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Merchant Marine Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

lynden

Mate of Tow - Alaska

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Bering Marine is seeking a Captain - Mate of Tow. As Mate, you will work closely with the Vessel ... Radar Endorsement * Merchant Marine Document * Ideal candidate brings proven Alaska vessel ...

Beyel Brothers

Tugboat Captain

Merritt Island, FL · On-site

... marine transport. Our mission is to lead with humility, drive, and social smarts, attracting ... Merchant Mariner 200 Ton Master upon Oceans with a Master of Towing Endorsement. * Transportation ...

Beyel Brothers

Tugboat Captain

Merritt Island, FL · On-site

... marine transport. Our mission is to lead with humility, drive, and social smarts, attracting ... Merchant Mariner 200 Ton Master upon Oceans with a Master of Towing Endorsement. * Transportation ...

State of Alaska

Boat Officer 2 (12-1921)

Juneau, AK

$32.90/hr

A Merchant Marine Engineering Officer license. U.S. Coast Guard Master's License: A Merchant Marine ... RELIEF CAPTAIN: The person recognized by the master as second-in-command. Authority on the vessel ...

State of Alaska

Boat Officer 2 (12-1921)

Juneau, AK · On-site

$32.90/hr

A Merchant Marine Engineering Officer license. U.S. Coast Guard Master's License: A Merchant Marine ... RELIEF CAPTAIN: The person recognized by the master as second-in-command. Authority on the vessel ...

South Shore Marine

Delivery Captain

Huron, OH · On-site

Demonstrates additional boating merchandise i.e., aftermarket electronics and navigational ... At least two years' experience in marine industry PHYSICAL DEMANDS Use the table / checklist below ...

Zachry

Tug Boat Captain

Mead, OK · On-site

Monitor weather, currents, water elevations, and marine traffic conditions * Conduct vessel ... Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) * Master of Towing Vessels License * OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 ...

Zachry

Tug Boat Captain

Mead, OK · On-site

Monitor weather, currents, water elevations, and marine traffic conditions * Conduct vessel ... Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) * Master of Towing Vessels License * OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 ...

Zachry

Tug Boat Captain

Mead, OK · On-site

Monitor weather, currents, water elevations, and marine traffic conditions * Conduct vessel ... Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) * Master of Towing Vessels License * OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 ...

Zachry

Tug Boat Captain

Mead, OK · On-site

Monitor weather, currents, water elevations, and marine traffic conditions * Conduct vessel ... Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) * Master of Towing Vessels License * OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 ...

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Merchant Marine Captain information

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How much do merchant marine captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for merchant marine captain in the United States is $25.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Merchant Marine Captain do?

A Merchant Marine Captain is responsible for the safe operation and navigation of cargo or passenger ships. They oversee crew, ensure compliance with maritime regulations, and make critical decisions during voyages, often requiring certifications such as a U.S. Coast Guard license. The role involves working long hours at sea and managing ship logistics and safety procedures.

What are typical career progression opportunities for a merchant marine captain?

Many Merchant Marine Captains begin their careers as deck officers and progress through the ranks with additional sea time, training, and certifications. After serving as captain, some professionals advance to fleet management, shore-based vessel operations, maritime safety roles, or training new officers at maritime academies. Leadership experience as a captain opens doors to higher-level management positions within shipping companies, port authorities, or government agencies. Career development often includes ongoing education and keeping up-to-date with evolving maritime regulations and technology.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a merchant marine captain?

To thrive as a Merchant Marine Captain, you need deep expertise in maritime navigation, ship handling, and crew management, typically supported by a degree from a maritime academy and a U.S. Coast Guard Master Mariner license. Familiarity with electronic chart systems, marine communication devices, and safety management systems is critical for operating modern vessels safely and efficiently. Strong leadership, decision-making, and crisis management skills set outstanding captains apart in challenging maritime conditions. These competencies ensure safe voyages, regulatory compliance, and the effective coordination of crew and operations at sea.

What is a merchant marine captain?

A Merchant Marine Captain is responsible for commanding and navigating commercial vessels that transport cargo and passengers over water. They oversee crew operations, ensure compliance with maritime laws, and manage ship safety and maintenance. Captains must hold a U.S. Coast Guard license and have extensive experience at sea. Their role is critical in global trade, ensuring goods and personnel move safely and efficiently across waterways.

How much does a Merchant Marine captain make?

A Merchant Marine captain typically earns between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, vessel type, and certifications. Salaries can vary based on the size of the ship, the employer, and the region, with additional compensation often including benefits and overtime pay.
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Merchant Marine Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Merchant Marine Captain job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Mate of Tow - Alaska

lynden

Anchorage, AK • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Bering Marine is seeking a Captain – Mate of Tow. As Mate, you will work closely with the Vessel Captain to command the vessel in and out of harbors, rivers, and coastal passages, assist with cargo operations, and stand navigation watch while underway. Your expertise will help ensure smooth operations in demanding marine environments.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned mariner with strong vesselhandling skills, a safetyfirst mindset, and the ability to lead and support crews while operating in some of Alaska’s toughest conditions.

If you’re a skilled Mate of Tow who thrives in demanding conditions and takes pride in doing the job right, Bering Marine Corporation offers a career unlike any other. Join a stable, familyowned company with a strong team culture and a reputation for getting the job done in Alaska’s toughest environments.

 

Who we are: 

Bering Marine Corporation (BMC) is part of the Lynden Family of Companies, connecting communities through transportation and logistics solutions that keep Alaska moving by air, land, and sea.

The work BMC does supports remote communities and critical projects across the state, where problemsolving, teamwork, and grit matter every day. Our shallowdraft fleet delivers building materials, equipment, and seafood through some of the state’s most challenging seas and waterways, enabling construction of docks, roads, and airstrips.

What You Will Be Doing

  • Assist the Vessel Captain in determining course and speed on basis of specialized knowledge of wind, weather, tides and current
  • Steer the vessel and may push or pull barges to the destination and berth while avoiding shipping hazards and utilizing various navigation devices.
  • May assist in the oversight of vessel loading and unloading.
  • Track and report crew days and cargo hours and reports it promptly.
  • Keep logs of vessel operations as required by the company or USCG.
  • Ensure crew and vessel safety and upholds the Company's safety policies. Assists Captain in conducting safety meetings, job safety analysis (JSA’s), and other reporting conditions.
  • Perform other duties as instructed by Vessel Captain.
  • Teamwork is a must.

 

What’s In It for You:

  • Discretionary bonus program
  • Competitive Alaska wages + annual wage reviews
  • Two medical plans starting as low as $0/month
  • Medical, dental and vision for your family for $222/month (HDHP)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Mental health programs (in-office and virtual)
  • 401(k) with company match + additional contributions
  • No-cost Employee assistance program, life insurance, long term disability and AD&D
  • Tuition Reimbursement program
  • Career advancement through internal promotions
  • Alaska Paid Sick Leave

 

What We Need from You (required)

  • 5 years’ experience as a Mate
  • FCC Radio License
  • Current Coast Guard Physical Card
  • Towing Endorsement
  • USCG License- Mate 200 ton minimum, coastal
  • Radar Endorsement
  • Merchant Marine Document
  • Ideal candidate brings proven Alaska vessel experience and knowledge of local waters and communities we serve

Why should you join us?

  • We’re ethical and human. We don’t get everything perfect, but we try hard.  When we miss the mark, we own it and make it right.
  • We work as a collaborative team built on respect and support.

Fine Print:

All employment offers are contingent on a satisfactory background check and preemployment drug screen.

Bering Marine is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on any protected status.

Apply