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Live Aboard Boat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PBSGC

Deckhand

Baton Rouge, LA

Position Summary PBSG is seeking a Deckhand to join the crew of the live-aboard Dredge Wallace ... boat/skiff operations as directed Maintenance & General Labor • Chipping and painting, and other ...

Illinois Marine Towing

Deckhand

Joliet, IL · On-site

The work schedule consists of 21 days on and 21 days off (Line Boat) or 14 days on and 7 days off ... and live aboard their assigned vessel for extended periods of time. The majority of duties ...

PBSGC Marine Group

Deckhand

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

Position Summary PBSG is seeking a Deckhand to join the crew of the live-aboard Dredge Wallace ... boat/skiff operations as directed Maintenance & General Labor • Chipping and painting, and other ...

PBSGC Marine Group

Deckhand

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

Position Summary PBSG is seeking a Deckhand to join the crew of the live-aboard Dredge Wallace ... boat/skiff operations as directed Maintenance & General Labor • Chipping and painting, and other ...

Illinois Marine Towing

Deckhand

Inland, NE

The work schedule consists of 21 days on and 21 days off (Line Boat) or 14 days on and 7 days off ... and live aboard their assigned vessel for extended periods of time. The majority of duties ...

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Live Aboard Boat information

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How much do live aboard boat jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for live aboard boat in the United States is $20.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Live Aboard Boat job?

A Live Aboard Boat job involves living on a boat full-time while working in a specific role, such as crew member, captain, chef, or maintenance staff. These jobs are common on charter boats, yachts, research vessels, and dive boats. Responsibilities vary depending on the position but often include vessel upkeep, guest services, navigation, and safety procedures. Living aboard means adapting to a small living space, working long hours, and being comfortable with ocean conditions. Many consider it a rewarding lifestyle with travel opportunities and unique experiences.

Can I work on a ship with no experience?

Live aboard boat jobs often require little to no prior experience, especially for entry-level positions such as deckhands or steward roles. Basic skills like safety awareness, physical fitness, and willingness to learn are important, and on-the-job training is common. Certifications like STCW may be required for certain roles, but many employers provide training for new hires.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for someone working in a live aboard boat position?

In a live aboard boat role, your daily responsibilities often include performing routine vessel maintenance, monitoring weather and navigational information, and ensuring the onboard systems and safety equipment are functioning correctly. You may also handle meal preparation, cleaning, and managing supplies, along with responding to any unexpected technical or safety issues that arise. Collaboration with other crew members or guests is common, and flexibility is required as priorities can shift quickly based on environmental or operational demands. This variety ensures the vessel is always ready for use and safe for all aboard.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Live Aboard Boat position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Live Aboard Boat crew member or caretaker, you need strong seamanship, vessel maintenance abilities, and basic navigation knowledge, usually supported by hands-on experience and sometimes relevant marine certifications. Familiarity with marine engines, electrical systems, and safety equipment, as well as certifications like the US Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential or STCW, are often required. Excellent problem-solving, adaptability, and interpersonal communication skills help you manage responsibilities and coordinate with other crew or guests onboard. These skills are vital for ensuring the safety, functionality, and comfort of those living and working aboard a vessel for extended periods.

How do I get into working on a boat?

To work as a live aboard boat crew member, gaining relevant skills such as navigation, maintenance, and safety procedures is essential. Starting with certifications like CPR, first aid, and maritime safety courses can improve employability, and gaining experience through volunteering or entry-level positions helps build a maritime resume.

What boat job pays the most?

The highest-paying boat jobs often include captain or master mariner roles, which require extensive experience and certifications such as a USCG license. These positions can earn six-figure salaries, especially on large commercial vessels or luxury yachts. Specialized skills in navigation, safety, and vessel management are essential for these high-paying roles.

Can you live on a boat legally?

Living aboard a boat is legal in many areas, but regulations vary by jurisdiction and marina policies. It often requires compliance with local zoning laws, registration, and safety standards, as well as proper mooring arrangements. Ensuring the boat meets all legal requirements is essential for lawful long-term residence onboard.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Live Aboard Boat jobs? The most popular types of Live Aboard Boat jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Live Aboard Boat jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Live Aboard Boat jobs are:
Live Aboard Boat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Live Aboard Boat job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,999 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Fleet Boat Captain - (non live-aboard)

Ingram Barge Company

Channelview, TX

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Ingram Marine Group encompasses our operating units involved in transporting bulk commodities on America's inland waterways, delivering fuel and supplies to the towing industry, and providing a ship anchorage in Louisiana. As the leading carrier, we operate a fleet of barges that transport aggregates, grain, fertilizer, coal, ores, alloys, steel products, chemicals, and other products.

We're committed to being the best at whatever we do. We're continuously growing, adapting, and responding, and we're successful because of the outstanding hard work and creative energy of our associates.

Job Description

Before applying please note:

Must have Drivers License  
Before applying, please take into consideration that this is not a live aboard position. Due to daily commuting requirements, we are seeking applicants that live around 45 minutes of Channelview, TX

Schedule: 14/7

What you'll be doing:

  • Practicing safe crew, vessel and tow operation using Ingram safety systems and policies
  • Participating in safety drills and audits
  • Supervising the Mate and Deckhands in consultation with the Captain and shore-based leadership
  • Assuring safe and efficient vessel navigation through compliance with the "rules of the road"
  • Practicing good seamanship and boat handling skills
  • Complying and ensuring the crew is complying with USCG and environmental laws and regulations
  • Demonstrating felt leadership
  • Delegating vessel responsibilities, duties and tasks considering crew members position and ability
  • Assisting with crew evaluations
  • Assisting in training of deck crew
  • Navigating barges safely to and from docks on the Houston ship channel
  • Navigating barges in close quarter situations to include headline operations
  • Performing other related duties as assigned
Qualifications
  • Demonstration of the Ingram Way
  • Ability to uphold Ingram's high safety standards
  • Proven leadership abilities
  • Working knowledge of fleet operations
  • Ability to respond quickly in an unexpected circumstance
  • Ability to apply basic critical thinking and decision-making skills to tow building and locking
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to demonstrate teamwork and acceptance of diversity
  • Strong communication skills with all levels within the organization
  • Intermediate skills with MS Outlook
  • Possess High School Diploma or GED equivalent
  • Possess a valid Driver's License
  • Obtain or be able to obtain a valid TWIC card (Transportation Worker Identification Credential)'
  • Hold a Radar endorsement
  • Must hold a Master of Towing Upon Western Rivers, Master of Towing vessels Upon Great Lakes and Inland Waters
  • Hold a FCC Radio License
  • Be CPR/First Aid, AED Certified or willing to obtain upon hire
  • Pass a post-offer process if an offer is made (background check, drug screen, physical)
  • Be able to climb a ladder and able to board and ride in a skiff
Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

If you are requesting reasonable accommodation or disability assistance in submitting your application, you may email us at [email protected]

Ingram Marine Group and its affiliates ("Company") is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, work related mental or physical disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information. 

EEO/AA Employer/Vet/Disabled

We participate in EVerify

http://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf

http://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeosp.pdf

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