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River Boat Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Push boat Captain Status: Full-time, Rotational Schedule Company: Host Crewing, LLC Reports To: UBT ... Parker Host acquired United Bulk Terminals (UBT) on Mile 55 of the Mississippi River as one of the ...

Push boat Captain Status: Part-time Company: Host Crewing, LLC Reports To: UBT Davant Port Captain ... Parker Host acquired United Bulk Terminals (UBT) on Mile 55 of the Mississippi River as one of the ...

Position Summary The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient ... Safely operate tug boats and support vessels in rivers, lakes, channels, ports, and inland ...

Position Summary The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient ... Safely operate tug boats and support vessels in rivers, lakes, channels, ports, and inland ...

Position Summary The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient ... Safely operate tug boats and support vessels in rivers, lakes, channels, ports, and inland ...

Position Summary The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient ... Safely operate tug boats and support vessels in rivers, lakes, channels, ports, and inland ...

... Boat Tours in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan taking passengers through the wonders of the Soo Locks and St Mary's River. In 2022, we joined the Interlake family of businesses and are now known as Soo ...

While on the boat, pilothouse personnel stand watch for 12 hours each day with the watch broken ... River Charts. They must be able to write so as to accurately record all events in the vessel log ...

While on the boat, pilothouse personnel stand watch for 12 hours each day with the watch broken ... River Charts. They must be able to write so as to accurately record all events in the vessel log ...

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River Boat Captain information

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$5

$25

$48

How much do river boat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for river boat 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 River Boat Captain vs Marine Deck Officer?

AspectRiver Boat CaptainMarine Deck Officer
CertificationsCaptain's license, STCW certificationSTCW certification, Deck officer license
Work EnvironmentRivers, inland waterwaysOpen seas, maritime routes
Industry UsagePassenger and cargo boats on riversCommercial shipping, maritime industry

While both roles require STCW certification and involve navigation, the River Boat Captain primarily operates on inland waterways and rivers, focusing on passenger or cargo boats. In contrast, the Marine Deck Officer works on open seas and larger vessels, handling maritime navigation and safety. The roles differ mainly in environment and vessel type, but share core certifications and responsibilities related to navigation and safety management.

Is there a demand for river boat captains?

The demand for river boat captains depends on the region and industry, with opportunities primarily in tourism, freight transport, and recreational boating. Employment can be influenced by tourism trends, infrastructure development, and regulatory requirements such as licensing and certifications. Overall, job prospects are steady in areas with active waterways and tourism industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a river boat captain?

To thrive as a River Boat Captain, you need a valid captain's license (such as a USCG Merchant Mariner Credential), in-depth knowledge of navigation, safety regulations, and vessel operations. Proficiency with radar, GPS, radio communication systems, and emergency response equipment is typically required. Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills are crucial for managing crew and ensuring passenger safety. These skills and qualifications are vital for safe, efficient vessel operation and compliance with legal and safety standards on inland waterways.

How do you become a river boat captain?

To become a river boat captain, you typically need to obtain a Coast Guard license or certification, which requires completing a maritime training program, gaining relevant experience, and passing written and practical exams. Candidates often start as deckhands or mates to accumulate experience and must demonstrate knowledge of navigation, safety procedures, and vessel operation. Licensing requirements vary by region but generally include a minimum number of hours of sea service and medical fitness.

How much do river boat captains make?

River boat captains typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, the size of the vessel, and the region. They are responsible for navigation, safety, and compliance with maritime regulations, often requiring a captain's license and specialized training.

What are the main challenges river boat captains face when navigating changing river conditions?

River Boat Captains often encounter fluctuating water levels, shifting sandbars, and unpredictable weather, which can all impact safe navigation. Adapting quickly to these changes requires strong situational awareness and constant communication with crew members and river traffic controllers. Captains must also stay updated on local regulations and river conditions to ensure passenger and cargo safety. These challenges can be rewarding for those who enjoy problem-solving and working in dynamic environments.

What does a river boat captain do?

A River Boat Captain is responsible for navigating and operating boats along rivers, ensuring the safe and efficient transport of passengers or cargo. They oversee the crew, monitor weather and river conditions, and comply with all maritime regulations. Captains also handle emergency situations, communicate with ports, and maintain the vessel’s logs and equipment. Their expertise ensures smooth operations and the safety of everyone on board.
More about River Boat Captain jobs
What cities are hiring for River Boat Captain jobs? Cities with the most River Boat Captain job openings:
What states have the most River Boat Captain jobs? States with the most job openings for River Boat Captain jobs include:
Infographic showing various River Boat Captain job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Push Boat Captain

T. Parker Host

Braithwaite, LA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Title:                                  Push boat Captain                                           

Status:                              Full-time, Rotational Schedule

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 2 weeks on /1 week off schedule (unless otherwise agreed), 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