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Full-Time & Part-Time USCG Captain / Marine Operations Team Member

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Full-Time & Part-Time USCG Licensed Captain / Marine Operations Team Member Boats and Fun - North Captiva Island, Florida Love being on the water? Want more than just another captain job? Boats and ...

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Tugboat Captain

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$85 - $120/hr

Coast Guard MOTV licensed Captain with towing endorsements for Western Rivers, Oceans, and/or Near Coastal waters. * Must have a valid TWIC (receipts not accepted). * Must have a valid driver ...

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Tugboat Captain

Lake Charles, LA · Remote

MOTV licensed Captain with towing and endorsements for Western Rivers, Oceans, and/or Near Coastal waters * Must have a valid TWIC (receipts NOT accepted) * Must have a valid DL * Must be able to ...

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Tugboat Captain

Lake Charles, LA · Remote

MOTV licensed Captain with towing and endorsements for Western Rivers, Oceans, and/or Near Coastal waters * Must have a valid TWIC (receipts NOT accepted) * Must have a valid DL * Must be able to ...

Next Gen Logistics

Tugboat Captain

Cocodrie, LA · Remote

MOTV licensed Captain with towing and endorsements for Western Rivers, Oceans, and/or Near Coastal waters * Must have a valid TWIC (receipts NOT accepted) * Must have a valid DL * Must be able to ...

Next Gen Logistics

Tugboat Captain

New Orleans, LA · Remote

MOTV licensed Captain with towing and endorsements for Western Rivers, Oceans, and/or Near Coastal waters * Must have a valid TWIC (receipts NOT accepted) * Must have a valid DL * Must be able to ...

Next Gen Logistics

Tugboat Captain

New Orleans, LA · Remote

MOTV licensed Captain with towing and endorsements for Western Rivers, Oceans, and/or Near Coastal waters * Must have a valid TWIC (receipts NOT accepted) * Must have a valid DL * Must be able to ...

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Licensed Captain information

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$37

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How much do licensed captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 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 is a licensed captain?

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.
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Licensed Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Licensed Captain job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 37% Part Time, and 3% 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.

Tour Boat Captain -Kingston NY

Hudson River Maritime Museum

Kingston, NY • On-site

$27 - $29/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Tour Boat Captain - Kingston NY
The Hudson River Maritime Museum, in Kingston NY, is seeking a licensed captain to run our 44' solar tour vessel, Solaris. Trips that range from 1 to 2 hours are run from our dock on Rondout Creek, in downtown Kingston. Solaris is completely quiet, powered by a single-screw electric motor and accommodates up to 24 passengers . Trips include various creek and river excursions and visits to our 1913 Rondout Lighthouse. Captain is not required to give tours but should be comfortable welcoming passengers and explaining rules and regs to passengers. Trips are scheduled from late morning to after dusk, and various shift opportunities are available, including charters. Season is mid-May through October with potential for additional trips and charters.
Requirements:
  • Min 25-ton capacity captains license
  • Be able to pass initial and random drug tests
  • Previous experience driving tour boats or similar
  • Strong navigational skills and knowledge of local waterways
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills
  • Ability to remain calm under pressure and make quick decisions in emergency situations

Duties:
  • Ensure the safety of passengers and crew members
  • Navigate waterways and follow designated routes
  • Communicate with passengers, crew, and port authorities
  • Monitor weather conditions and make necessary adjustments to the route
  • Adhere to all safety regulations and protocols

Job Type: Part-time, seasonal,1 to 3 days a week as available
Pay: $27 - $29 per hour depending on experience
Supplemental Pay: tips
Please send resumes to: lcline@hrmm.org