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Ship Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... ship mooring, dredging, as well as construction andlandscaping materials. Position Summary ... Captains are responsible for the safe operation of vesselsand barges. Job Responsibilities: * Total ...

For more than 70 years, WoodResources has continued to provide marine towing, ship mooring, dredging, as well as construction andlandscaping materials. Position Summary: Captains are responsible for ...

Towing Trip/Fill-In Captain

Avondale, LA ยท On-site

$650 - $700/day

... ship mooring, dredging, as well as construction andlandscaping materials. Position Summary ... Captains are responsible for the safe operation of vesselsand barges. Job Responsibilities: * Total ...

This position reports to the Ship Captain and has responsibility for the operation and safety of vessel(s) during an assigned shift, maintenance of the water vessel(s) while afloat and at dock, and ...

As Captain, you will safely and efficiently operate towing vessels in support of barge towing, and marine transportation operations in and out of harbors, estuaries, straits, sounds and rivers. This ...

As Captain, you will safely and efficiently operate towing vessels in support of barge towing, and marine transportation operations in and out of harbors, estuaries, straits, sounds and rivers. This ...

The Captain reports to the General Manager or his/her designated representative. Supervises: * The Captain is required to supervise all crewmembers of the vessel to which he/she is assigned.

Soccer Leagues Match Captain Location: 950 East Main St., Allen, TX Report To: Leagues Manager or Coordinator Hours Required: Candidates must be able to work evenings and weekends At TOCA, our Match ...

Captains

Baltimore, MD ยท On-site

The Captain reports to the General Manager or his/her designated representative. Supervises: * The Captain is required to supervise all crewmembers of the vessel to which he/she is assigned.

Soccer Leagues Match Captain Location: 10020 S. Compass Dr, Rossford, OH Report To: Leagues Manager or Coordinator Hours Required: Candidates must be able to work evenings and weekends At TOCA, our ...

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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 Jun 11, 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?

The salary of a ship captain varies depending on the vessel type, experience, and location, but typically ranges from $70,000 to over $150,000 annually. Experienced captains with certifications such as STCW and extensive sea time tend to earn higher wages, especially on large commercial 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.

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 is the highest paid job on a ship?

The highest paid job on a ship is typically the Chief Engineer or Captain, with captains earning the most due to their leadership and responsibility for the vessel's operation. Salaries vary based on vessel size, experience, and certifications, but captains often earn six-figure salaries on large commercial ships. Advanced skills, licenses, and extensive experience are required for these top-paying roles.

Are boat captains in high demand?

Boat captains are in high demand in the maritime industry due to ongoing needs for shipping, transportation, and recreational boating. Employment opportunities often require relevant certifications, such as a captain's license, and experience navigating various vessel types and environments.

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.

How do you become a ship's Captain?

To become a ship's captain, you typically need to gain experience as a deck officer by working on ships, obtain necessary certifications such as a Master Mariner license, and accumulate several years of maritime experience. Additional training in navigation, safety, and leadership is also required to qualify for the role.

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.

What cities are hiring for Ship Captain jobs? Cities with the most Ship Captain job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ship Captain jobs? The most popular types of Ship Captain jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Ship Captain jobs? The top employers for Ship Captain jobs are:
What states have the most Ship Captain jobs? States with the most job openings for Ship Captain jobs include:
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,541 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Captain, Mobile Ship Target

Captain, Mobile Ship Target

Systems Application & Technologies Inc

Port Hueneme, CA โ€ข On-site

$40.64/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 hours ago


Job description

Description:

Position Type: Full-time, Exempt

Work Location: Naval Base Ventura County, Port Hueneme, CA

Pay Range: $40.64/hr.


Systems Application & Technologies, Inc. (SA-TECH) is a progressive and well-established Department of Defense (DoD) contractor specializing in Range operations and maintenance (O weapons testing; facilities management; aerial, ground and seaborne targets O technical, logistics and other engineering support; systems integration; electronics and communications maintenance services; and a growing cybersecurity business. We are highly focused and, among other efforts, currently operate a dozen active test and/or training ranges for the Army, Air Force and Navy. Our 33-year heritage is founded on supporting complex and diverse DoD programs and weโ€™ve developed a standout reputation for providing the highest quality services, superior workmanship and cost-effective results while achieving complete customer satisfaction.


At Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC), SA-TECH operates and performs operational and intermediate level maintenance for aerial and seaborne assets in support of the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Divisionโ€™s (NAWCWDโ€™s) Targets and Marine Operations Division, including air and sea vehicles and vessels used for manned and unmanned training and test events.


We are currently seeking to hire a qualified Captain for a Mobile Ship Target to serve as Shipโ€™s Captain of a 264-ft steel Mobile Ship Target (MST II), located at NBVC Point Hueneme, CA.


Specific duties include (other duties may be added):

  • Main duties will be serving as Shipโ€™s Captain of 264 FT steel Mobile Ship Target (MST II), located at Point Hueneme, CA.
  • Direct daily vessel operations.
  • Perform scheduled and unscheduled vessel maintenance.
  • Follow established preventative maintenance programs utilizing technical service manuals and schematic charts for marine engines and related marine equipment.
  • Schedule workload with operational and crew resource management.
  • Oversee the required USCG safety training/drills vessel, record keeping to include running logs and trip reports.
  • Additional duties to serve as captain/crew on vessels ranging from 24โ€™ RHIB to 120โ€™ support vessels.
  • Support towing operations, target recovery, and offshore navigation in accordance with USCG standards.
  • Other duties, as needed.

