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Port Captain Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

HMM America Inc.

Port Captain

Oakland, CA · On-site

GENERAL POSITION OVERVIEW The Port Captain position has regional responsibilities for efficient and cost-effective terminal and vessel operations within the assigned region's ports and marine ...

Foss Maritime Company

Port Captain

Richmond, CA

Must have five years as a tugboat captain or shoreside management experience. Must possess a valid USCG Masters License or Mates License at a minimum. Compensation: Pay for this position will be ...

Foss Maritime

Port Captain

Richmond, CA · On-site

Must have five years as a tugboat captain or shoreside management experience. Must possess a valid USCG Masters License or Mates License at a minimum. Compensation: Pay for this position will be ...

Foss Maritime

Port Captain

Richmond, CA

Must have five years as a tugboat captain or shoreside management experience. Must possess a valid USCG Masters License or Mates License at a minimum. Compensation: Pay for this position will be ...

RDC

Job Captain, Grocery

Long Beach, CA

$65K - $85K/yr

Position Summary The Job Captain is competent in all conventional aspects of architectural practice with an emphasis on the creative and technical implementation of the project design. Performs work ...

Leidos

Mate Oceans 500 Tons or greater O/MUSV

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Report to USV Master and Deputy Port Captain for pier side and afloat USV operations. * Participate in seamanship duties as required including small craft operation. * Assist in preparation ...

Leidos

Chief Engineer Limited Tonnage O/MUSV

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

Report to USV Master and Port Captain for pier side and afloat USV operations. * Take responsibility for first-line maintenance and repairs of USV propulsion system. Perform/ supervise scheduled and ...

Leidos

Chief Engineer Limited Tonnage O/MUSV

Oxnard, CA

$107K - $195K/yr

Report to USV Master and Port Captain for pier side and afloat USV operations. * Take responsibility for first-line maintenance and repairs of USV propulsion system. Perform/ supervise scheduled and ...

Leidos

Mate Oceans 500 Tons or greater O/MUSV

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Report to USV Master and Deputy Port Captain for pier side and afloat USV operations. * Participate in seamanship duties as required including small craft operation. * Assist in preparation ...

Curtin Maritime, Corp

Mate

Long Beach, CA

$32.15 - $53.58/day

Mate I, II, III will work directly with the Port Captain, and Vessel Captain, applying our three core values of Innovation, Integrity, and Efficiency and maintaining the Curtin Standard onboard. WHAT ...

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All JobsPort Captain JobsPort Captain Jobs in California

Port Captain information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$99.3K

$140.1K

How much do port captain jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for port captain in California is $99,255.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,800.00 and $119,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a port captain?

A port captain oversees the ships in a port to ensure they are ready for their voyages. As a port captain, your responsibilities include making sure you comply with all maritime safety protocols, crews are sufficient in size and qualifications, the proper equipment is on board, and the captain is doing their job properly. Your job is to see the smooth operation of the port and ensure that the ships in it are complying with safety and functionality requirements. Port captain is a very physical job, so in addition to having nautical expertise, you should be comfortable lifting heavy loads and working in inclement weather.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a port captain, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Port Captain, you need extensive maritime experience, a valid captain’s license (such as a USCG Master license), and in-depth knowledge of vessel operations and safety regulations. Familiarity with navigation systems, maritime communication tools, and compliance with international maritime laws is crucial. Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills help in managing crews and coordinating port activities efficiently. These abilities ensure safe, efficient vessel movements and regulatory compliance, which are vital for port operations and crew safety.

What are some common challenges a port captain faces when coordinating vessel operations?

Port Captains frequently encounter challenges such as ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations, managing tight vessel schedules, and coordinating communication between ship crews, port authorities, and logistics teams. Balancing operational efficiency while addressing unexpected issues like weather delays or mechanical problems is a key part of the role. Successful Port Captains rely on strong problem-solving skills and adaptability to maintain smooth operations and minimize costly disruptions.

What is the difference between Port Captain vs Marine Superintendent?

AspectPort CaptainMarine Superintendent
CredentialsMaritime certifications, licenses, experience in shippingMaritime certifications, engineering or technical background, experience in vessel management
Work EnvironmentPort operations, ship management, on-site at ports or shipsVessel oversight, technical management, office-based with site visits
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, port authorities, maritime firmsShipping companies, fleet operators, maritime agencies
Common Search/ComparisonPort Captain vs Marine Superintendent

The Port Captain and Marine Superintendent roles both involve vessel management and maritime operations, but the Port Captain primarily focuses on port operations, ship safety, and compliance at port sites. The Marine Superintendent oversees vessel maintenance, technical standards, and fleet management. Both roles require maritime certifications and experience, but their work environments and specific responsibilities differ, making them distinct yet related positions in the maritime industry.

How do you become a port captain?

To become a port captain, candidates typically need a maritime or related degree, extensive experience in ship operations, and relevant certifications such as STCW. Progressing through roles like deck officer or vessel supervisor helps build the necessary leadership and operational skills for this supervisory position.

