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Merchant Marine Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Mate, 2nd - Marine

Boston, MA · On-site

Requirements/Qualifications: * Must hold the following USCG Merchant Mariner Credential ... USCG National Endorsements (Domestic): * 500 GRT Oceans or 1,600 GRT Oceans or higher, Mate Pilot ...

Savage

Mate, 2nd - Marine

Newark, NJ · On-site

Must hold the following USCG Merchant Mariner Credential international and national endorsements ... USCG National Endorsements (Domestic): * 500 GRT Oceans or 1,600 GRT Oceans or higher, Mate Pilot ...

State of Louisiana

FERRYBOAT OPERATOR 1-3

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$3.6K - $6.5K/mo

Applicants possessing a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a Designated Duty Engineer (DDE ... The incumbent operates an engine room and machinery on board or operates and pilots an "inspected ...

State of Louisiana

FERRYBOAT OPERATOR 1-3

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$3.6K - $6.5K/mo

Applicants possessing a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a Designated Duty Engineer (DDE ... Pilot ferries carrying vehicles and passengers on the Mississippi River and Calcasieu Ship Channel.

McAllister Towing

Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

... Harbor Pilot. Captain Westall was named Vice President and General Manager of McAllister of ... Valid Merchant Mariners Credential - 200-ton Mate license * Mate or Master of Towing * Valid STCW ...

McAllister Towing

Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

... Harbor Pilot. Captain Westall was named Vice President and General Manager of McAllister of ... Valid Merchant Mariners Credential - 200-ton Mate license * Mate or Master of Towing * Valid STCW ...

Blessey Marine

Tankerman

Harahan, LA · On-site

Reportsto: Captain, Relief Captain and Pilot Supervises: Thisposition has no supervisory ... Possess a valid, current Merchant Mariners Document with a Tankerman endorsement for Grade B liquid ...

City of New York

Captain (Sludge Boat)

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Examples of typical tasks are as follows: exercise independent judgement under way; pilot the ... CAPTAIN (SLUDGE BOAT) - 91516 Qualifications Qualification Requirements A valid Merchant Mariner ...

Blessey Marine

Bunker Tankerman

Harahan, LA · On-site

$23 - $26.75/hr

Captain, Relief Captain and Pilot SUMMARY DESCRIPTION: Responsible for the safe, efficient ... Possess a valid, current Merchant Mariners Credential with a Tank Barge PIC Endorsement (Tankerman ...

Blessey Marine

Bunker Tankerman

Harahan, LA · On-site

$23 - $26.75/hr

Captain, Relief Captain and Pilot SUMMARY DESCRIPTION: Responsible for the safe, efficient ... Possess a valid, current Merchant Mariners Credential with a Tank Barge PIC Endorsement (Tankerman ...

Blessey Marine Services

Tankerman

Harahan, LA · On-site

Reportsto: Captain, Relief Captain and Pilot Supervises: Thisposition has no supervisory ... Possess a valid, current Merchant Mariners Document with a Tankerman endorsement for Grade B liquid ...

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Merchant Marine Pilot information

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$54.5K

$144.5K

$270K

How much do merchant marine pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for merchant marine pilot in the United States is $144,531.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $230,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Merchant Marine Pilot?

Merchant Marine Pilots are highly trained maritime professionals responsible for navigating ships through hazardous or congested waters, such as harbors, rivers, or canals. They board vessels to guide them safely to their destinations, using their extensive knowledge of local waterways, currents, and regulations. Merchant Marine Pilots play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of ships, preventing accidents and protecting the environment. They typically work with both domestic and international ships and must maintain specialized licenses and credentials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Merchant Marine pilot?

To thrive as a Merchant Marine Pilot, you need in-depth knowledge of maritime navigation, ship handling, and local waterway regulations, supported by a relevant license from the U.S. Coast Guard or equivalent authority. Familiarity with radar, GPS, electronic chart display systems (ECDIS), and communication equipment is crucial for safe vessel operations. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making, and clear communication skills help pilots work effectively with ship crews and harbor personnel. These skills are vital to ensure the safe and efficient movement of vessels, prevent accidents, and protect marine environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Merchant Marine pilots during vessel navigation and how are they addressed?

