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Port Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

T. Parker Host

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 ...

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 ...

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Port Captain information

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$45.5K

$100.6K

$142K

How much do port captain jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 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 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.
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Port Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Port Captain job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $100,572 per year, or $48.4 per hour.
Part-Time Push Boat Captain

Part-Time Push Boat Captain

T. Parker Host

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description


Title: Push boat Captain

Status: Part-time

Company: Host Crewing, LLC

Reports To: 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 Mississippi River as one of the largest bulk terminals in the U.S. Gulf, specializing in coal and petcoke. This 1,200 acre property in Davant, Louisiana is capable of extensive loading, discharging and storage – with deep-water docks, fleeting capacity for 500 barges and over 40 pieces of heavy equipment to handle cargo loads.

Since the acquisition, HOST has made extensive improvements in systems and equipment, making the facility safer, more environmentally friendly, and more efficient to better serve our customers.

Position Summary: Responsible for safe navigation, and vessel & crew management, of push boats at United Bulk Terminals- Davant. Captains will coordinate and execute a rigorous daily schedule to support the facility, and customer needs as well as supervise daily, routine and emergency vessel maintenance.

Essential Responsibilities and Duties:

  • Responsible for the safe and reliable daily operation of their tug
    • Serve as primary tug vessel operator, safely maneuvering tug and barge(s) throughout the UBT fleet
    • Direct deckhands in docking & undocking maneuvers
    • Maintain tug records including vessel logbook and HELM
    • Coordinate and conduct scheduled drills with tug, crew and port captain
    • Ensure vessels are always clean and well maintained
  • Ensure daily barge inspection/checklists are being conducted and completed in HELM
  • Prepare for and participate in USCG required internal and external audits
  • Responsible for the safe and reliable daily operation of fleet of two (2) assists tugs
  • Coordinate between boat and shore side staff to ensure safe operation of barge movements in respect to daily schedule, weather, shore side-line handling, assist tug operation, and barge maintenance.
  • Responsible for deck side consumable and spare part requests.

Education, Knowledge, Experience, Skills and Abilities Required:

  • Minimum license: 200 Ton Master, inland, with towing and radar endorsement. (100 Tons with towing endorsement considered on a case-by-case basis)
  • Valid TWIC
  • Valid US Driver’s License
  • Previous experience as Master of a twin-screw tug engaged in fleet work
  • Excellent communication skills in order to communicate effectively/efficiently with crew members, shore staff, customer, and line handlers via VHF, email, and/or mobile phone
  • Ability to get along with crew members in confined quarters for prolonged periods of time
  • Must be able to direct, evaluate, and correct performance of subordinates
  • Ability to adapt to a variety of schedules and hours
  • Ability to work around the clock shifts and holidays and weekend.
  • Willingness and ability to be flexible and creative
  • Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Programs (Word, Excel, and Outlook), PDFs, HELM, and use of associated computer, printer/scanner, and work mobile phone.

Physical Requirements:

  • Physical Must meet “fit for duty” requirements upon job offer (pre-employment physical and drug test)
  • The employee must meet physical requirements including but not limited to, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, climbing up/down ladders and stairs, negotiating uneven and moving surfaces
  • Must be physically fit enough to pull heavy lines/hoses, lift, carry heavy items, climb onto barges and up and down ladders.
  • Must be able to work in difficult conditions with exposure to all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, wind, heat, etc.)
  • Must be comfortable working aboard boats and barges using heavy lines, winches, and mechanical tools for repairs
  • Ability to lift up to 75 pounds and work at protected heights up to 160 feet.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • Ability to conduct crew changes at the United Bulk Terminals - Davant

Core Principles: All team members must demonstrate an ability to adhere to and understand the core principles of the company. This team member must be able to provide value and depth to the Core Principles of Host.

  • Our people are our greatest assets.
  • Their safety is our top priority.
  • We provide exceptional service.
  • We believe every relationship is important.
  • We are detectives, understanding all activities within our markets.
  • We know today's opportunities are tomorrow's growth.
  • We conduct all business with integrity.
  • We build on our legacy.

Position Specific Behaviors:

  • Team player
  • Makes decisions and executes quickly
  • Honesty and integrity
  • Adaptable and flexible
  • Collaborative- works well with others
  • Excels in high growth, entrepreneurial and meritocratic environment

For more information, please visit www.tparkerhost.com or Apply Online Here