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Licensed Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Captain

HI · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

A valid USCG license * Strong interpersonal and communication skills * A passion for delivering ... Current USCG Captain's Credential: * Master 100 Ton Near Coastal with Sailing Endorsement (required ...

A valid USCG license * Strong interpersonal and communication skills * A passion for delivering ... Current USCG Captain's Credential: * Master 100 Ton Near Coastal with Sailing Endorsement (required ...

Captain

New Bedford, MA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Desired Background: * 100 Ton Master's license * TWIC * 1st Aid & CPR is helpful * Basic computer skills * Qualified candidates will have a minimum of 2 years of recent captain experience Pre ...

Captain

New Bedford, MA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Desired Background: * 100 Ton Master's license * TWIC * 1st Aid & CPR is helpful * Basic computer skills * Qualified candidates will have a minimum of 2 years of recent captain experience Pre ...

Captain

New Bedford, MA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Desired Background: * 100 Ton Master's license * TWIC * 1st Aid & CPR is helpful * Basic computer skills * Qualified candidates will have a minimum of 2 years of recent captain experience Pre ...

Captain

Juneau, AK · On-site

$30 - $39/hr

Experience with hospitality and navigating Southeast Alaska waters preferred, USCG License required. Essential Duties & Responsibilities for Captain Conduct tours as directed according to ...

Captain

Juneau, AK · On-site

$30 - $39/hr

Experience with hospitality and navigating Southeast Alaska waters preferred, USCG License required. Essential Duties & Responsibilities for Captain Conduct tours as directed according to ...

The Captain must set the watch standing schedule for the crew, ensuring that no licensed wheelman works more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period. * The Captain must post a station bill and ensure ...

Requires USCG license Unlimited Master . Daily 5-hour cruises. Flexible schedule. Home every night. Will assist relocation of eligible candidate. * Boat captains are responsible for checking the ...

Requires USCG license Unlimited Master . Daily 5-hour cruises. Flexible schedule. Home every night. Will assist relocation of eligible candidate. * Boat captains are responsible for checking the ...

Job Captain

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Job Captain Full-Time Los Angeles, Irvine Salary: $70,000 - $90,000 Annually Location: Irvine, Los ... Licensed Architect in California or actively pursuing ARE licensure * Experience coordinating ...

Captain

Miami, FL · On-site

CAPTAIN A qualified Captain always serves as Pilot in Command (PIC) of 21 Air flights. It may ... Keeps current and licensed in all respects relating to the flight(s), domestic and international ...

Showing results 41-60

Licensed Captain information

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$9

$37

$76

How much do licensed captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 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 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.
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:
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.

Tugboat Captain

Next Gen Logistics

Cocodrie, LA • Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Tugboat Captain


YOUR COMPASS TO SUCCESS


Your New Company:


At NGL Companies we are committed to workplace safety. We are a trusted maritime transportation, construction and logistics company providing our services on both land and sea.


We are seeking qualified applicants who are focused on the safe operation and navigation of a 900 HP Lugger tugboat vessel. The vessel is working for our client in Chauvin, La and our basic rotation is 28/14. The vessel’s daily 12-hour operations include pushing a crane barge to & from drilling locations in the shallow water rigs. The vessel typically pushes one barge, and at times may push two, depending on the work involved. All work is done in relation to assist the crews with the maintenance that is needed by our client. The tugboat captain will be responsible for managing the crew members and ensuring they are completing their required duties.


ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES:


  • Safe and efficient operation of the vessel and support equipment.
  • Implementing the safety and environmental policy of the Company, motivating the crew in the execution of that policy, issuing orders in a clear and concise manner and reviewing safety and pollution prevention activities.
  • Reporting defects to the Company and other matters with implications for safe operations or pollution risk and which require the assistance of the Company.
  • Appraising and coordinating on-board training requirements with the Company.
  • Ensuring that all safety information is kept in date and available to all members of the crew at all times.
  • Review of on-board contingency plans and ship procedures and reporting any deficiencies to the company.
  • Reporting non-conformities, accidents involving personnel or plant and hazardous situations to the Company.
  • Requesting assistance from the Company as may be deemed necessary to ensure safe and pollution-free operation of the ship.
  • Provide employee scheduling information to the crew.
  • Maintain the vessel budget and help maximize cost efficiency as directed
  • Complete required log entries and maintain radio watch as required
  • Give assignments and direction to the mate and/or lead deckhand


QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:


  • The minimum qualifications and experience required are:
  • Must have experience as a U.S.C.G. 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 work in all types of weather conditions
  • Must be able to carry, push/pull and/or lift materials weighing upwards of 75lbs
  • Maintain the vessel budget and help maximize cost efficiency as directed
  • Complete required log entries and maintain radio watch as required
  • Give assignments and direction to the mate and/or lead deckhand
  • Ability to meet USCG physical examination requirements


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:


  • The Tugboat Captain must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable workplace accommodation.
  • The individual must also be able to wear and properly utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to work or visit within areas where it is required.
  • Walking, stepping, climbing, or otherwise moving from one location on the job site to another, which may be of varying heights and access parameters.


What you will get in return:


  • Opportunity to grow with an industry leader
  • Great benefits plan (Medical, Dental, Vision)
  • 401K with match


COMPETITIVE SALARY COMMENSURATE WITH EXPERIENCE AVAILABLE TO QUALIFIED CANDIDATES. EMPLOYMENT OFFERS ARE CONTINGENT UPON A REVIEW OF REFERENCES, SATISFACTORY COMPLETION OF A DRUG SCREEN, AND ANALYSIS OF FULL BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS.


Next Generation Logistics is an equal-opportunity employer. Next Generation Logistics does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business need