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Ocean Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

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

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 ...

Next Gen Logistics

Tugboat Trip Pilot

New Orleans, LA · Remote

G. MOTV licensed Captain with towing and endorsements for Western Rivers, Oceans, and/or Near ... The Tugboat Trip Pilot must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without ...

Air Methods

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 ...

Air Methods

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 ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Lansdale, PA

$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 ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Lansdale, PA

$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 ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Newark, DE

$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 ...

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All JobsOcean Pilot Jobs

Ocean Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do ocean pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 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 are some common challenges that 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Ocean Pilot, and why are they important?

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 are ocean pilots and what do they do?

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.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
USV Pilot

USV Pilot

Saildrone

Alameda, CA • On-site

$43.36 - $56.34/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

THE COMPANY
Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV manufacturer or operator, Saildrone maintains active, combat-deployed systems supporting national security and force projection around the world, 24/7/365.
Saildrone's manufacturing and R&D headquarters are located in Alameda, CA, with business development and sales operations in Washington, DC, and deployment hubs in Europe and the Middle East. By combining proven autonomous operations, edge computing, advanced sensing, renewable power, and the most advanced and robust unmanned surface technology on the planet, Saildrone is shaping how the Navy of the future operates. Join a fast-moving, mission-driven team at the forefront of maritime security and autonomous innovation.
THE POSITION
Saildrone is seeking a USV Pilot to join our Mission Control team. Reporting directly to the Pilot Team Manager, you will play a critical role in safely navigating and monitoring Saildrone's autonomous surface vehicles (USVs) around the globe. This is a Part-Time, Non-Exempt role designed for experienced mariners who can maintain situational awareness under dynamic conditions and ensure mission success.
THE TEAM
The Mission Control team is responsible for operating and overseeing Saildrone's fleet 24/7/365. We focus on real-time vehicle monitoring, safe navigation, and mission execution to deliver high-quality data for ocean science, environmental monitoring, and defense applications. Your work ensures vehicles operate safely, efficiently, and predictably in the world's oceans.
THE RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Perform remote piloting and monitoring of Saildrone USVs to achieve 24/7 mission execution while meeting strict navigational safety and vehicle health standards.
  • Be accountable for passage planning and route efficiency, including the safe navigation of shipping lanes and ship traffic while maintaining reasonable Closest Point of Approach (CPA).
  • Work closely with Technical Operations and Fleet Service teams to align on vehicle status and ensure successful delivery of high-quality data for ocean science and defense applications.
  • Carry out day-to-day work using the Saildrone Mission Portal and internal communication lines in accordance with maritime weather systems and current assessment standards.
  • Monitor for vehicle navigational anomalies or payload status issues, take action to resolve or mitigate via remote systems, and escalate when system health thresholds are exceeded.
  • Adhere to established mission logs and passdown procedures, documenting all milestones and issues during your watch to ensure seamless 24/7/365 operational continuity.
  • Provide timely updates and real-time communication to the Mission Control Lead and forward-deployed teams to support successful vehicle deployments and recoveries.
  • Meet watch commitments within a rotating 4-day-on/4-day-off cycle, managing assigned priorities across weekend and odd-hour shifts.
THE QUALIFICATIONS
  • 5+ years of maritime command experience, including advanced proficiency in sailing theory and a proven background in ocean crossings.
  • Sailing-specific resume (required in addition to a professional resume) detailing relevant sea time and vessel command.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in digital monitoring tools and computer systems required to manage complex autonomous vehicle fleets remotely.
  • Proven ability to analyze maritime weather forecasts and interpret ocean currents to make critical navigational decisions under time pressure.
  • Ability to clearly communicate real-time operational status and technical anomalies to both internal stakeholders and external customers.
  • Ability to work in a hybrid/remote environment, specifically adhering to a 4-day-on/4-day-off rotation including 8-hour shifts, weekends, and core hours (07:00 to 16:00 EST).
  • Working knowledge of International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and standard maritime safety protocols.
  • Willingness to travel to represent Saildrone at conferences and engage with customers or data specialists as required.

The base salary range for this position is shown below. Actual compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and qualifications. This range reflects the base salary for candidates in states requiring pay transparency disclosure.
Salary Range
$43.36-$56.34 USD
To view Saildrone's candidate privacy policy, please visit: https://www.saildrone.com/privacy-policy.
BENEFITS
At Saildrone, we're building operational capability that matters-and that requires people who can do their best work over the long term. We invest in our team's well-being, financial security, and professional growth so you can focus on delivering real-world impact with confidence and stability. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you and your family while you contribute to a mission with lasting significance.
  • Generous Time Off: Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual plus a robust annual holiday schedule and paid sick leave ensure you can rest, reset, and sustain performance over time.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Premium, multi-tier Medical, Dental, and Vision plans with significant company contributions for employees and dependents-providing security and peace of mind.
  • Shared Ownership in the Mission: Equity grants are a core part of our compensation, allowing you to participate in the long-term value you help create through meaningful, operational work.
  • Retirement Savings: Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with flexible pre-tax and Roth payroll contribution options supports long-term financial planning.
  • Investment in Your Growth: We support your continuous learning through an annual professional development reimbursement program, empowering you to sharpen your skills and stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving field.
  • Relocation Support: For eligible roles, we offer relocation assistance to help bring the world's best talent to our mission-critical locations.

Saildrone is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

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