Merchant Marine Pilots often encounter challenges such as maneuvering large vessels through congested or narrow waterways, unpredictable weather conditions, and coordinating with ship crews from diverse backgrounds. To address these challenges, pilots rely on advanced navigational technology, maintain clear communication with onboard teams and harbor authorities, and continually update their knowledge of local waterways. Ongoing training and simulation exercises also help pilots stay prepared for unexpected situations, ensuring safe and efficient vessel transit.

What is the difference between Merchant Marine Pilot vs Marine Engineer?

AspectMerchant Marine PilotMarine Engineer
CredentialsMerchant Mariner Credential with pilot endorsementsEngineering licenses or certifications, such as a Third Assistant Engineer license
Work EnvironmentBridge of ships, navigating and steering vesselsEngine rooms, maintaining and operating ship machinery
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, ports, maritime transportationShip operators, maritime engineering firms

Merchant Marine Pilots primarily navigate ships through ports and waterways, requiring navigation credentials, while Marine Engineers focus on maintaining ship engines and systems. Both roles are essential in maritime operations but differ in responsibilities and work environments.

How much do merchant marine pilots make?

Merchant marine pilots typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, vessel size, and the employer. Salaries can increase with seniority, certifications, and specialized skills such as navigation and safety procedures.

How to become a merchant marine pilot?

To become a merchant marine pilot, you typically need to obtain a U.S. Coast Guard license as a Third Mate or higher, which requires completing maritime training, accruing sea service hours, and passing written and practical exams. Additional certifications such as STCW may be required for international operations, and strong navigation, communication, and safety skills are essential. Gaining experience on ships and maintaining good physical health are also important steps in the process.
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Merchant Marine Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Merchant Marine Pilot 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 $144,531 per year, or $69.5 per hour.

Great Lakes Piloting Mate

Grand River Navigation Company

Traverse City, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
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.
"We can go where the big ships go and also where they can't!"
Our Company is searching for qualified candidates for the position of Mate / First Class Pilot aboard our US flagged self-unloading vessels.
Responsibilities
  • Serve as the senior deck officer and principal assistant to the Master in the safe navigation and operation of the vessel.
  • Direct and maintain safe navigational watches, ensuring compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and established maritime practices.
  • Lead, coordinate, and oversee all Deck Department personnel, promoting a culture of safety, professionalism, and operational excellence.
  • Plan, supervise, and ensure the effective maintenance, preservation, and upkeep of the vessel's hull, decks, superstructure, and deck machinery.
  • Manage all cargo operations, including the safe loading, unloading, stowage, and securing of cargo while ensuring compliance with vessel stability and safety requirements.
  • Ensure all lifesaving, firefighting, emergency, and pollution prevention equipment is properly maintained, inspected, and ready for immediate use.
  • Coordinate deck maintenance programs, vessel inspections, and regulatory compliance activities to meet company, U.S. Coast Guard, and industry standards.
  • Manage the procurement, inventory, and control of deck stores, equipment, and supplies to support efficient vessel operations.
  • Conduct crew training, safety meetings, and emergency drills to ensure preparedness and adherence to the vessel's Safety Management System (SMS).
  • Maintain accurate records, logs, maintenance reports, and regulatory documentation as required.
  • Assume command responsibilities in the absence of the Master, as directed.
  • Perform additional duties and special assignments as delegated by the Master.

Benefits
  • 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
  • Company paid training and education opportunities

Requirements
  • TWIC Card - Transportation Worker Identification Credential
  • United States Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC) issued by the United States Coast Guard (USCG)
  • Endorsement as Mate 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
  • Unexpired US Passport or Enhanced Driver's License and allowed entry into Canada
  • Legally authorized to work in the US, without restriction
  • Excellent communication and ability to multi-task
  • Experience working as a team and desire to working together as a team player
  • Experience and desires to align to our Values: Creating a Positive Customer Experience, Health/Safety/Environment focused, High Integrity and Teamwork

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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