ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Seaman Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AET

Ordinary Seaman (OS)

Galveston, TX · On-site

... or Captain in a timely and efficient manner, assist the Chief Mate as appropriate * deck ... Ordinary Seaman mariner credential * TWIC * COVID-19 vaccination including booster Physical ...

AET

Ordinary Seaman (OS)

Galveston, TX · On-site

... or Captain in a timely and efficient manner, assist the Chief Mate as appropriate * deck ... Ordinary Seaman mariner credential * TWIC * COVID-19 vaccination including booster Physical ...

Seaport Museum New York

Relief Captain

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$32/hr

Captains are responsible for the safety of the vessel, guests, and crew while in command. They run ... Demonstrated ability to operate vessels in a safe and seaman-like manner in the New York Harbor ...

Republic Services

Assistant Captain

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$70K - $89K/yr

The Assistant Captain utilizes navigational equipment, weather forecasts and tide/current ... Able Bodied Seaman * Cold-Water Survival Certificate (or ability to obtain within 12 months, if ...

Republic Services

Assistant Captain

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$70K - $89K/yr

The Assistant Captain utilizes navigational equipment, weather forecasts and tide/current ... Able Bodied Seaman * Cold-Water Survival Certificate (or ability to obtain within 12 months, if ...

Republic Services

Assistant Captain

Oxnard, CA

$70K - $89K/yr

The Assistant Captain utilizes navigational equipment, weather forecasts and tide/current ... Able Bodied Seaman * Cold-Water Survival Certificate (or ability to obtain within 12 months, if ...

Calista Brice Holding Company

$448/day

... our captains having started as deckhands on our vessels. Brice Marine is a proud subsidiary of ... As the Able Seaman, you will work on a vessel and as a entry-level deckhand of a cargo vessel with ...

Interlake Steamship Company

2nd Cook

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

This position requires an endorsement as Ordinary Seaman and Food Handler (F.H.) on a Merchant ... Captain quarters, guest quarters, and linen management) * Oversee guest/owner spaces for cleaning ...

Young Brothers

Cook / AB

Honolulu, HI

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

... seaman/deckhand and general maintenance duties as directed. ESSENTIAL DUTIES/FUNCTIONS: 1. Prepare meals for crew members. 2. Prepare store list and review with Captain. Shop for stores. 3. Maintain ...

Young Brothers LLC

Cook / AB

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

... seaman/deckhand and general maintenance duties as directed. ESSENTIAL DUTIES/FUNCTIONS: 1. Prepare meals for crew members. 2. Prepare store list and review with Captain. Shop for stores. 3. Maintain ...

Young Brothers

Cook / AB - Honolulu, HI

Honolulu, HI

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

... seaman/deckhand and general maintenance duties as directed. ESSENTIAL DUTIES/FUNCTIONS: 1. Prepare meals for crew members. 2. Prepare store list and review with Captain. Shop for stores. 3. Maintain ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSeaman Captain Jobs

Seaman Captain information

See salary details

$7

$21

$48

How much do seaman captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 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 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.

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:
What job categories do people searching Seaman Captain jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Seaman Captain jobs are:
Seaman Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Seaman Captain job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 13% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,153 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Able Seaman- Summer Seasonal

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge

Anchorage, AK • On-site

Temporary

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Able Seaman (AB)

Seasonal Opportunity | Cook Inlet Tug & Barge

Season Dates: 2026 Summer Season

Season: May-October

Location: Alaska

Generous Sign-On Bonus Available Set Sail on an Alaska Maritime Adventure

If you’re an experienced Able Seaman looking for meaningful, hands-on work in some of the most rugged and spectacular waters in the world, this is your call to the deck.

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge—Alaska’s premier tug and barge operator—is seeking skilled Able Seamen (ABs) for the upcoming season. This is an opportunity to work alongside seasoned mariners, support essential marine operations across Southcentral and Western Alaska, and be part of a team that takes pride in doing demanding work safely and professionally.

This role is ideal for mariners who value adventure, teamwork, and a strong safety culture—and who want a seasonal schedule that delivers real experience and real impact.

Why Join Cook Inlet Tug & Barge?

Work That Matters
Our crews support critical maritime logistics in remote Alaskan waters—this is not routine coastal sailing. Every voyage counts.

Adventure Built In
Experience Alaska from the deck of a working tug—remote ports, challenging conditions, and unforgettable scenery included.

Seasonal Structure
A defined season (four to eight months) allows you to focus fully on the work, then recharge or pursue other opportunities in the off-season.

Crew-First Safety Culture
Health and safety are not slogans here—they’re expectations, reinforced daily by leadership and crew alike.

The Role: Able Seaman (AB)

As an Able Seaman, you are a key member of the vessel crew, responsible for keeping the tug and barge in a constant state of readiness while supporting safe, efficient operations.

Working under the direction of the Captain, you will:

  • Make up and manage single and multiple barge tows
  • Provide clear direction, distance signals, and situational awareness to crew
  • Maintain deck safety by keeping all lines and gear properly stowed
  • Perform vessel inspections, cleaning, and routine maintenance
  • Operate and work around deck equipment, including winches, capstans, peaveys, pike poles, pumps, and articulated loaders
  • Support daily crew needs, including meal preparation and supply stocking
  • Uphold company policies, procedures, and maritime industry safety standards at all times

You are an integral part of the onboard safety culture and play a direct role in protecting your fellow crew members, the vessel, and the operation.

Required Qualifications
  • Valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with Able Seaman (AB) endorsement
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC)
  • Valid United States Passport
  • Ability to pass a criminal background check and meet requirements for entry into Canada
  • Valid driver’s license
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States
Working Conditions & Physical Requirements
  • Lodging and meals provided onboard the vessel
  • Company-provided transportation to and from the vessel
  • Must be physically capable of:
    • Boarding tugs and barges
    • Ascending and descending ladders
    • Balancing and working safely in a seaway
    • Kneeling, stooping, reaching overhead, and standing for extended periods
  • Comfortable working at heights and on narrow walkways
  • Ability to work 12-hour days, every day, for the full season
  • Regular exposure to all weather conditions, including rain, wind, snow, ice, and heat
How to Apply

Submit your application today at:
https://www.cookinlettug.com/careers

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Cook Inlet Tug & Barge is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse workforce. We take affirmative action to employ and advance qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. We are a drug-free workplace and participate in the E-Verify Employment Verification Program.

Explore transportation and logistics industry job opportunities from Hawaii to Alaska, and Washington State to throughout the Caribbean. Visit saltchukjobboard.com today!

Apply