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Port Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Must have five years as a tugboat captain or shoreside management experience. Ocean towing is preferred. Must possess a valid USCG Masters License or Mates License at a minimum. COMPENSATION: Pay for ...

Must have five years as a tugboat captain or shoreside management experience. Ocean towing is preferred. Must possess a valid USCG Masters License or Mates License at a minimum. COMPENSATION: Pay for ...

Must have five years as a tugboat captain or shoreside management experience. Ocean towing is preferred. Must possess a valid USCG Masters License or Mates License at a minimum. COMPENSATION: Pay for ...

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 ...

Port Captain

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$96K - $120K/yr

Must have five years as a tugboat captain or shoreside management experience. Ocean towing is preferred. Must possess a valid USCG Masters License or Mates License at a minimum. COMPENSATION: Pay for ...

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 ...

Must have five years as a tugboat captain or shoreside management experience. Ocean towing is preferred. Must possess a valid USCG Masters License or Mates License at a minimum. Compensation: Pay for ...

Open communication with Port Captain and management. Rotation: * 28 days on duty , 14 days off Credentials/Requirements: * Merchant Mariner 200 Ton Master upon Oceans with a Master of Towing ...

Open communication with Port Captain and management. Rotation: * 28 days on duty , 14 days off Credentials/Requirements: * Merchant Mariner 200 Ton Master upon Oceans with a Master of Towing ...

Must have five years as a tugboat captain or shoreside management experience. Ocean towing is preferred. Must possess a valid USCG Masters License or Mates License at a minimum. COMPENSATION: Pay for ...

UBT Davant Port Captain Supervises: Tug Deckhands and any other on-board crew Location: United Bulk Terminals, Davant In 2019, T. Parker Host acquired United Bulk Terminals (UBT) on Mile 55 of the ...

UBT Davant Port Captain Supervises: Tug Deckhands and any other on-board crew Location: United Bulk Terminals, Davant In 2019, T. Parker Host acquired United Bulk Terminals (UBT) on Mile 55 of the ...

UBT Davant Port Captain Supervises: Tug Deckhands and any other on-board crew Location: United Bulk Terminals, Davant In 2019, T. Parker Host acquired United Bulk Terminals (UBT) on Mile 55 of the ...

Showing results 21-40

Port Captain information

See salary details

$45.5K

$100.6K

$142K

How much do port captain jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for port captain in the United States is $100,572.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,000.00 and $121,500.00 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 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 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, working in maritime environments with irregular schedules.
What cities are hiring for Port Captain jobs? Cities with the most Port Captain job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Port Captain jobs? The most popular types of Port Captain jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Port Captain jobs? The top employers for Port Captain jobs are:
What states have the most Port Captain jobs? States with the most job openings for Port Captain jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Port Captain jobs? For Port Captain jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Port Captain job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,572 per year, or $48.4 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Responsible for supervising and coordinating all phases of operations relating to the division tugs and barges. Includes direct supervision of Deck Officers and Deckhands. Involved in selection, promotion and training, crewing, governmental and state regulatory and safety compliance standards, budget development & management, casualty investigations, vessel repair, coordination of vessel schedules and operations, and developing and executing operating standards designed to ensure regulatory compliance of personnel and vessels consistent with company policies.

Essential Functions: 

