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Relief Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BUFFALO MARINE SERVICE INC

Wheelman

Houston, TX · On-site

The Relief Captain serves as Pilot when the Master is on the vessel, and serves as the Master when the Master is at home. The Master/Relief/Pilot must be able to intercede and safely perform the ...

BUFFALO MARINE SERVICE INC

Wheelman

Houston, TX

The Relief Captain serves as Pilot when the Master is on the vessel, and serves as the Master when the Master is at home. The Master/Relief/Pilot must be able to intercede and safely perform the ...

Dann Marine Towing

AB Deckhand

Chesapeake City, MD · On-site

The AB Deckhand is directly responsible and accountable to the Captain or Relief Captain, working directly under them and following instructions. Deckhand duties vary from vessel to vessel and from ...

L&M Botruc Rental LLC

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Offshore Supply Vessel Captain

Mobile, AL · On-site

$625 - $725/day

Prior leadership experience as a Captain, Master, Relief Captain, or Mate. Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is a seasoned maritime professional who understands the demands of offshore vessel ...

L&M Botruc Rental LLC

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Offshore Supply Vessel Captain

Pensacola, FL · On-site

$625 - $725/day

Prior leadership experience as a Captain, Master, Relief Captain, or Mate. Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is a seasoned maritime professional who understands the demands of offshore vessel ...

L&M Botruc Rental LLC

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Offshore Supply Vessel Captain

Pascagoula, MS · On-site

$625 - $725/day

Prior leadership experience as a Captain, Master, Relief Captain, or Mate. Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is a seasoned maritime professional who understands the demands of offshore vessel ...

Wood Resources, LLC

Towing Deckhand

Avondale, LA

Job Responsibilities: * Assist and support the Captain, Relief Captain or Watch Captain in ensuring compliance with all current federal,state and local regulatory requirements. * Perform vessel ...

Wood Resources, LLC

Towing Deckhand

Avondale, LA · On-site

Job Responsibilities: * Assist and support the Captain, Relief Captain or Watch Captain in ensuring compliance with all current federal,state and local regulatory requirements. * Perform vessel ...

Vitus Energy, LLC

Port Captain

Anchorage, AK

The Port Captain provides safety leadership and ensures compliance with company policy and ... Fills in as emergency relief crew * Promotes regular communication between the Vitus Marine ...

New

Vitus Energy LLC

Port Captain

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Fills in as emergency relief crew * Provides prompt response to crew questions, concerns, and ... Vessel captains * Shares information with other Vitus vessels to ensure safe and profitable ...

New

Blessey Marine

Deckhand

New Orleans, LA · On-site

Captain, Relief Captain and Pilot Supervises: Thisposition has no supervisory responsibilities. SUMMARYDESCRIPTION: Responsible for the safe, efficient, reliable,and environmentally compliant ...

Crescent

Banquet Captain

Horseshoe Bay, TX · On-site

Banquet Captain Position Summary The Banquet Captain oversees the successful execution of banquet ... Associate Relief Fund *Golf and amenity privileges are subject to occupancy and business levels.

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Relief Captain information

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$48

How much do relief captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for relief captain in the United States is $25.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Relief Captain vs Fire Captain?

AspectRelief CaptainFire Captain
CertificationsFirefighter certification, EMT/Paramedic license often requiredFirefighter certification, EMT/Paramedic license often required
Work EnvironmentTemporary or substitute role, often covering shifts or absencesLead firefighting team, manage fireground operations
Employer & IndustryFire departments, emergency servicesFire departments, emergency services

Relief Captains serve as temporary or substitute leaders within fire departments, filling in for Fire Captains when needed. They share similar certifications and work environments but do not typically hold the same leadership responsibilities. Fire Captains are permanent leaders responsible for managing firefighting teams and fireground operations. Both roles require comparable credentials and are integral to emergency response teams.

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

To thrive as a Relief Captain, you need a valid captain's license, extensive maritime experience, and strong navigation and vessel operation skills. Familiarity with electronic chart systems (ECS), GPS navigation, radar, and maritime safety regulations is essential, along with certifications like STCW and First Aid/CPR. Excellent leadership, decision-making, and communication skills help manage crew dynamics and respond effectively in emergency situations. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of vessels, especially when stepping in for regular captains.

What are Relief Captains?

Relief Captains are licensed professionals who temporarily take command of a vessel, such as a ship or boat, when the regular captain is unavailable due to leave, illness, or other reasons. They ensure the safe and efficient operation of the vessel, manage the crew, and oversee navigation and compliance with maritime regulations. Relief Captains may work on various types of vessels, including commercial ships, ferries, or offshore platforms. Their role is crucial in maintaining continuity of leadership and safety at sea.

How does a Relief Captain typically transition into command on a vessel, and what are the main challenges during this handover period?

