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Port Captain Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

WI · On-site

$58 - $93/hr

As our Captain I, you'll help oversee a bustling, non-stop maritime operation. We run a dedicated ... Port Aransas 78373 Travel Yes, 5 % of the Time Shift : Rotating Shift Details : 40 Location ...

Mates are senior shipboard officers reporting directly to the Captain and are responsible for safe ... S. port routes in Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake Huron, and Lake Michigan. * Ability to perform the ...

Port Captain information

See Wisconsin salary details

$45.9K

$101.5K

$143.3K

How much do port captain jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for port captain in Wisconsin is $101,513.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,800.00 and $122,600.00 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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Port Captain jobs in Wisconsin?

For Port Captain jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Port Captain jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Port Captain jobs in Wisconsin are:

What are popular job titles related to Port Captain jobs in WI?

For Port Captain jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Port Captain job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,513 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Ferryboat Captain I

Txdot

WI • On-site

$58 - $93/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Description - Ferryboat Captain I (2602186)

Job Description

Position Information

Looking for a career where your leadership keeps Texas moving?

As our Captain I, you’ll help oversee a bustling, non-stop maritime operation. We run a dedicated fleet of eight ferries (three 20-car and five 28-car vessels) crossing the quarter-mile Corpus Christi Ship Channel between Harbor Island and Mustang Island. From smooth ten-minute daily commutes to managing peak summer tourist surges and critical hurricane evacuation planning, no two days are the same.

If you’re ready to bring your operational expertise to a supportive, high-performing team with incredible long-term stability, let's connect!

Minimum Salary

57,614.00

Maximum Salary

93,138.00

Pay Basis

Yearly FLSA Status : Nonexempt

Work Locations

Port Aransas Ferry Operations 619 W COTTER STREET CC SHIP CHANNEL, PTA/ARAN Port Aransas 78373

Travel

Yes, 5 % of the Time Shift : Rotating Shift Details : 40 Location Flexibility : Onsite

Benefits and Perks

At TxDOT, we value work-life balance and are committed to providing our employees with a comprehensive range of benefits and programs, including:

  • Retirement Plans
  • Alternative and/or Flexible Work Schedules
  • Paid Leave and Holidays
  • Health Premiums paid at 100% for Full-Time Employees
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Holistic Wellness Program with Leave Incentives
  • Career Development and Advancement Opportunities
  • Family-Friendly Policies and Programs

In 2024, TxDOT was recognized as a Best Place for Working Parents, and many of our offices statewide are also designated as Texas Mother-Friendly Worksites. These recognitions reflect our dedication to supporting families and promoting a healthy work-life balance.

For a complete list of our total compensation package please visit our website at: Total Compensation Package
To view benefits available to all State of Texas employees visit: Benefits at a Glance (ERS.texas.gov)

Performs as an experienced ferryboat captain of motor ferry vessels transporting crew members, public vehicles and passengers. Has total responsibility for decisions and/or actions affecting the safety and welfare of the vessel, crew, passengers, vehicles and other public properties. Has sole authority for the movement or non-movement of the vessel and the retention or expelling for cause, of crew members and/or passengers and their property from the vessel. Work requires constant contact with private entities. Employees at this level perform work independently on assignments; however all unusual issues are referred to the supervisor.

Provides general direction to deckhands involved in performance of deck evolutions (loading, unloading, security and minor cleaning and maintenance.)

Provides general direction to marine communications coordinators involved in public relations and land-to-sea communications.

Provides general direction to the watch engineer involved in performance of engineering watch and maintenance duties.

Takes charge of all ferry operations and support functions in the absence of the Ferry Operation Manager/Assistant and/or Ferry Supervisor, when directed.

Ensures strict compliance with the Federal Waters Pollution Control Act and the Federal Communications Commission Communications Act of 1934.

Ensures the daily inspection and report of the operating condition of all emergency fire fighting, lifesaving and childbirth equipment on the vessel.

Leads and trains ferry operations personnel as necessary.

Maintains and submits daily activity logs of vessel movements, traffic and passenger statistics and unusual occurrences or special events.

Navigates and maneuvers vessels in high density traffic areas and/or under all weather and sea conditions in accordance with Inland Navigation Rules of the Road and the rules of good seamanship.

Navigates in situations involving meetings/overtaking/crossing encounters with other vessels in times of darkness and light, high winds, extreme tide fluctuations, heavy ebb/flow currents, zero visibility and close proximity to shoal waters.

Reports to U.S. Coast Guard all incidents of marine, accident, injury or death occurring on the vessel while in his/her charge.

Responsible for the periodic conduct of all-hands emergency drills and exercises such as fire, collision, man overboard, fog navigation, grounding, bomb threat and emergency childbirth.

Serves as primary enforcement authority for State Regulations Governing Operation of the Ferries.

Submits reports on the above matters of the Ferry Operation Manager and/or staff as well as any other matters affecting the stability and/or operational capability of the vessel and all matters of consequence with the public.

Performs other job responsibilities as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: High School Grad or Equivalent in general high school studies.

Experience: 6 years in marine operations. (Experience can be satisfied by full time or prorated part time equivalent).

Graduation from a maritime academy will substitute for 5 years experience.

  • Valid driver’s license. This position requires driving a state vehicle.
  • Must have required US Coast Guard (USCG) certifications an/or documents appropriate for the position and vessel being operated.
  • USCG Lic-Mas-S&L Ves-100 Tons > (Must have at the time of application).
  • Transportation Worker ID Cred-TWIC (Must have at the time of application).
  • Applicable industry safety standards, guidelines and specification codes.

Applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

  • Leading, assigning, reviewing, and monitoring the work of others.
  • Preparing and maintaining confidential and sensitive records, files and reports.
  • Training in a classroom, office, or field environment.
  • Maintaining a safe working relationship.
  • Maintaining a safe working environment.

Ability to:

  • Work in varying conditions to include heavy traffic, overhead power lines and underground utilities.

Work in cramped spaces (bend, stoop, crawl) and at varied heights.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

  • Subject to outside environmental conditions; no effective weather protection.
  • Subject to extreme cold and heat; below 32 and/or above 100 degrees for more than one hour.
  • Subject to noise.
  • Subject to vibration.
  • Required to wear protective gear-respirator, hard hat, or other device.
  • Works frequently in small/crawl spaces; manholes; areas that can cause claustrophobia.
  • Works in narrow aisles or passageways.
  • Medium work: Lift up to 50 lbs. at a time and frequently lift or carry objects up to 25 lbs.
  • Balancing-walking, standing, crouching on various surfaces without falling.
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