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Riverboat Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Riverboat Captain information

See salary details

$5

$25

$48

How much do riverboat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for riverboat 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 riverboat captain?

Riverboat Captains are licensed professionals responsible for navigating and operating riverboats along inland waterways such as rivers and lakes. They ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and cargo, manage the vessel’s operations, and comply with maritime regulations. Riverboat Captains must have a deep knowledge of navigation, local waterways, and emergency procedures, and they often coordinate with deckhands and other crew members. This role typically requires a valid captain’s license and significant on-water experience.

What are some common challenges faced by riverboat captains during navigation and how are they addressed?

Riverboat Captains often encounter challenges such as fluctuating water levels, unpredictable weather, and navigating narrow or busy waterways. These conditions require constant vigilance, effective communication with crew members, and use of advanced navigation technology. Captains also need to adapt quickly to regulatory changes and coordinate closely with port authorities to ensure safe and efficient operations. Ongoing training and experience are key to overcoming these challenges and maintaining high safety standards on the river.

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

To thrive as a Riverboat Captain, you need a thorough understanding of navigation, vessel operation, maritime safety, and typically must hold a valid U.S. Coast Guard captain’s license. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, radar, radio communication equipment, and emergency protocols is essential. Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills help in managing crew members and ensuring passenger safety. These skills and qualifications are crucial for safe, efficient riverboat operations and compliance with maritime regulations.

What is the difference between Riverboat Captain vs Marine Pilot?

AspectRiverboat CaptainMarine Pilot
CredentialsState licenses, maritime certificationsPort-specific pilot licenses, maritime certifications
Work EnvironmentOnboard riverboats, inland waterwaysAt port terminals, onboard ships, in harbors
Employer & IndustryRiver cruise companies, inland shippingShipping companies, port authorities
Search & ComparisonOften compared for navigation roles on inland watersCommonly compared with riverboat captains for port navigation

While both roles involve navigation and maritime skills, a Riverboat Captain primarily commands inland waterway vessels like riverboats, focusing on passenger or cargo transport on rivers. A Marine Pilot, on the other hand, guides ships through port areas and harbors, often working alongside captains to ensure safe navigation in congested or complex port environments. Both require maritime certifications, but their work settings and responsibilities differ significantly.

What cities are hiring for Riverboat Captain jobs?

Cities with the most Riverboat Captain job openings:

What states have the most Riverboat Captain jobs?

States with the most job openings for Riverboat Captain jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Riverboat Captain jobs?

For Riverboat Captain jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Riverboat Captain job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Riverboat Captain

Saint Charles, IL • On-site

ST CHARLES PARK DISTRICT
Amusement, Gambling, and Recreation • 501 - 1,000 employees

$32 - $35/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job Summary – About the RoleDeliver high quality recreation services for residents, visitors and the St. Charles community by adhering to the District’s safety and administrative policies and procedures. Knowledge, Skills & Experience

This position is well suited for someone with a friendly and positive personality who is productive and shows initiative, is an effective written and oral communicator, is reliable and safety-minded.

Required: Requires a Master of Inland Waters, 100-ton license with all accompanying credentials. Experience handling and docking a vessel over 50 tons. Experience with diesel engines, generators and computers. Must be able to dock unassisted. Must be able to stand or walk for the duration of the shift. Able to ascend and descend stairs and ladders, sometimes while transporting tools or objects. Knowledge and aptitude in vessel engineering, maintenance and minor repair. Good hand-eye coordination, balance and alertness. Knowledge of USCG and IDNR standards and regulations as pertaining to 100-ton passenger vessels. Knowledge of safety concerns pertaining to 100-ton passenger vessels. Able to work in a team setting and take direction from administrative supervisors. Required to pass pre-employment and subsequent random drug screens. Must attend substance abuse training. Maintain DCFS mandated reporter certificate or obtain certification within 30 days of hire. Maintain First Aid/CPR/AED certification or obtain certification within 30 days of hire.

Essential Functions of the Position

Park District Cornerstones

  • Follow all departmental safety rules that pertain to the duties performed and support all aspects of Park District’s safety and risk management program.
  • Work cooperatively and collaboratively with residents, colleagues, the public, PDRMA and other agencies or organizations as delegated.
  • Recommends improvements and efficiencies to better accomplish individual and district goals in the best interests of the St. Charles Park District community.
  • Comply with Park District policies and administrative procedures.

Responsibilities

Under the direction and supervision of the Superintendent of Recreation, Assistant Superintendent of Recreation and the Manager of Cruise Operations, the Riverboat Captain is responsible for the daily operations of the Riverboat cruises and maintenance including:  

  • Maintains the ultimate command and safe operation of the vessels.
  • Inspect and assist with maintenance of all on-board equipment, machinery, engines, and safety equipment.
  • Recognize, investigate and report any unsafe conditions or damage to vessel.
  • Maintain with accuracy and timeliness: a daily vessel log, pre-launch checklist, incident/accident forms and other specialized reports.
  • Conduct routine and periodic maintenance of vessel.
  • Assist with pre-season and postseason maintenance.
  • Obtain daily weather briefings and execute safety decisions regarding cancellations, delayed launches and/or early-docking.
  • Assist deck crew with routine maintenance and cleaning.
  • Assist management in planning the day’s itinerary, including passenger communications and safety training.
  • Assist in safe fueling of vessel and replenishing stores.
  • Ensure adherence to Coast Guard rules and regulation, and other federal and local rules and regulations.
  • Determine the position of the ship relative to other vessels and obstructions.
  • Provide information to guests about the Paddlewheel Riverboats.
  • Present provided historical and geographical script, as directed.
  • Participate in the execution of the Safety Program, including emergency drills.
  • Ensure that staff and guests adhere to all safety standards and procedures.
  • Ensure strict compliance to Emergency Response Plan.
  • Maintain a professional appearance, friendly attitude and approachable demeanor while performing duties and while on Park District premises.
  • Maintain and promote excellent customer service relations with patrons, staff and affiliates.
  • Attend and actively participate in training and staff meetings.

Marginal Functions of the Position

  • Perform other related duties and/or special projects as assigned.
  • Help respond to passengers and park patrons who request information about other Park District amenities, services and facilities.
Physical and Environmental Requirements

Position or Activity

Frequently

46-100% of the time

Occasionally

16-45% of the time

Rarely

0-15% of the time

Sitting

 X

Walking

Climbing

Balancing

Stooping/Kneeling

Crouching

Crawling

Reaching

Handling/Feeling

Standing

 X

Strength

1-40lbs and 41-50lbs at times with assistance 

Requires a range of hearing and vision that allows the employee to safely complete the essential duties of the position with or without assistive devices, corrective lenses and/or glasses and/or a reasonable accommodation.

EEO Statement and Accommodations

The St Charles Park District is an equal opportunity employer under all state and federal laws and regulations.  The job responsibilities are subject to accommodations pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. If you require assistance or accommodation with the application process, please contact the Business Department at 630-584-1055.

The Park District offers the following benefits to all Part-Time Category III employees:

  • District Incentives
    • Paid Training
    • Discounts for Programs