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Port Pilot Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Line Service Agent

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

$19.31/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Puts pilots and passengers first, providing friendly and professional service. Resilient ... Lee County Port Authority personnel are designated by tier levels and may be called upon to assist ...

Vessel Coordinator

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... port's staff members (i.e. General Managers, Operations Managers), tug crews, customers, agents, and docking pilots, as applicable, to effect the safest, most timely and advantageous use of company ...

Captain

Fort Lauderdale, FL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...

Captain

Saint Augustine, FL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...

Captain

Fort Myers Beach, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...

Captain

Saint Petersburg, FL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...

Captain

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...

Captain

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...

Captain

Tampa, FL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...

Captain

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...

Captain

Tampa, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...

Captain

Port Canaveral, FL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...

Captain

Fort Myers Beach, FL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...

Captain

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...

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Showing results 1-20

Port Pilot information

See Florida salary details

$37K

$97.8K

$150.2K

How much do port pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for port pilot in Florida is $97,833.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,700.00 and $115,800.00 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 Florida?

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

What job categories do people searching Port Pilot jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Port Pilot jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Port Pilot jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Port Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Port Pilot job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,833 per year, or $47 per hour.

$19.31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Lee County Port Authority rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

142nd of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Salary: $19.31 Hourly
Location : Page Field, 5200 Captain Channing Page Drive, Fort Myers, FL
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 00805
Department: Page Field
Opening Date: 08/05/2026
Closing Date: 8/19/2026 4:30 PM Eastern
About Us
About Us
Page Field (FMY), an FAA-designated reliever airport, provides services to general and business aviation and accommodated more than 160,000 aircraft operations in 2025. Base Operations at Page Field is an award-winning, fixed-based operator and has been recognized for its customer service and facilities.
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) is an award-winning, medium-hub commercial service airport that served more than a record-breaking 11.1 million passengers in 2025 and is one of the top 50 airports in the United States for passenger traffic. Fifteen airlines serve RSW with nonstop service to more than 70 markets, including Canada and Germany. The economic impact of the airport is $8.3 billion annually to the Southwest Florida region and more than 60,000 jobs.
The anticipated hourly starting rate for the ideal candidate is $19.31.
The Position
The Lee County Port Authority is seeking an energetic, highly motivated individual to join a great team with Base Operations at Page Field.
We are searching for someone who is:
  • A quick learner: Eager and able to learn our processes and master new skills quickly. Customer-centric: Puts pilots and passengers first, providing friendly and professional service. Resilient: Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
  • A strong communicator: Able to provide clear and concise instructions and communicate effectively with the team and clients
  • A problem-solver: Approaches challenges proactively and takes initiative to find solutions
  • A team player: Works collaboratively and is committed to contributing to a positive team environment

Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED)
  • A valid Florida driver's license within 30 days of hire
  • A minimum of one year of work experience in customer service or aviation related experience preferred
  • Must possess above-average customer service skills and have the ability to effectively communicate with others at all times
  • Position requires individual to work varying shifts, including days, nights, weekends, holidays and "on-call" scheduling, as necessary
  • Schedule restrictions may apply during seasonal timeframes
Key Responsibilities
  • Communicate effectively with pilots, flight crews, passengers, and tenants, to coordinate aircraft servicing
  • Operate fuel trucks and perform fueling of fixed-wing and rotary aircraft in accordance with industry standards, manufacturer specifications, and Lee County Port Authority fuel program procedures
  • Perform aircraft ground services including lavatory service, tire pressure checks, ground power unit operation, and general aircraft servicing
  • Assist with towing aircraft on the ramp and into or out of hangars using appropriate tugs and tow bars; secure aircraft in tie-down areas
  • Marshal aircraft and direct aircraft to designated parking areas
  • Inspect airfield materials and operating conditions and report discrepancies and assist with disabled aircraft or airfield emergencies as directed
  • Escort private and commercial personnel unfamiliar with airport grounds to ensure compliance with safety and security requirements
  • Perform minor building maintenance (restroom cleaning, spill cleanup); assists with groundskeeping (mowing, painting); and monitors email daily for essential communications
  • Collaborate with the maintenance team on landscaping and facility preservation projects, such as mowing, trimming, and painting, as operational needs dictate
  • Perform other duties as assigned
Emergency Response/Recovery Activities:
Lee County Port Authority personnel are designated by tier levels and may be called upon to assist with an emergency or unforeseen event at any time. Employees may be called to fulfill duties that are outside their normal scope of work to assist in resuming airport operations and flight activities.
Please review full job description here
Overview of Benefits
Florida Retirement System (FRS)
The Port Authority participates in the Florida Retirement System (FRS). Employees have the option of choosing between two retirement plans:
1) FRS Pension Plan - traditional retirement plan that offers a guaranteed monthly benefit upon vesting requirements
2) FRS Investment Plan - benefit is based on contributions made to the account and on investment performance. Both plans require eligible employees to contribute 3% per paycheck, while the employer contributes 13.59% for regular class or 37.74% for Special Risk, and 32.60% for Senior Management Service Class (SMSC).
Medical Insurance
The Port Authority offers two plan choices for all full-time employees, their legally married spouse and their dependents. Coverage begins the first of the month following their date of hire.
Dental Insurance
The Port Authority offers a dental plan for full time employees, their legally married spouse and children.
Vision Insurance
The Port Authority offers two (2) affordable plans options to select: Low and High Plan for full time employees, their legally married spouse and children.
Employee Assistance Program
The Port Authority provides this benefit at no cost to the employee. This is the availability of licensed professional counselors for personal issues with 100% confidentiality.
Flexible Spending Account(s)
There are two (2) types of FSA reimbursement accounts that allows contributions to be deducted from each paycheck before taxes to cover expense with pre-tax dollars. This lowers your taxable income. 1) Medical Expense Reimbursement - covers out-of-pocket expenses for medical, dental and/or vision expenses; 2) Dependent Care Reimbursement - covers daycare costs for dependent children under the age of 13 or elderly adult daycare.
Life /AD & D Insurance
The Port Authority provides this benefit at no cost to the employee. Employees are insured at an amount equal to the annual salary rounded to the next higher thousand dollars. The AD&D insurance provides additional coverage in the event the employee should lose their limb(s), eyesight or die.
Additional Life Insurance
The Port Authority provides the employee with an option to purchase additional life insurance coverage for him/herself, their spouse and their child(ren).
Short Term Disability
The Port Authority provides the employee with short term disability coverage for him/herself at no cost to the employee. Benefits are paid to 60% of salary up to nine (9) weeks.
Long Term Disability
The Port Authority provides this benefit at no cost to the employee. Benefits are paid up to 60% of the employee's salary after being disabled for 60 consecutive days.
Direct Deposit
The employee's payroll check is directly deposited into the bank of their choice.
Other Programs
457 Deferred compensation programs
Education reimbursement
On-site gym - RSW
Paid Time Off & Holidays
The Port Authority offers a generous amount of paid time off in addition to 11 paid holidays, and 1 personal day
01
This position requires availability for various shifts, including days, evenings, weekends and holidays, between the hours of 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Weekend work is a mandatory part of this role. Are you able to fulfill this requirement?
  • Yes
  • No

02
What attracted you to this position and why do you want to work for the Lee County Port Authority?
03
This is a customer service oriented position. Please provide examples of your customer service experience and your skills to handle customers in a high-paced environment.
04
How would you describe someone with a service personality or a desire to serve others?
05
What motivates you to work hard and be productive?
06
Are you willing to respond to after-hours calls between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. when required?
  • Yes
  • No

07
If selected as a Line Service Agent, you would be considered a Tier I employee. In the event of a storm or other significant event, you may be required to report to work during the pre-, intra- and post-event periods in a support role. Are you willing to report to work if called upon to do so?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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