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Seaman Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

At Seaman Corporation, every associate is instrumental to our success. Become a part of our growing ... Serve as Captain or First Officer on company aircraft. * Ensure compliance with FAA regulations and ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

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 ...

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

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Seaman Captain information

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How much do seaman captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 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.

What is a seaman captain?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a seaman captain?

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 challenges do seaman captains face during long voyages, and how are they 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 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.

Are boat captain jobs in demand?

Boat captain jobs are in demand in the maritime industry, especially for those with proper certifications such as a USCG license and experience in navigation and safety procedures. The demand is driven by the need for skilled leadership in commercial, passenger, and recreational vessels, with employment opportunities often influenced by industry growth and regional maritime activity.

How do you 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 involves completing maritime education, passing exams, and accumulating sea time to meet regulatory requirements.

How much do seaman captains get paid?

Seaman captains, also known as ship captains or master mariners, typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on the vessel size, experience, and employer. Salaries can increase with seniority, certifications, and the complexity of the ships they command, often requiring extensive maritime training and licensing. They also may receive additional compensation for overtime, hazard pay, and travel expenses.
More about Seaman Captain jobs

What cities are hiring for Seaman Captain jobs?

Cities with the most Seaman Captain job openings:

What states have the most Seaman Captain jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Seaman 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 $44,153 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Ordinary Seaman/Captain

Bowhead

Panama City, FL

$511.92/day

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 26 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.

Target salary is $122.54/day commensurate with experience

Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Bowhead considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and business considerations when extending an offer.

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