A Relief Captain usually steps in when the regular captain is on leave or unavailable, requiring a smooth handover to maintain operational continuity. The transition often involves detailed briefings on current voyages, crew dynamics, ongoing maintenance, and any immediate safety or regulatory concerns. One of the main challenges is quickly building trust with the crew and adapting to the vessel’s specific protocols while ensuring compliance with company and maritime regulations. Effective communication and strong leadership are essential during this period to address any uncertainties and maintain high standards of safety and performance.
More about Relief Captain jobs
What states have the most Relief Captain jobs? States with the most job openings for Relief Captain jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Relief Captain jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Relief Captain jobs are:
Relief Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Relief Captain job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Wheelman

Wheelman

BUFFALO MARINE SERVICE INC

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

General Job Responsibilities
The Master/Relief/Pilot is the manager of the vessel including all attached barges. The Master/Relief/Pilot is responsible for the crew's adherence to all United States Coast Guard and company policies. The Master/Relief/Pilot navigates safely, supervises the crew, oversees safety programs, complies with rules and regulations pertaining to the towing of vessels and protects the environment. The Master/Relief/Pilot takes work assignments from the Operational Department. The Pilot backs up the Master, serving as supervisor when the Master is asleep and has management and supervisory responsibility while on watch. The Relief Captain serves as Pilot when the Master is on the vessel, and serves as the Master when the Master is at home. The Master/Relief/Pilot must be able to intercede and safely perform the essential functions of any job on the vessel to include the job tasks of a deckhand and Tankerman. The Master/Relief Captain/Pilot is responsible for the safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant operation of assigned area. Employee's key job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Trains and supervises the crew in the safe and efficient performance of duties;
  • Evaluates performance of all crewmembers with river crews consisting of 7 to 10 members and canal crews consisting of 4 to 5 members;
  • Navigates in rivers or canals by properly using steering controllers, throttles, radar compasses, short wave radios, depth finders, loud hailers and other equipment to transport tow to a destination;
  • Uses radio communication and vision to navigate waterways, docks, locks, and other vessel traffic;
  • Supervises the cleaning and maintenance of boat and tow; the loading, transport, and discharging of cargo;
  • Adheres to company policies, United States Coast Guard and environmental regulations;
  • Acts as a company representative in the day-to-day dealings with customers at their facilities and with representatives of governmental agencies;
  • Acts as the on-site coordinator in emergencies;
  • On smaller vessels performs routine engine room maintenance such as changing oil, checking oil, and changing fuel filters.

Minimum Job Qualifications:
Applicant must be able to:
  • Navigate vessel safely by properly operating navigational controls, propulsion, engines, gears, mechanical and electrical equipment under various environmental conditions.
  • Read - read office updates, procedure manuals, safety memos, federal and state documents, manifests, and requisitions.
  • Write - keeps the vessel logs, completes checklists, and takes written exams as required by the company and/ or governmental agencies.
  • Interpret, understand and use maps and charts.
  • Communicate with Dispatcher, crewmembers, other Master/ Relief Captain/ Pilots, Port Engineers, Coast Guard Inspectors and others.
  • Direct crew to complete actions and follow regulations in a safe, efficient manner.
  • Resolve disputes among crewmembers.
  • Maintain morale of crewmembers.
  • Consider many conditions, including weather, vessel and waterway characteristics, traffic, and the abilities of the crew in the making of quick, effective decisions about navigation and the operation of the vessel.
  • Evaluate and treat minor medical conditions and injuries within the scope of his or her knowledge and abilities.
  • Remain calm during challenging situations and set the "tone" for the safe, positive, efficient functioning of all members of the crew.
  • Possess a United States Coast Guard Boat License and/ or marine document for vessel operated.
  • Possess a valid driver's license for operation of any of the company's vehicles.
  • Demonstrate leadership by persuading others to perform work because they want to do it.
  • Make good decisions, be dependable, be conscientious, and show initiative.
  • Pay attention to detail and be willing to adhere to orders, rules, and regulations.
  • Work as a team player-i.e., work with others and understand customer/ supplier wants and needs.
  • Be mentally and physically stable under pressure and withstand the stress associated with the job, including discomfort, unpredictable weather and potentially hazardous situations.
  • Work aboard vessel for prolonged periods according to work schedule for the vessel, for example: 20 days on and 10 days off or 14 days on and 7 days off.
  • Work shifts of 6-12 hours around the clock and work additional hours if necessary.
  • Maintain vigilance during 6-12 hour shift in the wheelhouse.
  • Willing to work, as operations require, including days.
  • Live in close quarters and be able to work away from home for long periods of time.
  • Be drug and alcohol free while on company property during course and scope of company business.
  • Pass USCG Physical and MRI Exam

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