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Port Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Title C/KC-130 Pilot KBR is seeking a highly qualified C/KC-130 Pilot to support tasking at the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) with Air Test and Evaluation Squadron THREE ZERO (VX ...

Join our team as a Port Operations Agent where you are expected to independently oversee agency ... arranging pilots, line handlers and stevedores, coordinating ship clearance with government ...

Interfaces with customers, marine & shoreside employees, vendors, pilots, and regulatory officials. * Develops, implements and enforces policies and procedures. * Responsible for hiring, crewing ...

Interfaces with customers, marine & shoreside employees, vendors, pilots, and regulatory officials. * Develops, implements and enforces policies and procedures. * Responsible for hiring, crewing ...

Interfaces with customers, marine & shoreside employees, vendors, pilots, and regulatory officials. * Develops, implements and enforces policies and procedures. * Responsible for hiring, crewing ...

Port Captain

Richmond, CA · On-site

$125.96 - $188.94/hr

Interfaces with customers, marine & shoreside employees, vendors, pilots, and regulatory officials. * Develops, implements and enforces policies and procedures. * Responsible for hiring, crewing ...

New

Pilot 135' MDUSV's in and out of port or at sea when operating in a manned configuration. * Operate, maintain and monitor HM&E systems while in port and at sea (onboard and remotely). * Manage ...

New

Junior Ship Master

San Diego, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Pilot 135' MDUSV's in and out of port or at sea when operating in a manned configuration.    * Operate, maintain and monitor HM&E systems while in port and at sea (onboard and remotely). 

New

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Port Pilot information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$129.2K

$198.4K

How much do port pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for port pilot in California is $129,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,700.00 and $153,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a port pilot?

Port Pilots, also known as maritime pilots or harbor pilots, are highly skilled mariners responsible for navigating ships safely in and out of ports, harbors, and through challenging waterways. They board incoming vessels and use their expert knowledge of local tides, currents, weather, and navigational hazards to guide ships to their berths or out to sea. Their role is critical for preventing accidents and ensuring the smooth and safe flow of maritime traffic.

What are the main challenges port pilots face during vessel navigation and docking operations?

Port Pilots often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, strong currents, and limited visibility, all of which can complicate safe navigation and docking. They must also coordinate closely with tug crews, harbor masters, and vessel captains to ensure precise maneuvers in often crowded or narrow waterways. Effective communication, quick decision-making, and adaptability are essential skills for managing these dynamic situations and ensuring the safety of both vessels and port infrastructure.

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

To thrive as a Port Pilot, you need in-depth knowledge of maritime navigation, vessel maneuvering, and local waterways, typically gained through extensive seafaring experience and a valid Pilot’s license. Familiarity with radar, GPS navigation systems, electronic chart displays, and communication equipment is essential for safely guiding ships. Excellent situational awareness, decisive problem-solving, and clear communication with ship crews and harbor authorities are standout soft skills. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe vessel passage, preventing accidents, and maintaining efficient port operations.

What is the difference between Port Pilot vs Marine Pilot?

AspectPort PilotMarine Pilot
CredentialsLicenses, certifications in port operations and navigationSimilar licenses, often including maritime licenses and navigation certifications
Work EnvironmentPort facilities, ships, and harbor areasOpen waters, ships, and maritime environments
Employer & IndustryPort authorities, shipping companies, harbor authoritiesShipping lines, maritime agencies, port authorities

Both Port Pilots and Marine Pilots are essential for safe navigation of ships, but Port Pilots typically operate within port areas guiding ships in harbor, while Marine Pilots often work in open waters assisting ships during transit or docking. The roles overlap in credentials and industry usage, but their work environments differ significantly.

How much does a port pilot get paid?

Port pilots typically earn between $150,000 and $300,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the port. They often work long hours and require specialized certifications and local knowledge to navigate ships safely into port.

What does a port pilot do?

