader who brings both seamanship and hospitality to every voyage.

Afton House Inn

100 Ton Licensed Captain

Afton, MN · On-site

$35 - $38/hr

May - October Licensed Captain will operate 2 dinner boats on the St. Croix River for daytime and evening 2-5 hour private and public cruises. Afton Princess - 84 ft. yacht - 100 Ton USCG License ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLicensed Captain Jobs

Licensed Captain information

See salary details

$9

$37

$76

How much do licensed captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for licensed captain in the United States is $37.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $41.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Licensed Captain, you need expert navigation skills, a thorough understanding of maritime laws, and a valid captain’s license such as a USCG Merchant Mariner Credential. Familiarity with vessel management systems, radar and GPS technology, and safety protocols is typically required. Excellent leadership, decision-making, and communication skills help manage crew and maintain passenger safety. These competencies are crucial to ensure safe, efficient vessel operation and compliance with maritime regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by a Licensed Captain when managing a vessel crew?

Licensed Captains often face the challenge of balancing strong leadership with fostering teamwork among crew members from diverse backgrounds. Effective communication is essential, as Captains must clearly convey safety protocols, assignments, and expectations while also resolving conflicts that may arise during long voyages. Additionally, maintaining high morale and motivation, especially during demanding operations or adverse weather, is key to ensuring smooth vessel operations and overall crew safety. Regular training, clear delegation, and supportive leadership can help overcome these challenges.

What is the difference between Licensed Captain vs Marine Engineer?

AspectLicensed CaptainMarine Engineer
Required CredentialsCaptain's license, maritime certificationsEngineering licenses, STCW certifications
Work EnvironmentBridge of vessels, navigation, crew managementEngine room, vessel machinery, technical maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, cruise lines, private yachtsShip operators, maritime service providers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Licensed Captain and a Marine Engineer lies in their roles and certifications. Licensed Captains are responsible for navigation and overall vessel operation, requiring a captain's license. Marine Engineers focus on the technical and mechanical aspects of the vessel, holding engineering licenses. Both roles are essential in maritime operations but serve different functions within the industry.

What are Licensed Captains?

Licensed Captains are professionals who have obtained an official certification or license, typically from a maritime authority such as the U.S. Coast Guard, allowing them to operate and command commercial or recreational vessels. They are responsible for the safe navigation, operation, and management of boats or ships, as well as ensuring compliance with maritime laws and safety regulations. Licensed Captains may work on a variety of vessels, including fishing boats, yachts, ferries, or cargo ships, and must demonstrate extensive knowledge of navigation, safety, and emergency procedures. Obtaining a captain's license usually requires a combination of sea time experience, passing exams, and meeting health and background requirements.
More about Licensed Captain jobs
What cities are hiring for Licensed Captain jobs? Cities with the most Licensed Captain job openings:
What states have the most Licensed Captain jobs? States with the most job openings for Licensed Captain jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Licensed Captain jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Licensed Captain jobs are:
Licensed Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Licensed Captain job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,625 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

Catamaran Captain

Captain Andy's Sailing Adventures

Eleele, HI • On-site

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Join the Crew at Captain Andy's Sailing Adventures

Come be part of a team of passionate, seagoing professionals delivering unforgettable experiences along Kaua?i's breathtaking Na Pali Coast.

Now offering a $2,000 sign-on bonus for all qualified applicants

At Captain Andy's, we specialize in daily ocean adventures; snorkeling, sunset dinner sails, and seasonal whale watching; aboard our beautifully crafted 65' motor-sailing catamarans. We are currently seeking a full-time, year-round Licensed Captain to join our fleet.

We're looking for a confident and capable leader who brings both seamanship and hospitality to every voyage.

Apply