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Ocean Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tropic Ocean Airways, LLC

Pilot

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$80 - $130/hr

PILOT Tropic Ocean Airways is the largest seaplane operator in the Southeast United States. We currently operate Cessna Grand Caravan EX aircraft on Wipaire amphibious floats in The Bahamas, the ...

Saildrone

USV Pilot

Alameda, CA · On-site

$43.36 - $56.34/hr

With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV manufacturer or operator ... Reporting directly to the Pilot Team Manager, you will play a critical role in safely navigating ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Newark, DE · On-site

$88K - $109K/yr

... ocean. Whether you're drawn by the serene mountain views, the welcoming local vibe, or the ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Seasats

Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) Pilot

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) Pilot Location: San Diego, CA (in-office) Typical working hours ... After thousands of years in which the only way to gather information from the ocean was to put ...

Seasats

Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) Pilot

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) Pilot Location: San Diego, CA (in-office) Typical working hours ... After thousands of years in which the only way to gather information from the ocean was to put ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Lansdale, PA · On-site

$87K - $108K/yr

... and ocean breezes. With the added convenience of excellent schools, top-notch healthcare, and a ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Seasats

Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) Pilot

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) Pilot Location: San Diego, CA (in-office) Typical working hours ... After thousands of years in which the only way to gather information from the ocean was to put ...

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Pilot 2/3

San Diego, CA · On-site

$137K - $206K/yr

... Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas ... Pilots are home almost every night, off on weekends, have an advanced one month work schedule. Must ...

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Pilot 2/3

San Diego, CA

$137K - $206K/yr

... Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas ... Pilots are home almost every night, off on weekends, have an advanced one month work schedule. Must ...

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Staff Pilot Test

Edwards, CA · On-site

$214K - $321K/yr

... Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas ... Provides test pilot expertise to assigned programs; technology/research efforts to ensure man ...

Northrop Grumman

Sr Staff Test Pilot

Melbourne, FL

$201K - $302K/yr

... Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas ... The Chief Test Pilot (CTP) is a key contributor to the program and sits on the program leadership ...

Genesis Energy, L.P

$110 - $170/hr

... and one ocean going tanker. We have a total design capacity of 2.3 mmbbl for Inland Marine ... The Trip Pilot shall be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel and its tow ...

New

Northrop Grumman Corp. (AU)

Staff Test Pilot

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$185 - $277.40/hr

... Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas ... Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has an opening for a Staff Test Pilot to join the team of ...

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Ocean Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do ocean pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an ocean pilot?

Ocean pilots, also known as maritime or marine pilots, are experienced navigators who guide ships through dangerous or congested waters such as harbors, rivers, or coastal areas. They board vessels to assist the ship's captain with local navigation, ensuring safe passage by using their expert knowledge of tides, currents, local regulations, and hazards. Ocean pilots play a critical role in preventing accidents and protecting marine environments by helping vessels avoid collisions and groundings. Their work is essential for the safety of both crew and cargo, as well as the surrounding ecosystem.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an ocean pilot?

To thrive as an Ocean Pilot, you need extensive maritime knowledge, a valid maritime pilot license, and significant experience in navigation and ship handling. Familiarity with electronic navigational systems (such as ECDIS and radar), vessel traffic services, and local regulations is essential, and many regions require specialized pilotage certification. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making, and communication skills are crucial for coordinating with ship crews and port authorities. These competencies are vital to ensure the safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible passage of large vessels through complex or challenging waterways.

What challenges do ocean pilots face when guiding vessels in and out of ports?

Ocean Pilots often encounter challenges such as navigating large vessels through narrow or congested waterways, dealing with rapidly changing weather and sea conditions, and maintaining clear communication with ship crews who may come from diverse backgrounds. Each port has unique navigational hazards and regulations, requiring Pilots to stay updated and adapt quickly. Additionally, Ocean Pilots must be prepared for irregular hours and remain alert during long shifts, ensuring the safe and efficient passage of ships at all times.

What is the difference between Ocean Pilot vs Marine Navigator?

AspectOcean PilotMarine Navigator
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Pilot LicenseSTCW Basic Safety, Navigation Certification
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, coastal and open seaOnboard ships, primarily navigation roles
Industry UsageMaritime shipping, port pilotageMaritime shipping, vessel navigation

Ocean Pilots and Marine Navigators both require maritime certifications and work onboard ships. Ocean Pilots typically specialize in guiding ships through ports and coastal waters, while Marine Navigators focus on charting courses and ensuring safe navigation at sea. Both roles are essential in maritime operations, but Ocean Pilots often have more specialized port and coastal expertise.

More about Ocean Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Ocean Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Ocean Pilot job openings:

What states have the most Ocean Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Ocean Pilot jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Ocean Pilot jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Ocean Pilot jobs are:

Ocean Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ocean Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 82% In-person, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Pilot

Tropic Ocean Airways, LLC

Fort Lauderdale, FL • On-site

$80 - $130/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Apply today to join the elite team of Pilots of the Caribbean! Employees enjoy benefits such as flight privileges, health insurance, dental, vision and GAP insurance, maternity leave, paid time off (PTO) and a voluntary 401(K) with employer match. JOB POSITION: PILOT

Tropic Ocean Airways is the largest seaplane operator in the Southeast United States. We currently operate Cessna Grand Caravan EX aircraft on Wipaire amphibious floats in The Bahamas, the Caribbean and New York.

We are looking for qualified candidates who are interested and able to work in various locations as required. This is a salaried, full-time position with full benefits.

SIC Minimum Qualifications:

  • 250 hours Total Flight Time
  • FAA Commercial ASEL, Instrument Rating.
  • FAA Commercial ASES
  • FAA High Performance and Complex endorsements
  • Second Class Medical Certificate

PIC Minimum Qualifications (the above SIC minimums plus):

All applicants at Tropic Ocean Airways will be evaluated during three (3) separate interviews.

Applicants that successfully advance through all three (3) interviews, may receive a conditionaloffer of employment. Upon the satisfactory completion of a drug screening and backgroundcheck, conditional employees will receive a new hire information packet.

Orientation Application Process Our Commitment to Our Team

At Tropic Ocean Airways, we're dedicated to helping our pilots succeed with ongoing education. Once you are hired, we'll help you master our state-of-the-art seaplane aircraft and elevate your already robust capabilities. You'll receive personalized coaching to refine techniques, safety skills, passenger service, and open water operations.

We invest in hands-on training because our pilots' expertise is paramount to our mission. As a member of our team, you'll have access to professional development opportunities that far surpass basic requirements . Consider us your partners in reaching your aviation goals!

Our in-house training program enables our team to operate to the highest standards, delivering an unparalleled flight experience. Contact us at pilothiring@flytropic.com to learn more about how we're committed to your growth and success.

(Please see our minimum SIC requirements above before applying).

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