A port pilot is a maritime professional responsible for navigating ships through port waters, including entering and leaving harbors. They use local knowledge, navigational skills, and tools like radar and charts to ensure safe passage, often working closely with ship crews and port authorities. Pilots typically hold specialized certifications and are required to have extensive experience in maritime navigation.

What qualifications do you need to be a port pilot?

To become a port pilot, candidates typically need a maritime or engineering background, extensive experience as a ship officer, and a valid license or certification issued by maritime authorities. They must also demonstrate strong navigation skills, knowledge of local waterways, and often pass physical and medical examinations. Additional training and on-the-job experience are essential for certification as a port pilot.

What are popular job titles related to Port Pilot jobs in California?

For Port Pilot jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Port Pilot job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,202 per year, or $62.1 per hour.

KC-130 Pilot (Port Hueneme)

KBR Careers

Port Hueneme, CA • On-site

$155K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Title

C/KC-130 Pilot

KBR is seeking a highly qualified C/KC-130 Pilot to support tasking at the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) with Air Test and Evaluation Squadron THREE ZERO (VX-30) at NAS Point Mugu, CA. As part of the world’s largest independent flight test organization, supporting both US Government and commercial agencies, you will be joining a highly talented and experienced aircrew services team that has provided over 40 continuous years of Test Aircrew support for NAVAIR. As a long‑term incumbent and leader in test aircrew expertise, the selected applicant will work within the VX‑30 environment composed of government, military, contractor, and industry personnel while supporting flight test and range support operations.

Roles & Responsibilities
  • This position serves as a pilot for C/KC-130 aircraft, supporting flight test, aerial refueling, logistics, and post‑maintenance check flights as an Aircraft Commander across legacy C‑130 platforms.
  • Directs aircraft operations planning, scheduling, execution, and reporting in support of collateral tasks within the customer flight program.
  • Upon qualification, performs duties as an instructor for all applicable K/C‑130 mission sets, including aerial refueling, logistics, and post‑maintenance check flying.
  • Must be able to travel up to 25% as required by contract.
  • This is a full‑time position, but highly qualified part‑time applicants may be considered.
Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s Degree.
  • At least 10 years of related experience, including 3 or more years of Test Project Officer experience in military test and evaluation.
  • Minimum of 1,000 pilot hours in the C‑130 aircraft and designated as an Aircraft Commander in the C‑130. Instructor experience or designation as a flight crew check pilot and a Type/Model/Series Instructor in C/KC‑130J and/or Legacy C‑130 aircraft platforms.
  • Must maintain an FAA Class II medical certificate or Navy Aeromedical Standard Service Group 1. Must be FAA or Military instrument flight rule certified and have at least an FAA Commercial Pilot’s License with Multi‑Engine Land rating.
  • Must meet current CNAF 3710.7 series physical and physiological minimums for C‑130 T/M/S aircrew positions.
  • Individuals must be able to pass the physical and training qualification requirements to provide contract aircrew support, including completion of survival and aviation physiology training.
  • Clearance & Citizenship: Must have a current DoD Secret Clearance or ability to obtain and maintain. Contract requires US Citizenship. Applicant selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master’s degree. Engineering related masters preferred.
  • Minimum of 1,500 flight hours as Pilot‑in‑Command.
  • 2 years direct experience in test and evaluation of fixed‑wing aircraft.
  • A graduate of one of the following test pilot schools: USNTPS, USAFTPS, Empire Test Pilot School, or EPNER Test Pilot School.
Scheduled Weekly Hours

40 hours/week. This is a full‑time position, but highly qualified part‑time applicants may be considered.

Compensation

$155,000–$225,000. The salary range posted is based on the national average. The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate’s location, knowledge, skills, abilities, and/or experience, contract affordability, and in consideration of internal parity.

Additional Compensation

KBR may offer bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation to certain job titles or levels per internal policy or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of a sign‑on bonus, relocation benefits, short‑term incentives, long‑term incentives, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance.

KBR Benefits

KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.

Equity and Diversity

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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