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Port Captain Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

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Port Captain information

See Delaware salary details

$45.5K

$100.7K

$142.1K

How much do port captain jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for port captain in Delaware is $100,659.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,100.00 and $121,600.00 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 Port Captains?

Port Captains are maritime professionals responsible for overseeing the operations of vessels in a specific port or area. They ensure that ships comply with all regulations, coordinate logistics such as crew changes and cargo handling, and act as liaisons between ships, port authorities, and company management. Port Captains play a crucial role in maintaining safety standards, efficiency, and smooth port operations. Their expertise helps prevent delays and ensures that vessels are well-maintained and properly staffed while in port.

How much does a port captain earn?

A port captain's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the shipping or logistics company. They often require certifications such as STCW and have strong leadership and communication skills to manage port operations effectively.

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.

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 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.

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 knowledge of safety regulations and navigation. Many port captains also obtain certifications such as STCW and develop strong leadership and communication skills. Progression often involves advancing from roles like ship officer or supervisor to a port captain position.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Port Captains typically do not earn $4,000 weekly without significant experience and industry-specific certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include skilled trades like commercial fishing, offshore drilling, or certain sales roles, but these usually require specialized skills, licenses, or extensive experience. Most roles paying this amount consistently without a degree are rare and often involve high risk or physical demands.

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 leadership and navigation skills, with some positions offering additional benefits like overtime pay or bonuses.
More about Port Captain jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Port Captain jobs in Delaware? The most popular types of Port Captain jobs in Delaware are:
What are popular job titles related to Port Captain jobs in Delaware? For Port Captain jobs in Delaware, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Port Captain jobs in Delaware look for? The top searched job categories for Port Captain jobs in Delaware are:
What cities in Delaware are hiring for Port Captain jobs? Cities in Delaware with the most Port Captain job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Port Captain jobs in DE? For Port Captain jobs in DE, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Port Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Port Captain job openings in Delaware as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $100,659 per year, or $48.4 per hour.

Vessel Operations Supervisor

Enstructure Wilmington

Wilmington, DE • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

About Port Wilmington:

Port Wilmington is a leading terminal on the East Coast strategically located in Wilmington, Delaware providing turnkey vertically integrated logistics services for containers, dry bulk, and breakbulk products.

SUMMARY OF POSITION:

Provides guidance and direction to Union Labor Workforce (ILA). Assists in planning daily work schedule and directs associates to assure accurate, efficient, and timely delivery, proper inventory control, and prompt and effective response to customer requests. Trains associates in facility and company policies and procedures.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Maintains a firm hand on all aspects of operations and maintains an effective balance of communication between management, supervision, and all production and support personnel.
  • Identifies training requirements and ensures that all personnel possesses: technical job proficiency and an understanding of their roles, responsibilities, and performance goals.
  • Schedules and shifts personnel to ensure efficient work teams. Initiates cross-training to ensure the achievement of productivity goals.
  • Ensures proper documentation and records in associate performance, safety, etc.
  • Ensures compliance with safety, sanitation, and security procedures.
  • Initiates work orders and reports to maintenance equipment and, or facility needs.
  • Coordinates with Port Captain and, or Cargo Officer on stowage, loading, and discharging operations.
  • Continuously visually inspects loading and unloading gear and equipment to ensure compliance with safety and governmental
  • As a member of the management staff assumes various additional projects or tasks as necessary.
  • Additional duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

  • Experience handling and supervising associates on multiple types of cargo, especially breakbulk
  • Understands specialized rigging and cargo handling gear
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Excellent safety record
  • Able to train new employees
  • Able to motivate and build morale within the group
  • Ability to supervise, train and hold associates accountable for performance and results
  • Warehouse and stevedoring experience
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license and a 3-year driving history that is acceptable to our auto insurance carrier.

COMPETENCIES:

  • Verbal comprehension

Understand oral and written communications, both general and technical.

  • Communication skills

Provide clear instructions/directions.

  • Reasoning skills

Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

  • Time Management

Values time and manages time effectively. Effectively prioritizes and can manage a broad range of activities.

  • Proficiency

Microsoft Office applications

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, handle objects, reach with hands and arms, and write, talk, type, and hear. The associate is occasionally required to sit, stoop, bend, or kneel and lift and, or move up to 35 lbs. The associate is typically in a warehouse or an outdoor environment but will find him/herself in an office environment from time to time.

ANTICIPATED PERCENT OF TRAVEL:

0%-10%