Supervision
  • Directs and supervises all offshore marine employees.
  • Interfaces with customers, marine & shoreside employees, vendors, pilots, and regulatory officials.
  • Develops, implements and enforces policies and procedures.
  • Responsible for hiring, crewing, promotions, personnel placement. Directs training as pertains to marine personnel.
  • Supervises responsibilities and performance of vessel personnel.
  • Audits vessel logs and approves overtime.
  • Assists with utilization and scheduling of tugs and barges in fleet.
  • Initiates appropriate corrective and/or disciplinary action.
  • Supervises personnel involved in field projects including special shipments and salvage operations.
  • Responsible for vessel compliance with the pro-forma schedule, communication of schedule to appropriate parties.
Compliance
  • Ensures compliance with company SOP's, regulatory, licensing, and training requirements.
  • Investigates and reports the causes and effects of marine incidents.
  • Ensures compliance of company safety policies, maintenance and training programs.
  • Conducts regular inspections of tugs and barges to ensure compliance with company SMS
  • Complies with company Preventative Maintenance Program.
  • Complies with applicable Federal, State and Local regulations, including, but not limited to: USCG, EPA, ISM, ABS, OSHA and OSPR.
Administrative
  • Prepares budgets and manages vessel's supply and crew costs.
  • Prepares Towing and/or Operations Plans for ISO compliance.
  • Supervises vessel modifications, rigging and supply.
  • Interprets and administers government regulations.
  • Assists in negotiation and implementation of labor contracts.
  • Effectively communicates regional goals and objectives.
  • Provides direction and leadership to achieve company Core Values, Mission and Safety Vision.
  • Processes employee evaluations in a timely manner.
  • Directs, motivates and develops employees for maximum performance.
  • Performs special duties and other projects as assigned.
  • Adheres to all company policies.
  • Accomplishes all tasks as appropriately assigned or requested.
Supervisory and Leadership of Direct Staff
  • Be a leader for "SpeakUp", including encouraging peers and staff to exhibit a safe and ethical culture.
  • Responsible for all matters of employment including recruiting, training, development, promotion, discipline and termination.
  • Understands and complies with Foss' Affirmative Action Plan, EEO, Non-Discrimination, Harassment, and all other HR policies and procedures.
  • Effectively communicates regional goals and objectives.
  • Provides direction and leadership to achieve company Core Values, Mission and Safety Vision.
  • Processes employee evaluations in a timely manner.
  • Directs, motivates and develops employees for maximum performance.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 
  • Technical: Must have a strong maritime background with a thorough understanding of the day-to-day operations of vessels, their limits, their capabilities and both internal characteristics and external factors influencing them. Must also understand the individual roles, interactions and responsibilities of crewmembers manning the vessels.
  • Legal: Ability to interpret, administer and insure compliance with government regulations related to vessel manning, construction, maintenance & repair, safety, training, navigation, work rules, emergency response, licensing and towing operations.
  • Financial: Should understand at a minimum, basic cost accounting, budgeting, forecasting and financial planning processes to effectively manage multiple budgets on a routine basis. Good organizational and planning skills are essential.
  • Communications: Must possess strong written and oral communicative skills to draft business letters, develop reports, present oral presentations, create policies & procedures and write repair specifications.
  • Customer Relations: Should have good interpersonal skills to work well with customers, peers, superiors, subordinates, competitors and the general public. Should also have a strong appreciation for and be sensitive to the needs of our customers recognizing that the Company is a specialty service provider.
  • Human Relations: Must be a team player but at the same time be willing to exercise authority when required. A coach-type management style is most effective. Strong decision making and problem solving abilities are a must. Should have good negotiating skills to deal with regulators, customers, vendors and labor unions.
  • Personal Traits: Must be flexible and receptive to change. Must have ability to deviate from established routines on short notice and be able to recognize the level of importance of new assignments. Must be able to prioritize tasks accordingly to meet deadlines without sacrificing operational quality. Must be able to delegate effectively. Must be accurate in completion of assignments. Must be dedicated and loyal.
  • Sensory: Must have reasonable sensory skills in order to maintain USCG license including color vision, depth perception, hand/eye coordination and hearing; and be proficient in the English language.
  • Interpersonal Skills: Ability to communicate effectively with dispatchers and all levels and personalities. Must be able to work effectively under stress and provide strong supervision in emergency response situations. Participates in negotiations with labor unions, customers and vendors. Provides direct supervision of other managers and subordinates on a day-to-day basis. Works closely with customers, peers, competitors, government officials and vendors. Should have good team building skills and ability to motivate others. Must effectively process sensitive and confidential information. Regularly coordinates activities with members of other departments.
  • Equipment: Telephones, calculators, computers, copiers, fax machines, radios, navigation equipment, including radar, GPS and autopilot.
  • Proficient in computer skills and software such as Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and all applicable enterprise business platforms.
  • Must have extensive knowledge of offshore towing operations and harbor ship assist work.
  • Must have experience working on twin screw and tractor tugs.
  • Planning and forecasting skills relative to business trends, vessel management, and cost projections.
  • Ability to demonstrate high ethical standards of honesty and integrity to lead by example.
  • Ability to delegate and empower employees to achieve business goals and operational standards.
  • Knowledge of business management principles and practices.
  • Knowledge of repair and replacement costs essential to effective cost control.
  • Knowledge of labor law, contract negotiation, and implementation of labor contracts.
  • Must be able to provide functional direction to Deck Officers in charge of company vessels.
  • Provide direction to Customer Service Representatives in the scheduling of vessel crews.
  • Must have the ability to coordinate the efficient use of vessel and shoreside assets between geographic areas and activities.
  • Ability to assist in cost planning, reporting, and operational expenditures in the region.
  • Must be able to gain an intimate familiarity with company lines of business, reporting and monitoring of financial performance.
  • Ability to understand and interpret laws and regulations as they apply to the maritime business.
  • Must be able to build and maintain effective working relationships with regulatory agencies including, but not limited to, U.S. Coast Guard, ABS, OSHA, OSPR and other local, state and federal agencies.
Minimum Requirements: 

Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university, preference given to those from a maritime academy, is required or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Must have five years as a tugboat captain or shoreside management experience. Ocean towing is preferred. Must possess a valid USCG Masters License or Mates License at a minimum.

COMPENSATION: Pay for this position ranges from $96,089.00 to $120,111.00. This is an exempt position.

Young Brothers is an Equal Opportunity - Affirmative Action Employer and a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We are committed to a diverse workforce and taking affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. Young Brothers is a drug-free employer and a participant of the E-Verify Employment Verification Program.

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