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Ship Captain Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Old Saybrook, CT · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Tampa, FL

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Morehead City, NC · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Guilford, CT · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Savannah, GA · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Brunswick, GA · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Portland, ME

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Portland, ME · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

New London, CT · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Petersburg, VA · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Bangor, ME · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Bangor, ME · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Wilmington, NC · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Brunswick, GA · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Camden, ME · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Wilmington, NC · On-site

Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

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All JobsShip Captain Assistant Jobs

Ship Captain Assistant information

See salary details

$15

$26

$47

How much do ship captain assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship captain assistant 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.

What is a boat captain's assistant called?

A boat captain's assistant is commonly called a mate or deckhand. These roles involve supporting the captain with navigation, safety procedures, and vessel maintenance, often requiring relevant certifications and maritime experience.

What is the difference between Ship Captain Assistant vs Ship Officer?

AspectShip Captain AssistantShip Officer
CredentialsSTCW certifications, maritime trainingSTCW certifications, maritime training
Work EnvironmentAssists the captain onboard ships, navigates, manages cargoOversees navigation, safety, and crew management
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, maritime industryShipping companies, maritime industry

Ship Captain Assistants support the captain with navigation, safety, and cargo operations, often working closely with ship officers. Ship Officers have broader responsibilities, including navigation, safety protocols, and crew management. Both roles require maritime certifications and work in similar environments, but Ship Officers typically hold more authority and responsibility onboard.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Ship Captain Assistant during voyages?

As a Ship Captain Assistant, you may encounter challenges such as managing communication between the bridge and crew, ensuring navigational accuracy, and assisting with emergency procedures. Adapting to shifting weather conditions and maintaining compliance with maritime regulations are also common aspects of the role. Teamwork is essential, as you’ll work closely with the captain, officers, and deckhands to ensure smooth operations and safety throughout the voyage.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $2000 a day often include specialized roles such as ship captains, senior corporate executives, certain medical specialists, and highly experienced consultants. These positions typically require extensive experience, certifications, or advanced skills, and may involve long hours or high responsibility levels.

Can I work on a ship with no experience?

Ship captain assistants typically need some maritime knowledge and basic safety training, but prior experience is not always required for entry-level positions. Many start in supporting roles and gain experience through on-the-job training and certifications such as STCW. Having good communication skills and a willingness to learn are important for advancing in this field.

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

To thrive as a Ship Captain Assistant, you need a solid understanding of maritime operations, navigation, and safety procedures, often supported by a relevant maritime certification or training. Familiarity with ship navigation systems, communication equipment, and safety management protocols is typically required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help you support the captain and crew effectively. These skills ensure the smooth and safe operation of the vessel, contributing to efficient voyages and compliance with maritime regulations.

What are Ship Captain Assistants?

Ship Captain Assistants, also known as deck officers or mates, support the ship's captain in navigating, operating, and managing vessels. Their responsibilities include overseeing crew members, maintaining safety procedures, assisting with navigation and communication, and ensuring cargo is loaded and unloaded properly. They are essential in ensuring the smooth and safe operation of the ship, often taking shifts to monitor the vessel's progress and handling emergencies when needed.

How much do ship captains make per hour?

Ship captains typically earn between $30 and $70 per hour, depending on the vessel type, experience, and location. Their compensation often includes additional benefits and overtime pay, especially for long voyages or offshore assignments.
More about Ship Captain Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Ship Captain Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Ship Captain Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ship Captain jobs? The most popular types of Ship Captain jobs are:
What states have the most Ship Captain Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Ship Captain Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ship Captain Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ship Captain Assistant jobs are:
Ship Captain Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Captain Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,541 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Captain

Captain

American Cruise Lines

Old Saybrook, CT • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Captain
American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American Cruise Lines cruise along inland and coastal waterways, including the East Coast, Alaska, Pacific Northwest, Great Lakes, Columbia & Snake Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern vessels accommodate 100 to 200 guests designed for safe navigation and exceptional service.
Captains are responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to company and regulatory standards, and representing the company as a professional leader. American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in challenging coastal and river waterways. Captains are meticulous professionals, in service to our guests and as examples to our crews.
Captains enjoy comfortable onboard accommodations and chef prepared meals. American Cruise Lines operates our own bridge simulator, enabling rigorous recurrent training and development focused on critical decision-making and advanced piloting skills. American Cruise Lines recruits and retains the best professional mariners in the industry.
At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values-Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America's Story on the Finest American Ships.
Responsibilities:
  • Ensure safety and security of passengers, crew, and vessel.
  • Operate the vessel in compliance with company and regulatory standards.
  • Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring.
  • Conduct daily inspections of all vessel spaces.
  • Supervise, lead, and develop deck officers.
  • Oversee Shipboard Engineer.
  • Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers.
  • Support hotel and culinary teams in delivering five-star guest service.
  • Maintain logs, reports, and administrative records.
  • Provide visible leadership through announcements, rounds, and guest interaction.

Work Schedule:
  • Typical March through November Cruise Season: 6 weeks on / 3 weeks off or 4 weeks on / 4 weeks off. Additional work periods may be possible during winter months aboard the few vessels operating or repositioning year-round.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.

Qualifications:
  • U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Captain experience on coastal and river waterways: min 2yrs, desired 5yrs with Z-drive experience.
  • Excellent communication skills and team-building skills.
  • Pre-employment drug test and continual participation in random testing.
  • Great Lakes Captain: Route familiarization and recency in all or several areas including: St. Lawrence Seaway, Welland Canal, St. Mary's River, and U.S. port routes in Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake Huron, and Lake Michigan.
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.

Essential Functions:
  • Ships experience forces from wind, waves, and currents, prompting them to exhibit six distinct motions known as ship motions. The six motions are surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch, and yaw. This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion.
  • Ability to work around 12 hours per day.
  • Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening, and passing through a 20" diameter hatch.
  • Ability to stand for your entire shift.
  • Ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to frequently bend, squat and reach.
  • Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to use stairs frequently.

Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive daily rate.
  • Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match.
  • Access to advanced simulator-based training.
  • Covered Expenses: American Cruise Lines provides travel, room and board, uniforms, and training.

Applicant Acknowledgment
By proceeding to apply for the above position, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of the job position for which I am applying, I agree that it accurately reflects the essential functions of the position, and I represent that I can complete the essential functions of the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
American Cruise Lines is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ‎American Cruise Lines bases all employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual ‎qualifications without regard to protected characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin and citizenship, age (40 and over), disability (including perceived disability), generic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. ‎This policy applies to all aspects of employment and employment decisions, including, but not limited to, ‎hiring, selection, job assignment, training, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access ‎to benefits.
*Job sites across the nation.
This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position and such duties and responsibilities may change without notice.

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