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Ship Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

On site - Event Captain

Manhattan, NY ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Health insurance On-Site Event Captain (Furniture) Role Overview The On-Site Event Captain is the field leader responsible for executing flawless rental deliveries, setups, and strikes. You will ...

New

196 - The Promenade at Sagemore - Marlton, NJ Who Are We? Stand Out For Good, Inc. is a rapidly growing women's fashion company with 5 unique brands, in 130+ locations, across 38 states. Our stores ...

196 - The Promenade at Sagemore - Marlton, NJ Who Are We? Stand Out For Good, Inc. is a rapidly growing women's fashion company with 5 unique brands, in 130+ locations, across 38 states. Our stores ...

Captain

Providence, RI ยท On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

Captain

New London, CT ยท On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

Captain

Charleston, SC ยท On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

Captain

Providence, RI ยท On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

Captain

Portland, ME ยท On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

Captain

New London, CT ยท On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

Captain

Portland, ME ยท On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

Captain

Camden, ME ยท On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

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SHIP Captain information

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$15

$26

$47

How much do ship captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship captain in the United States is $26.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a ship captain pay?

Ship captains typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, vessel size, and the employer. Salaries can vary based on the type of shipping, certifications, and the region where they work, with some captains earning higher pay on large cargo ships or cruise vessels.

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

To thrive as a Ship Captain, you need extensive maritime knowledge, navigational expertise, and a valid captain's license such as a Merchant Mariner Credential. Familiarity with navigation systems, radar, GPS technology, and safety management protocols is essential. Strong leadership, decision-making, and effective communication skills help manage the crew and respond to emergencies. These skills ensure the safe and efficient operation of the vessel, compliance with international regulations, and the well-being of all onboard.

Is ship captain a good career?

A ship captain is a senior maritime professional responsible for navigating and managing a vessel, often requiring extensive experience, certifications, and leadership skills. The career offers opportunities for travel and advancement but involves long hours, time away from home, and safety responsibilities. It can be financially rewarding but demands rigorous training and adherence to regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by Ship Captains during long voyages, and how are they typically managed?

One of the main challenges Ship Captains face during extended voyages is maintaining crew morale and operational efficiency in isolated and sometimes unpredictable environments. Captains must also manage navigation through changing weather conditions and ensure strict compliance with international maritime regulations. Effective communication, decisive leadership, and adaptability are crucial in addressing issues such as equipment malfunctions, time zone changes, and emergency situations. Regular safety drills, clear delegation of duties, and fostering a supportive team atmosphere help mitigate these challenges and ensure smooth operations.

What does a Ship Captain do?

A Ship Captain, also known as a Master or Captain, is responsible for the overall operation and safety of a vessel and its crew. Their duties include navigating and steering the ship, ensuring compliance with maritime laws, overseeing cargo operations, and managing onboard emergencies. Captains also supervise officers and crew, maintain detailed records and logs, and communicate with port authorities. Their leadership is crucial for the successful and safe completion of each voyage.

What Is a Ship Captain?

A ship captain is responsible for the safe operation and navigation of a sea vessel such as a ferry, barge, tugboat, or cruise ship. In this career, you must ensure its seaworthiness and follow all safety protocols for your passengers before setting sail. You also manage a large crew, ensuring that each crew member understands your policies. Other duties include setting the ship course, giving commands to your crew, and supervising the loading and unloading of cargo or passengers. You record all relevant information regarding each voyage, including the course and speed of the boat and weather conditions. Other responsibilities include maintaining equipment, like engines, navigational systems, and life preservers, and signaling passing vessels.

What is the difference between Ship Captain vs Ship Engineer?

AspectShip CaptainShip Engineer
CredentialsSTCW Master License, maritime certificationsSTCW Engineer License, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentBridge, deck operations, navigationEngine room, machinery maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, maritime industryShip operators, maritime industry
Primary ResponsibilitiesNavigation, safety, crew managementEngine maintenance, machinery operation

While both Ship Captains and Ship Engineers work onboard ships within the maritime industry, the Ship Captain primarily oversees navigation, safety, and crew management, requiring a Master License. In contrast, the Ship Engineer focuses on maintaining and operating the ship's engines and machinery, holding an Engineer License. Both roles are essential for safe and efficient vessel operation but differ in their technical focus and responsibilities.

Who is the highest paid ship captain?

The highest paid ship captains typically work in the oil tanker, cruise ship, or large cargo vessel industries, with salaries reaching up to $200,000 or more annually. Factors influencing pay include experience, certifications, the size and type of vessel, and the employer's location. Senior captains with extensive experience and specialized skills tend to earn the highest salaries in the maritime industry.

How do you become a captain on a ship?

To become a ship captain, you typically need to gain experience as a deck officer by working on ships and obtaining necessary certifications such as a Master Mariner license. This process involves accumulating sea time, passing exams, and demonstrating leadership and navigation skills. Advancement depends on experience, training, and meeting regulatory requirements set by maritime authorities.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Ship Captain jobs? The most popular types of Ship Captain jobs are:
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What are popular job titles related to Ship Captain jobs? For Ship Captain jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Ship 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 $54,541 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Sea Tow Captain - Ocean Operations (Maine Coast)

Sea Tow Captain - Ocean Operations (Maine Coast)

Marina Holdings, LLC

Yarmouth, ME โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Answer the Call. Protect Boaters. Respond When It Matters Most.
Marina Holdings is seeking an experienced and professional Ocean Operations Captain to provide on-water assistance, towing, recovery, and light salvage services along the Maine coast. This role is designed for a seasoned mariner who thrives in challenging conditions and takes pride in helping boaters through breakdowns, groundings, and marine emergencies.
Requirements
Key Responsibilities
โ€ข Respond to emergency and non-emergency calls for assistance.
โ€ข Provide towing services for disabled vessels.
โ€ข Perform vessel recovery and light salvage operations.
โ€ข Assist grounded vessels and evaluate safe recovery methods.
โ€ข Operate company response vessels in varying sea and weather conditions.
โ€ข Coordinate with marinas, harbormasters, law enforcement, and emergency responders as needed.
โ€ข Complete service reports and incident documentation.
โ€ข Conduct vessel inspections and maintain operational readiness of equipment.
โ€ข Deliver exceptional customer service during stressful situations.
Required Qualifications
โ€ข Valid U.S. Coast Guard Captain's License (required).
โ€ข Strong vessel-handling experience in coastal and offshore environments.
โ€ข Knowledge of navigation, tides, currents, weather, and marine safety practices.
โ€ข Ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
โ€ข Excellent communication and customer service skills.
โ€ข CPR and First Aid certification preferred.
โ€ข Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
โ€ข Ability to work weekends, holidays, and on-call schedules during boating season.
Physical Requirements
โ€ข Ability to board vessels in varying sea conditions.
โ€ข Lift and carry up to 75 pounds.
โ€ข Work outdoors in all weather conditions.
โ€ข Climb, kneel, bend, and perform physically demanding marine operations.
Marina Holdings is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and participates in the federal E-Verify program. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment background and drug screenings in accordance with applicable laws.