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Ship Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ergon, Inc

Big Valley Pilot

Vicksburg, MS · On-site

Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a full-time Big Valley Pilot at its Vicksburg location.If you are a hard-working person who likes helping others and being proud of the ...

Psa Airlines

Maintenance Technical Pilot

Charlotte, NC · On-site

Maintenance Technical Pilots (MTPs) will use excellent communication and teamwork, along with their knowledge of company operations and manuals to further improve PSA policies and procedures. Job ...

Seasats

Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) Pilot

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75 - $100/hr

Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) Pilot Location: San Diego, CA (in-office) Typical working hours: Rotating shift coverage across 24/7 operations, including: * 3:00 AM - 11:00 AM * 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM * 7 ...

HFL 412 Marine Inc

Trip Pilot

Pittsburgh, PA · Remote

Trip Pilots are primarily responsible for the safety of vessel employees, the vessel, cargo and the environment. The primary responsibility is to navigate the vessel safely at all times, in all ...

HFL 412 Marine Inc

Trip Pilot

Point Pleasant, WV · On-site

Trip Pilots are primarily responsible for the safety of vessel employees, the vessel, cargo and the environment. The primary responsibility is to navigate the vessel safely at all times, in all ...

BUFFALO MARINE SERVICE INC

Wheelman

Houston, TX · On-site

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 ...

BUFFALO MARINE SERVICE INC

Wheelman

Houston, TX · On-site

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 ...

Master Boat Builders, Inc

1st Class Outfitters

AL · On-site

The 1st Class Outfitter plays a crucial role in assembling and maintaining ships to ensure they are seaworthy and safe for navigation. Their work will involve using a variety of tools and equipment ...

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SHIP Pilot information

See salary details

$72K

$185.6K

$247K

How much do ship pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for ship pilot in the United States is $185,569.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $173,500.00 and $209,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ship pilot?

A ship pilot is a captain responsible for the overall operation and navigation on board a large boat or ship. The types of ships that can be piloted vary widely depending on the use of the vessel. Some common examples include cargo ships, oil tankers, and passenger ships. These ships can be piloted to any port whether it is on the ocean or water ways. Your job duties include overseeing the loading of cargo and passengers, establishing the proper navigation elements such as speed and direction, and ensuring the ship is in safe working order.

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

To thrive as a Ship Pilot, you need extensive maritime navigation knowledge, a valid pilot's license, and significant seafaring experience. Familiarity with radar, GPS navigation systems, electronic chart display systems, and local maritime regulations is essential. Strong situational awareness, decisive communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient maneuvering of vessels in often challenging and congested waterways.

What are some common challenges ship pilots face when navigating busy ports?

Ship pilots frequently encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, limited visibility, and heavy marine traffic in busy ports. They must make quick decisions to maneuver large vessels safely in tight spaces while coordinating with harbor authorities, tugboats, and the ship’s crew. Effective communication and situational awareness are essential to avoid accidents and ensure efficient docking or undocking procedures. Adapting to different ship types and understanding each port's unique layout are also key aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Ship Pilot vs Marine Pilot?

AspectShip PilotMarine Pilot
CredentialsRequires maritime licenses, pilot certifications, and navigation experienceRequires similar maritime licenses, pilot certifications, and navigation experience
Work EnvironmentOperates in ports, harbors, and coastal watersOperates in ports, harbors, and coastal waters
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, port authorities, maritime agenciesShipping companies, port authorities, maritime agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to similar roles in port navigation and vessel guidance

Both Ship Pilots and Marine Pilots are essential for navigating ships safely through port areas. They share similar credentials, work environments, and employers, focusing on guiding vessels in confined waters. The main difference lies in terminology, with 'Ship Pilot' being the more commonly used term in North America, while 'Marine Pilot' is often used internationally. Both roles require extensive maritime experience and licensing, ensuring safe and efficient port operations.

More about SHIP Pilot jobs

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What states have the most Ship Pilot jobs?

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For Ship Pilot jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

SHIP Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $185,569 per year, or $89.2 per hour.

Big Valley Pilot

Vicksburg, MS • On-site

Ergon, Inc
Oil and Gas Extraction • 1 - 5K employees

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 87 rated oil and gas companies

People enjoy working here

Paid breaks

Respectful managers

Learn more about Ergon, Incexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a full-time Big Valley Pilot at its Vicksburg location.If you are a hard-working person who likes helping others and being proud of the physical work you accomplish, this might be a job you would enjoy. EMIS services vessels and tows, and this job allows you to be a part of the support of the river crews.Ergon is a family-owned oil and gas company based in the Jackson, MS, area with facilities across the US. EMIS is a subsidiary with facilities that support marine traffic up and down the Mississippi River. Our facilities are located in Vicksburg, MS; Memphis, TN; and Wood River, IL.Ergon offers a competitive benefits package: 401(k) Matching, Health, Life, Dental, Holidays, Vacation, Sick Leave, Tuition Assistance, and Profit SharingThe Big Valley Pilot ensures the safe and efficient operation and performance of his crew, vessel, and tow in a manner that complies with company policy, U. S. Coast Guard rules and regulations, and federal, state, and local laws.Big Valley Pilot Responsibilities include the following:Ensure that company policy, rules and regulations are followed.Report violations of EMIS company policy or violations of federal, state, or local laws.Ensure safe and efficient operation of the vessel while on watch.Inspect all areas of the vessel and tow to ensure safety, proper maintenance, and a clean vessel ready for voyage.Provide customer service according to the EMIS Mission Statement.Ensure safe loading of supplies by forklift, and that all customer supplies are onboard before leaving the dockLoad parts and grocery orders when neededMonitor the whiteboard in dispatch for incoming vessel needsComplete an EMIS Multi-Purpose Tracking Form for items put off by customer vesselsBalance the cash drawer at the end of each shift, correcting mistakes as neededEnsure all crewmembers on EMIS vessels and docks are using Proper PPE.Assist other operations as required by management.Report incidents immediately to the appropriate supervisor and enter them in the vessel logs.Ensure fire extinguishers are recharged or refilled as required for each type of extinguisher.Ensure an adequate number of approved life preservers are on board.Ensure an adequate quantity of first aid supplies on board the vessel.Complete Towing Vessel Record in TowWorks each shift, which includes the following:Engine Room LogPre-Sail Check ListWhen a Big Valley Pilot is assigned the task of training an upcoming pilot, the current pilot is considered the "Master of the Vessel" and is responsible for and will be held accountable for the actions of the trainee in the performance of their duties.Big Valley Pilot Qualifications:High School Diploma or GEDMust have a U.S. Coast Guard 100-Ton Master's LicenseMust have sufficient time with EMIS to prove competence and leadership skills as determined by the Port Captain and Vice President, for promotion from within the companyMust be able to swimValid TWIC Card (Transportation Workers Identification Credential)Must have a valid driver's licenseWe are an EEO/AAP employer.Position: Big Valley Pilot Employment offer contingent upon pre-employment drug test, background check, and MVR.
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