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Research Vessels Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CARDINAL POINT CAPTAINS INC

Vessel Captain

Galveston, TX · On-site

$34 - $43/hr

The Captain carries out the following vessel operations and maintenance support services: 1. Comply ... of the research vessels. Support emergent repairs to all FGBNMS small boats and pier if/when ...

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How much do research vessels captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for research vessels 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 a research vessels captain?

Research Vessels Captains are highly trained mariners responsible for operating and overseeing ships that conduct scientific research at sea. Their duties include navigating the vessel, ensuring the safety of the crew and scientists on board, and coordinating research activities in cooperation with scientific teams. They must comply with maritime laws, manage ship maintenance, and often play a key role in the success of oceanographic, environmental, or fisheries research missions. Typically, they hold advanced maritime certifications and have extensive experience in ship operations.

What are some unique challenges faced by captains of research vessels compared to commercial shipping captains?

Captains of research vessels encounter distinct challenges, such as adapting to diverse scientific missions that require specialized equipment and precise navigation to remote or sensitive environments. They must also coordinate closely with onboard scientists, balancing research objectives with safety and maritime regulations. Unlike commercial shipping, research voyages often involve flexible schedules, dynamic routes, and frequent adjustments based on ongoing research needs, requiring strong problem-solving skills and adaptability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research vessels captain, and why are they important?

A Research Vessels Captain must possess advanced maritime navigation skills, a valid captain's license (such as a USCG Master license), and thorough knowledge of maritime regulations and safety procedures. Familiarity with shipboard scientific equipment, navigation systems (like ECDIS and radar), and emergency response protocols is essential. Excellent leadership, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication are critical soft skills for managing crew and collaborating with research teams. These competencies ensure the safe operation of the vessel, successful completion of scientific missions, and the well-being of everyone on board.

What is the difference between Research Vessels Captain vs Marine Pilot?

AspectResearch Vessels CaptainMarine Pilot
CredentialsMaritime licenses, captain's license, specialized training in research operationsMarine pilot license, extensive maritime experience
Work EnvironmentResearch vessels, offshore, often in remote locationsPort and harbor areas, guiding ships safely into port
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, maritime agencies, scientific organizationsShipping companies, port authorities, maritime services

The Research Vessels Captain and Marine Pilot roles both require maritime licenses and experience. However, the Research Vessels Captain oversees research vessel operations in remote and offshore environments, focusing on scientific missions. In contrast, the Marine Pilot guides ships safely through port and harbor areas. Both roles are essential in maritime operations but serve different functions within the industry.

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Research Vessels Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Vessels Captain job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Research Vessel Captain and Fisheries Gear Specialist

Lynker Corporation

Pascagoula, MS • On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Overview
Lynker Corporation is seeking Research Vessel Captains and Fisheries Gear Specialists to support NOAA Fisheries' Southeast Fisheries Science Center (SEFSC) Fisheries Assessment, Technology & Engineering Support (FATES) Division. These proposed roles will operate and maintain research vessels, serve as Captain or First Mate during research cruises, and provide fishing gear construction, technical, research, and outreach support. Hiring for this position will be contingent on contract award.
The FATES Harvesting Systems Branch provides the vessel, fishing gear, and engineering capabilities needed to conduct safe and effective fisheries science. The Branch develops, repairs, and produces research and commercial fishing gear while supporting technologies and operational methods that advance sustainable fisheries and reduce unwanted environmental impacts.
Responsibilities
Duties of the Research Vessel Captain and Gear Specialist will include the following:
  • Construct and maintain Turtle Excluder Devices, Bycatch Reduction Devices, and other selective fishing gear.
  • Provide fishing gear expertise for Harvesting Unit research projects.
  • Provide gear and at-sea support during Mississippi Laboratories survey cruises.
  • Prepare, maintain, and operate Class III research vessels.
  • Serve as Captain or First Mate aboard Mississippi Laboratories research cruises.
  • Support safe navigation, vessel seaworthiness, vessel cleanliness, cargo and deck-equipment handling, vessel stores, and general vessel operations.
  • Assist with workshops and training for commercial fishers in the Southeast and internationally concerning federally required fishing gear.
  • Train federal and state marine law enforcement personnel on procedures for inspecting federally required fishing gear.
  • Prepare reports documenting outreach, training, vessel, research, and gear-support activities.

Qualifications
The Research Vessel Captain and Gear Specialist should have the following:
  • At least five years of experience constructing and repairing nets in a commercial fishery or net shop.
  • At least five years of experience serving as Captain of a research or fishing vessel, including operation and maintenance of associated equipment.
  • A current United States Coast Guard Master License for vessels of 100 tons or greater.
  • Proficiency reading fishing gear technical schematics and applying gear-construction techniques.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a United States Coast Guard Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels license.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential.
  • Ability to maintain all certifications and training required by the NOAA Small Boat Program for Class III vessels.
The ideal Research Vessel Captain and Gear Specialist will have the following preferred qualifications:
  • Knowledge of selective fishing methods and technology used in commercial fisheries.
  • Ability to deliver effective technical presentations using computer and multimedia equipment.
  • Ability to provide hands-on demonstrations and training in fishing gear construction.
  • Small boat operation certification for fast rescue boats.
  • Knowledge of fishing gear regulations.
Work Environment
The position is based in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and includes work aboard Class III research vessels, in laboratories, net shops, warehouses, dockside environments, and at fisheries outreach locations. At-sea work and service as Captain or First Mate are central responsibilities. Domestic and international travel may be required for outreach and training. Facility access is generally available from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Travel and overtime must be authorized in accordance with contract requirements.
About Lynker
Lynker is a growing, employee owned business, specializing in professional, scientific and technical services. Our continually expanding team combines scientific expertise with mature, results-driven processes and tools to achieve technically sound, cost effective solutions in hydrology/water sciences, geospatial analysis, information technology, resource management, conservation, and management and business process improvement.
We focus on putting the right people in the right place to be effective. And having the right people is critical for success. Our streamlined organization enables and empowers our talented professionals to tackle our customers' scientific and technical priorities - creatively and effectively.
Lynker offers a team-oriented work environment, and the opportunity to work in a culture of exceptionally skilled professionals who embrace sound science and creative solutions. Lynker's benefits include the following:
  • Comprehensive healthcare for the employee at no monthly cost
  • Healthcare benefit covers medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision
  • Personal Time Off (PTO) Policy plus paid holidays
  • Highly competitive compensation plan regularly calibrated against industry and location benchmarks
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company-matching
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) - we're all company owners!
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Employee assistance program (EAP)
  • Short- and long-term disability insurance
  • Life and accident insurance
  • Tuition assistance/Training/Workforce improvement reimbursement per year
  • Spot bonuses for exceptional performance
  • Annual Employee Recognition Awards with bonuses
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Free centralized, self-directed Learning Management System to learn at your own pace
  • Personalized career growth plans for every employee

Lynker is an E-Verify employer.
* This position is not currently funded and is contingent upon contract award. Employment is subject to successful completion of any required background checks and security processing required by the customer.
Lynker is an equal opportunity employer and makes all employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local laws.

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