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Seaman Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bowhead

Ordinary Seaman/Captain

Panama City, FL

$511.92/day

Overview Ordinary Seaman (TYAFB-2026-25611): Bowhead Marine Support Services seeks multiple, part time, on-call, Ordinary Seaman/Captain for the operations of 120' Missile Retriever's and other small ...

State of Louisiana

ORDINARY SEAMAN

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

The Ordinary Seaman is under general supervision of the ship's captain, performs various functions pertaining to operation and maintenance of the vessel: waterfront maintenance, field work and ...

State of Louisiana

ORDINARY SEAMAN

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

The Ordinary Seaman is under general supervision of the ship's captain, performs various functions pertaining to operation and maintenance of the vessel: waterfront maintenance, field work and ...

asrcfh

Ordinary Seaman

Orient, NY · On-site

... seeking an Ordinary Seaman at the Plum Island Animal Disease Research Center, located on Plum ... Ensure safe transport of passengers and freight. * Assist vessel captain in navigation and boat ...

asrcfh

Ordinary Seaman

Orient, NY · On-site

... seeking an Ordinary Seaman at the Plum Island Animal Disease Research Center, located on Plum ... Ensure safe transport of passengers and freight. * Assist vessel captain in navigation and boat ...

asrcfh

Ordinary Seaman

Orient, NY

$28.37/hr

Ordinary Seaman Full Time Date of Posting: March 26, 2026 Date of Closing: April 1, 2026 Key Role ... vessel captain in navigation and boat handling. • Support operation of marine vessels in the ...

asrcfh

Ordinary Seaman

Orient, NY · On-site

$28.37/hr

Ordinary Seaman Full Time Date of Posting: March 26, 2026 Date of Closing: April 1, 2026 Key Role ... vessel captain in navigation and boat handling. • Support operation of marine vessels in the ...

Pae

ABLE SEAMAN, ADVANCED (CERT)

Waimea, HI · On-site

The Able Seaman (AB) (Advanced) is a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) crew position aboard ... captains or other designated senior crewpersons. Additional tasks performed by the AB may be ...

New

lynden

AB Seaman - Alaska

Anchorage, AK

As an AB Seaman, you'll help keep vessels running safely by supporting deck operations and crew ... Captain and Mate. * Assist in vessel loading and unloading. * May perform galley functions such as ...

Lynden Incorporated

AB Seaman - Alaska

Anchorage, AK · On-site

As an AB Seaman, you'll help keep vessels running safely by supporting deck operations and crew ... Captain and Mate. * Assist in vessel loading and unloading. * May perform galley functions such as ...

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Seaman Captain information

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How much do seaman captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for seaman captain in the United States is $21.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a seaman captain?

To become a seaman captain, one must typically start as a deck officer, gain several years of maritime experience, and obtain necessary certifications such as a Master Mariner license. This process includes completing maritime education, accumulating sea service hours, and passing licensing exams administered by maritime authorities.

What is the highest paid seaman?

The highest paid seaman is typically a Captain or Master of a large commercial vessel, with salaries reaching over $150,000 annually depending on experience, vessel size, and shipping company. Senior captains with extensive experience and certifications such as STCW and USCG licenses tend to earn the highest wages in the maritime industry.

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

Seaman Captains often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, crew fatigue, and navigation through congested or hazardous waters during extended voyages. Effective communication, strict adherence to safety protocols, and regular crew rotations are essential strategies for managing these issues. Captains also rely on advanced navigational technology and continuous training to ensure the vessel’s safety and operational efficiency. Proactive leadership and quick decision-making are key to addressing emergencies and maintaining a motivated crew throughout the journey.

What are Seaman Captains?

Seaman Captains, often referred to as ship captains or masters, are the highest-ranking officers on a ship responsible for its overall operation, safety, and navigation. They oversee the crew, ensure compliance with maritime laws and regulations, and make critical decisions regarding the ship’s course and cargo. Seaman Captains also handle communications with port authorities and manage emergency situations at sea. Their role requires extensive maritime experience and usually official certification or licensing.

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

To thrive as a Seaman Captain, you need advanced maritime navigation skills, strong leadership abilities, and typically hold a valid captain’s license such as the STCW Master Mariner certification. Familiarity with ship management systems, radar, GPS navigation tools, and safety protocols is essential. Excellent decision-making, communication, and crisis management skills make a captain stand out in ensuring crew safety and operational efficiency. These competencies are crucial for managing vessel operations, maintaining safety standards, and leading crews effectively on the open sea.