How much do port captains make?

Port captains typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the port or shipping company. They often hold certifications such as STCW and have strong knowledge of maritime safety, navigation, and regulatory compliance.
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Port Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Port Captain job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,255 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Port Captain

HMM America Inc.

Oakland, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

GENERAL POSITION OVERVIEW

The Port Captain position has regional responsibilities for efficient and cost-effective terminal and vessel operations within the assigned region’s ports and marine terminals. Responsibilities include representing HMM with alliance members, lines, stevedores, vendors and ports to ensure smooth operations and fair treatment. Coordinate with vessel planners, agents, stevedores, terminals and vessels to ensure a cohesive vessel schedule and working plan is in place and understood by all. Additional responsibilities are managing boarding agents, vessel schedules and slot sharing agreements for the assigned region.


ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/DUTIES
  • Act as liaison between HASA Operations and terminal management.
  • Ensure that terminals / stevedores / reefer vendors are aware of changes to vessel rotation, phase in/out.
  • Review terminal billing for marine operations and verify accuracy (volume, rate, application of contract) for all vessel calls that carry HMM cargo.
  • Manage marine expenses in the region; provide first verification of invoices from marine vendors within the assigned region while focusing on cost reduction.
  • Work with AHQ Vessel Planner to ensure that operations of all HMM vessels are planned in a safe, economical, and timely manner, including vessel stowage and labor orders.
  • Monitor vessel operations for all Alliance vessel calls and work with AHQ Marine Ops to adjust as necessary to meet port call objectives.
  • Input arrival / departure times and TDR information (i.e. discharge figures, restows by line) for vessel calls.
  • Participate in developing strategy for negotiating competitive agreements with marine vendors, terminals and ports.
  • Estimate costs of loading / discharge for sales leads for all out-of-gauge and break-bulk cargo.
  • Work closely with member lines through Alliance (LOC or other) structure to develop tactical solutions and ensure smooth operations
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Additional Duties
  • Review partner line vessels activities for abnormalities to reduce service disruption and extra cost.
  • Review terminal performance compared to terminal contract to identify unnecessary costs and opportunities to improve
  • Schedule and attend LOC meetings in each port with partner lines on quarterly basis - continue to foster good communication between lines.
  • Report to HMM ROC member any findings that might be useful in ROC discussions.
  • Organize any break bulk operation including scheduling lashing and stowage survey.
  • Act as liaison for AHQ or Regional service center regarding equipment control, M&R, Hazardous, and Space Management etc.
  • Provide scheduled and adhoc reports as necessary.
  • Preview vessel prestow sent by AHQ Planner (review crane splits, haz, etc.) as necessary.
Region Specific Duties
  • Coordinate vessel calls with local agents to ensure that items requested (i.e. bunkers, lubes, stores, cash, and other services) are provided as needed.
  • Review master schedule for booking of vessels for Panama Canal. Keep close contact with booking agent to book vessels as needed.
QUALIFICATIONSESSENTIAL SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES
  • Extensive knowledge of container, vessel and terminal operations.
  • Advanced ability to self-manage and achieve objectives.
  • Maintain a continual improvement and positive change attitude.
  • Intermediate skills in Microsoft Office.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • High School diploma or GED required; Maritime Academy degree preferred.
  • At least 5 years of marine operations experience, including vessel planning.
ENVIRONMENT / EQUIPMENT / PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • Work performed in an office environment where the noise level is moderate. Regularly required to stand, sit, and walk around the office. Frequently required to work on a computer.
  • Capable to climb steep gangway/stairs for boarding vessels while wearing personal protective gear (hardhat, safety boots, safety glasses, vest).
  • Ability to maintain focus over long, non-standard hours of work and be on call 24x7.


Join HMM and navigate the future of shipping and logistics, where you’ll grow alongside an industry leader committed to sustainability, innovation, and excellence.

About HMM America Shipping Agency:
 HMM is a leading global shipping company operating over 130 state-of-the-art vessels encompassing more than 50 sea routes to over 100 ports of call. HMM strategically collaborates with customers to develop customized supply chain solutions for dry, refrigerated, and other specialized cargo.

HMM is currently ranked in the Top 8 global ocean carriers in terms of service network and market capacity. HMM has formed a global business network of vessels, terminals, railroads, trucks, and offices around the world. HMM is highly regarded as one of the world's top integrated logistics companies with a commitment to operational excellence by our team of industry professionals and state-of-the-art technology. 

Additional Details:

The pay range listed for this position is the anticipated starting salary or wage range, and the final offered rate will be based on individual merit and the relative compensation of employees in similar positions.  HMM employee benefits include highly subsidized individual and family insurance coverage (medical, dental and vision), term life and disability insurance, 401(k) employer matching contributions, paid holidays, and up to 10 vacation days and six sick days in the first year.

HMM provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or other legally protected characteristics. We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with legal requirements. HMM participates in the E-Verify program.