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Oil Tanker Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Perform work as directed by captain of vessel. Job includes pulling heavy lines, climbing onto and ... Drain water out of air tanks every day. Check oil in auxiliary and main engines before starting.

Perform work as directed by captain of vessel. Job includes pulling heavy lines, climbing onto and ... Drain water out of air tanks every day. Check oil in auxiliary and main engines before starting.

Perform work as directed by captain of vessel. Job includes pulling heavy lines, climbing onto and ... Drain water out of air tanks every day. Check oil in auxiliary and main engines before starting.

Perform work as directed by captain of vessel. Job includes pulling heavy lines, climbing onto and ... Drain water out of air tanks every day. Check oil in auxiliary and main engines before starting.

P. of Operations, OperationsManager, Port Captain Supervises: Tankerman,Deckhands ... On smaller vessels performs routine engine room maintenance such as changing oil, checking oil, and ...

Maintains the openings /closures of the Marina and Captain's Cabin Gates. Maintains tank valves ... oil leaks. * Reports and escalates any issues to supervisor * Maintains and cleans the pontoon ...

Showing results 41-60

Oil Tanker Captain information

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$43K

$87.2K

$129K

How much do oil tanker captain jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for oil tanker captain in the United States is $87,249.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $127,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an oil tanker captain do?

An Oil Tanker Captain is responsible for commanding and overseeing the safe operation of oil tanker vessels, which transport crude oil or petroleum products across oceans and seas. They manage the ship’s crew, navigate routes, ensure compliance with international maritime regulations, and supervise the safe loading and unloading of oil cargo. Additionally, the captain is accountable for environmental safety, emergency response, and maintaining communications with port authorities. Their leadership is crucial to prevent accidents and environmental hazards, such as oil spills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an oil tanker captain, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Oil Tanker Captain, you need extensive maritime experience, a valid master mariner’s license, and thorough knowledge of navigation, safety regulations, and cargo operations. Familiarity with electronic chart systems, radar, communication tools, and compliance with international maritime certifications like STCW is essential. Strong leadership, decision-making under pressure, and effective communication are critical soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure safe vessel operations, regulatory compliance, and efficient management of crew and cargo in a complex and high-risk environment.

What are some common challenges faced by oil tanker captains during long voyages?

Oil Tanker Captains often encounter challenges such as navigating through adverse weather conditions, ensuring strict compliance with international maritime safety regulations, and maintaining effective communication with crew and shore-based teams. Managing the safe transfer and storage of hazardous cargo requires constant vigilance to prevent spills or accidents. Additionally, captains must oversee crew welfare and operational efficiency during extended periods at sea, balancing demanding schedules with the well-being of their team.

What is the difference between Oil Tanker Captain vs Oil Tanker Chief Officer?

AspectOil Tanker CaptainOil Tanker Chief Officer
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Advanced Navigation, Tanker EndorsementsSTCW Basic Safety, Advanced Navigation, Tanker Endorsements
Work EnvironmentBridge, deck, ship operations, decision-making authorityDeck, cargo operations, assisting captain, supervising crew
ResponsibilitiesOverall ship command, safety, navigation, complianceCargo management, safety procedures, assisting captain

The Oil Tanker Captain is responsible for the overall operation and safety of the vessel, holding command authority. The Oil Tanker Chief Officer supports the captain by managing cargo operations and safety procedures. Both roles require similar certifications and work in the same environment, but the captain has ultimate decision-making authority while the chief officer focuses on operational tasks.

Are oil tanker captains in demand?

Oil tanker captains are in steady demand due to ongoing global energy needs and the continued operation of maritime shipping. Employment opportunities depend on industry conditions, certifications, and experience, with a competitive job market for qualified professionals. The role requires strong navigation skills, knowledge of safety protocols, and often a valid maritime license.

How much do oil tanker captains make?

Oil tanker captains typically earn between $80,000 and $200,000 annually, depending on experience, vessel size, and employer. Salaries can increase with seniority, certifications, and the number of voyages completed, often including benefits and allowances for time at sea.
More about Oil Tanker Captain jobs

What cities are hiring for Oil Tanker Captain jobs?

Cities with the most Oil Tanker Captain job openings:

What states have the most Oil Tanker Captain jobs?

States with the most job openings for Oil Tanker Captain jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Oil Tanker Captain jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Oil Tanker Captain jobs are:

Infographic showing various Oil Tanker Captain job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,249 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Centerline Logistics rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Acts as third in command of the tug. Must be able to understand and carry out the orders and directions of the Captain. The job responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following: cargo pumps, assist in operating tank/pipeline valves, operate manual and hydraulic booms. Must be prepared to assume command in the event of incapacity of the Captain.