What is the difference between Seaman Captain vs Marine Engineer?

AspectSeaman CaptainMarine Engineer
CredentialsCaptain's license, STCW certificationMarine engineering degree, STCW certification
Work EnvironmentBridge of ships, overseeing navigation and crewEngine room, maintaining ship's machinery
Industry UsageMaritime shipping, cargo, passenger vesselsShip maintenance, propulsion systems, safety

The Seaman Captain and Marine Engineer roles both require maritime certifications and are essential in ship operations. The Captain primarily manages navigation and crew, while the Marine Engineer focuses on engine systems and technical maintenance. Both roles are vital for safe and efficient maritime operations, often working closely together onboard.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Seaman captains and other senior maritime roles can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working on large vessels or in specialized industries. High-paying maritime positions often require advanced navigation skills, leadership abilities, and compliance with safety regulations.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Seaman Captains in the maritime industry can earn around $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, offshore certifications, and command of large vessels. High-paying roles in this field often involve long hours, offshore work, and specialized skills in navigation, safety, and leadership.
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Seaman Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Seaman 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 $44,153 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Ordinary Seaman/Captain

Bowhead

Panama City, FL

$511.92/day

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Overview

Ordinary Seaman (TYAFB-2026-25611):

Bowhead Marine Support Services seeks multiple, part time, on-call,  Ordinary Seaman/Captain for the operations of 120' Missile Retriever's and other small craft in direct support of the 53rd Weapons Group, 82nd Aerial Target Squadron at Tyndall, Air Force Base, Tyndall, FL. THey will work as both OS sometimes, and Captain Others. While working as OS the pay is $122.54/day but while working as a Captain the pay is $511.92/day

Responsibilities
  • Crew, Operate and maintain assigned vessels in direct support of the 53rd Weapons Group, 82nd Aerial Target Squadron missions which range from harbor operations to open ocean operations within 200nm of the Panama City Sea Buoy.
  • Conduct, and assist with the preventative, corrective, predictive maintenance and general repairs of all vessels and modifications of vessels to suit mission requirements.
  • Shall have extensive experience, knowledge, and confident skills as a deckhand and be able to operate in close proximity to other craft and waterborne targets and structures.
  • Proficient at following instructions for planned maritime operations and understanding military communications.
Qualifications

While working as OS, the pay is $122.54/day, but while working as a Captain the pay is $511.92/day

  • Must provide a certificate of competency that complies with STCW Reg II/3: NVIC 13-14 Guidelines on Qualification for STCW Endorsements as Master or Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch of Vessels of Less than 500 GT Limited to Near-Coastal Waters
  • Minimum of three (3) years experience operating and maintaining water craft, and a USCG 200 Ton near coastal or greater Master's License.
  • Must meet the standard of competence specified in Section A-II/4 of the STCW Code.
  • Prefer candidate with experience operating craft used to conduct range clearance operations, range safety and in the recovery of Drones and subscale aerial target waterborne recovery.
  • Having familiarity with systems such as the MK-30, MK-39, Mk-46, MK-48, MK-54 systems and Portable Underwater Tracking Range (PUTR), Portable Acoustic Range (PAR), LASEREX, and High Speed Maneuvering Seaborne Target (HSMST) operations is a plus.
  • Successful applicant will also demonstrate knowledge and experience of Port Operations Support Functions to include workboats used to support security gate openings/closings, line handling, pusher boat duties, oil boom installation/removal around moored or anchored vessels.
  • Must be able to pass pre-employment and routine drug screening as required by Maritime Consortium.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of employees and outside contacts
  • Strong interpersonal skills and good judgment with the ability to work alone or as part of a team

Physical Demands: The work environment varies and includes, but is not limited to: dock, port, bay, waterways, office space, equipment rooms, warehouse space, construction zones, and outdoor environments. Work hours may fluctuate outside of normal duty hours. While performing the duties of this job, the individual is:

  • Regularly required to sit, use hands to handle, move, manipulate or feel objects, talk and/or hear.
  • Frequently required to stand and/or walk and routinely required to reach with hands and arms.
  • Routinely required to stand, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and/or squat.
  • Frequently lifts and /or moves up to 50 pounds and occasionally lifts and/or moves up to 75 pounds.
  • Occasionally lifts and/or moves 75-100 pounds with the assistance of deckhands and/or heavy lifting equipment.

SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS: Must be able to obtain a security clearance at the Secret level.  US Citizenship is a requirement for Secret clearance at this location

Employment Type: OTHER

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