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Master Captain Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Mainstay Maritime

Port Captain

Muskegon, MI · On-site

Description The Port Captain is an integral member of the shoreside Operations team. The Port ... Possess, at a minimum, a current USCG license as Master of Motor and Steam Vessels of not more than ...

Mainstay Maritime

Port Captain

Muskegon, MI · On-site

The Port Captain supports the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of Mainstay Maritime's Great ... Possess, at a minimum, a current USCG license as Master of Motor and Steam Vessels of not more than ...

Mainstay Maritime

Port Captain

Muskegon, MI · On-site

Description: The Port Captain is an integral member of the shoreside Operations team. The Port ... Possess, at a minimum, a current USCG license as Master of Motor and Steam Vessels of not more than ...

Mainstay Maritime

Port Captain

Muskegon, MI · On-site

Description: The Port Captain is an integral member of the shoreside Operations team. The Port ... Possess, at a minimum, a current USCG license as Master of Motor and Steam Vessels of not more than ...

Torrey Holistics

Boat Captain

Detroit, MI · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

... Captain with a minimum of 3-4 years of experience to provide Harbor Assist towing within the ... Master of Towing Vessel License upon Great Lakes, Inland Waters and Western RiversValid ...

Journeyman Distillery

Event Utilities

Three Oaks, MI · On-site

ALWAYS A JOURNEYMAN, NEVER A MASTER * 'Good enough' isn't in our vocabulary. * We are committed to ... Clarify assigned tasks with Banquet Captain or Shift Leaders. * Complete closing duties before end ...

Wayne County Airport Authority

Firefighter

Detroit, MI · On-site

$89K/yr

... master degree) * Generous PTO (vacation, sick, holidays, other) no waiting period before use * 10 Kelly days annually Career Path Opportunities * Fire Lieutenant, Captain/Platoon, Captain/Training ...

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Master Captain information

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$32

$66

How much do master captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for master captain in Michigan is $32.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a master captain?

Master Captains, also known as Masters or Ship Masters, are licensed mariners who are legally responsible for the operation and safety of commercial vessels. They oversee all aspects of a ship's navigation, crew management, and compliance with maritime laws. Master Captains ensure safe passage, cargo handling, and proper maintenance of the vessel. They typically hold a Master’s license, such as the USCG Master 100 Ton License, which allows them to command vessels up to a certain size and type. Their expertise and leadership are critical for successful and safe maritime operations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a master captain?

To thrive as a Master Captain, you need advanced maritime knowledge, navigation expertise, and a U.S. Coast Guard Master Captain's License with relevant sea-time experience. Familiarity with navigation systems, radar, GPS, electronic chart display systems (ECDIS), and marine communication tools is essential. Leadership, decision-making under pressure, and strong communication skills help ensure safety and effective crew management. These skills and qualifications are crucial for safely operating vessels, complying with maritime regulations, and responding efficiently to emergencies at sea.

What challenges does a master captain face when managing a crew on long voyages?

Master Captains often encounter challenges such as maintaining crew morale, ensuring adherence to safety protocols, and managing fatigue during extended periods at sea. Effective communication and leadership are essential to address cultural differences, resolve conflicts, and keep the team focused on operational goals. Additionally, Master Captains must be adept at adapting to changing weather and maritime conditions, all while coordinating with shore-based management and regulatory authorities.

What is the difference between Master Captain vs Chief Mate?

CriteriaMaster CaptainChief Mate
Required CredentialsSTCW Master License, extensive maritime trainingSTCW Officer License, maritime training, and experience
Work EnvironmentOversees entire vessel operations, responsible for safety and navigationAssists the Master Captain, manages deck crew, and navigates
Employer & Industry UsageCommercial shipping, cruise lines, private yachtsCommercial ships, cruise ships, yachts

The Master Captain holds the highest authority onboard, responsible for the entire vessel and crew. The Chief Mate supports the Master Captain, focusing on deck operations and safety. Both roles require maritime certifications, but the Master Captain's credentials and responsibilities are more extensive, making it a higher-ranking position in the ship's hierarchy.

How long does it take to become a master captain?

Becoming a master captain typically requires several years of experience, usually around 3 to 5 years, along with obtaining necessary certifications such as a Master Mariner license. Candidates must accumulate sea time, pass exams, and demonstrate leadership and navigation skills in a maritime environment.

How much do master captains make?

Master captains, also known as ship captains or vessel masters, typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on the type of vessel, experience, and certification level. Salaries can be higher for captains of large commercial ships or specialized vessels, and they often work long hours and are responsible for safety and navigation.

What are popular job titles related to Master Captain jobs in Michigan?

For Master Captain jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Master Captain jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Master Captain jobs in Michigan are:

Master Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Master Captain job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,658 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Great Lakes Master (Captain)

Grand-River-Navigation

Traverse City, MI • On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Great Lakes Master (Captain)

Grand River Navigation Company Traverse City, Michigan, United States

About this position

Description: Come Sail with us on the Great Lakes!

If you are looking to become part of our team that strongly values safety, efficient operations, a family-oriented environment, come sail with us! Grand River Navigation has one of the best leave and rotation systems on the Great Lakes. With unprecedented teamwork and some of the most talented colleagues in the industry we can guarantee you will enjoy a career with us!

Grand River Navigation Company is the U.S. operating subsidiary of Mainstay Maritime. We are one of the largest marine transportation service providers operating on the Great Lakes today with a combined fleet of 15 bulk freight vessels that provide service to over 50 customers across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway.

  • Competitive total rewards package including income, paid travel to/from the vessel, healthcare benefits, retirement savings plans and work/life balance with best-in-class rotation.
  • We have many education opportunities and upgrade bonuses to support career growth at a pace that is right for each individual.

Great Lakes Ship Captain (Master) - Key Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Maintain ultimate command and accountability for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel.
  • Ensure the seaworthiness, safety, security, and operational readiness of the vessel, equipment, cargo, and crew.
  • Safely navigate and maneuver the vessel throughout Great Lakes waterways, ports, locks, and restricted channels.
  • Serve as the Company's representative and primary authority onboard, overseeing all vessel operations and decision-making.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements, company policies, environmental standards, and maritime industry best practices.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop crew members while fostering a professional, safety-focused, and positive work environment.
  • Direct emergency response activities and make critical operational decisions to protect personnel, cargo, the vessel, and the environment.
  • Oversee voyage planning, risk assessment, cargo operations, vessel security, and safe work practices.
  • Promote a culture of teamwork, accountability, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.

Why Choose Grand River Navigation?

  • As an employee you are part of the Mainstay Maritime family where Teamwork and safety are a core value
  • Highly competitive wages and benefits including medical, dental, vision, company paid long-term and short-term disability and life insurance, 401K with company match.
  • Excellent safety record

Requirements:

  • Valid passport and allowed entry into the Canada
  • Valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) issued by the USCG
  • Endorsement as Master of Self-Propelled Vessels of Unlimited Tonnage upon the Great Lakes and Inland Waters (Minimum)
  • First Class Pilot of Vessels of Unlimited Tonnage upon the Great Lakes between Duluth, Gary, Buffalo and Port Weller to Cape Vincent
  • Certification as Ship Security Officer
  • Transportation Worker Identification (TWIC) issued by TSA
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills as well as the ability to multi-task

Grand River Navigation is an Equal Opportunity Employer – All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality or sex, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We also comply with Family Medical Leave Act and Employee Rights Employee Polygraph Protection Act.

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