  • Stands wheelhouse watch with the Captain and Chief Mate, generally when the vessel is beyond the sea buoy. When the unit is inside the sea buoy the Second Mate should be prepared to assist with cargo operations on the barge.
  • Oversees safety of vessel including all installed equipment and inspections thereof.
  • Safely handles lines and wires as appropriate for mooring operations.
  • Maintains chart corrections and light lists, Coast Pilots and all other applicable publications for Area of Operations.
  • Must be able to communicate effectively and direct workers in assigning jobs and seeing them through to completion.
  • Must be able to train assigned workers. Instruct deckhands in seamanship skills and on use of all tools and machinery aboard the vessel.
  • Assists Captain in barge landings and must be able to communicate distances and directions to Captain clearly, accurately and concisely.
  • Determine the need for and assign lookouts as necessary.
  • Become familiar with and enforce company safety practices.
  • Complete accurate paperwork. Knowledge of basic arithmetic skills (add, subtract, multiply, and divide).
  • Maintain professional relations with customers.
  • Check oil and water in any equipment on board before putting in use.
  • Responsible for general barge maintenance and cleanliness.
  • Assists in hydrostatic testing cargo hoses and piping.
  • Change engine oil and filters.
  • Splice barge lines and boom running gear.
  • Inspecting for cleanliness of vessel and barge.
  • Inventory supplies and order as appropriate.
  • Monitor onboard usage to ensure supplies are utilized in an efficient manner.

  • Must have a valid Mate Coast Guard license 200 GT near Coastal or Oceans with radar observer endorsement or higher.
  • Tankerman PIC or Tankerman Assist, preferred
  • Previous experience as a Mate or Master of a tug hauling oil barges.
  • Previous experience as a tank barge operator on oil barges preferred.
  • Knowledge of Coast Guard and state requirements for transfer operations.
  • Completion of Coast Guard approved firefighting training.
  • Knowledge of company safety practices.
  • Valid state driver’s
  • Valid first aid certificate and CPR training.
  • Complete 24 hour HAZWOPER training within 30 days of hire.
  • Must be able to fairly evaluate subordinates.
  • Must be able to understand and use information in cargo information cards and material safety data sheets.
  • Ability to be self-motivated and to think and respond quickly to emergency situations (oil spills, mechanical failures, etc.).
  • Must be able to read, speak, and understand English over telephone and/or radio.
  • The maximum facial hair you can have is a mustache & a short goatee, nothing can extend below your jaw line.
  • Must pass a respirator fit test as a pre-employment requirement and again once a year.

  • Exposure to all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, heat, wind, heavy seas, etc.)
  • Work aboard boats and barges using pike poles, heavy lines, and winches, mechanical tools for repairs, paint, thinner, paint brushes/rollers, paint chipping tools, cleaning solvents, kitchen utensils/cookware, and electrical cords. Air purifying respirator, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), air monitoring equipment, hearing protection, VHF radio, hand tools, tow lines, high level alarms and thermometer. Operates diesel engines, cargo pumps, hydraulic booms, cargo gear, gate valves, and butterfly valves.
  • Must not be afraid of heights.
  • Must be able to work around mooring lines, cables, shackles, and moving gear in wet conditions and be able to maintain situational-awareness for themselves and fellow crew members around them when working on deck, in foul wet weather in low light.
  • Must be able to perform the functions set forth in the job analysis and be physically fit enough to pull heavy lines/hoses, lift, carry heavy items, kneel while painting, climb onto barges and up and down ladders, and bending and twisting during boat/barge tie up.

  • Ability to adapt to a variety of schedules and hours
  • Able to work weekends, holidays, and at night. Willing to take call outs.

Centerline Logistics is a leading provider of marine transportation services in the United States. Centerline Logistics operates on the United States West Coast (including Alaska and Hawaii), United States East Coast (including Puerto Rico), the United States Gulf Coast and the Mississippi River System. Services provided include the transportation and storage of petroleum products, tanker escort, ship assist, the transportation of general cargo and rescue towing. Centerline Logistics is the parent company of eight businesses specializing in marine services and a bulk liquids terminal business. Centerline Logistics provides accounting, administrative, human resources, safety and environmental services, and other support to the subsidiary companies.

The Company offers Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and AD&D options to our employees and their eligible dependents after meeting Company requirements. 401(k) options, Disability Insurance, sick pay, vacation pay, 10 paid holidays per calendar year (subject to work schedule) and Healthcare and/or Dependent Care FSAs are also available to our employees after meeting Company requirements. All benefits information may be subject to change based on any current or updated benefit plan year changes and/or Collective Bargaining Agreements.

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity and Drug Free Work place. Pre-employment drug testing is required.


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