Work Conditions:

  • Duties are performed both indoors and outdoors.
  • Outdoor duties may be performed on shore and afloat on even or uneven surfaces, which may be dry or wet.
  • Requires the ability to work in a seaborne environment with some shift work at remote locations with multiple over-night assignments.
  • Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
  • Travel to remote working locations required and routine deployments on support and target vessels may be required, INCONUS and occasional OCONUS for mission support.
  • Overtime required at times to support operations.
  • Work Schedule currently is a 9/80 schedule (Mon โ€“ Thurs 9 hours, alternating Fridays - 1 work 8 hrs., 1 off).
Requirements:

Education/Experience/Skills:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Technical school training or specialized training in the appropriate field required or a total of four-six (4-6) yearsโ€™ experience in performing the stated functions may replace education.
  • Experience in a military environment (E7+) or on a military facility preferred but not required.
  • Basic understanding of Computer/Networking/MS Office.
  • Works well with others as a member of a team.
  • Working knowledge of deck, and anchor winch operations.
  • Local knowledge of Southern California waters and coastal ports, with familiarity of military operations, highly desirable.
  • Knowledge in performing mechanical repairs on Caterpillar engines, desired.
  • Basic knowledge with generator systems and related marine auxiliary equipment, including hydraulics and electrical, desired.
  • Requires minimum USCG 100 Ton Credential.
  • Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
  • Must be able to travel CONUS and OCONUS to provide mission support when needed.
  • Current CA Driverโ€™s License required; must be able to be insured through companyโ€™s vehicle insurance policy while driving work/government/rental vehicles during working hours, and for the duration of employment.
  • U.S. Citizenship required and you must be able to obtain a U.S. DoD Security Secret Clearance prior to start date and maintain a Secret clearance throughout employment.
  • All candidates will be required to pass background screening to include SSN, Driver Record, and Criminal Background Investigation.
  • Must pass pre-employment physical to include: Physical, Drug Screen, Vision & Hearing testing, Medical Condition Certification and back X-rays.

___________________________________________________________________________________


Supporting Our Warfighters:

As a highly regarded DoD employer, SA-TECH recognizes that our success is indicative of our team members' hard work and dedication towards a common goalโ€ฆ Supporting our Warfighters. Along with unparalleled stability, we have the ingredients for superior performance with a servant leadership mentality that provides an affirmation of purpose and value in a team-oriented positive work environment. As such, we provide a sense of family, competitive pay and employee benefits, along with a strong commitment to the professional development of our workforce and for providing broad career opportunities throughout the United States.


SA-TECH provides employees with:

  • Employee Recognition
  • Above-Average Compensation
  • Competitive Employee Benefits
  • Continuous Training and Professional Development
  • Ample Career Advancement Opportunities

Benefits Offered:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life Insurance
  • Long-Term Disability
  • 401(k) match
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • EAP
  • Education Assistance
  • Paid time off and Holidays
  • Vacation and Sick Leave

Other Important Information You Should Know:

  • Expressing Interest: By applying to this posting, you are expressing interest in the advertised position but could be considered for other career opportunities within our company requiring similar skills and experience. Should a match be identified, you may be contacted for this as well as other openings, including future opportunities.
  • Work Schedules: SA-TECH supports a variety of alternate work schedules that provide additional flexibility to our employees. Schedules are program-dependent and range from standard 40 hours over a five-day work week while others may be different. These alternate schedules are strictly program-dependent and provide employees with additional time away from the office and are in addition to our Paid Time off benefits.
  • SA-TECH is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.
  • SA-TECH participates in the United States Department of Homeland Security E-Verify system and will verify information and photo submitted through the E-Verify system to verify authorization to work within the U.S.
  • The application window will close in 90 days; applicants are encouraged to apply within 5 - 30 days of the requisition posting date in order to receive optimal consideration.
  • At SA-TECH, our priority is always maintaining an achievement- and opportunity-oriented work environment for all of our employees, coupled with a dedication to a healthy work-life balance. We are passionate about the professional development of our workforce. Continuously demonstrating our commitment to the values of quality, integrity, and excellence, our goal is to serve and empower todayโ€™s - and tomorrowโ€™s - war fighters.
  • With our employees as our priority, we provide diverse opportunities across the United States designed to propel, develop, and boost careers. Our flexible work schedules, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits enable SA-TECH employees to live a healthy, fulfilling life at, and outside of, work. We place an emphasis on empowering our employees by fostering an inclusive environment built upon integrity and corporate responsibility.
  • If this sounds like a culture you connect with, youโ€™re invited to apply for this position. Or, if you are unsure whether your experience aligns with the requirements of this position, we encourage you to search on SA-TECH Careers , and apply for roles that perhaps better align with your qualifications.
All responses will be handled with strict confidentiality.________________________________________________

** Please note that the provided salary information is a general guideline. SA-TECH considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidateโ€™s work experience, education, training, and skills as well as market and business considerations when extending offers