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Ship Captain Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

HII

$82K - $103K/yr

TUGBOAT CAPTAIN/DESIGNATED DUTY ENGINEER Location: Newport News, Virginia, United States Date: Sep ... Newport News Shipbuilding US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes Full-Time Shift: Multiple ...

New

HII

$82K - $103K/yr

TUGBOAT CAPTAIN/DESIGNATED DUTY ENGINEER Location: Newport News, Virginia, United States Date: Sep ... Newport News Shipbuilding US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes Full-Time Shift: Multiple ...

New

American Cruise Lines

Deckhand

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

... Ships. Responsibilities: * Handling lines, gangways, anchors, and marine equipment under the guidance of Captains and Mates. * Responsible for daily exterior cleaning, line handling, and logistic ...

American Cruise Lines

Deckhand

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

... Ships. Responsibilities: * Handling lines, gangways, anchors, and marine equipment under the guidance of Captains and Mates. * Responsible for daily exterior cleaning, line handling, and logistic ...

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All JobsShip Captain JobsShip Captain Jobs in Virginia

Ship Captain information

See Virginia salary details

$15

$25

$47

How much do ship captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship captain in Virginia is $26.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $32.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

Is a ship captain a good career?

A ship captain is a high-responsibility role that involves overseeing vessel operations, navigation, and crew management. It requires extensive training, certifications such as a captain's license, and the ability to work long hours often at sea for extended periods. The career offers opportunities for advancement and travel but also involves significant responsibility and potential risks.
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Ship Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Captain job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,073 per year, or $26 per hour.

Shipyard Competent Person SCP

Marine Chemist Service Inc

Newport News, VA • On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

About the Role:
Marine Chemist Service Inc is looking for a skilled and safety-driven Shipyard Competent Person to join our team in Newport News and Norfolk, VA. This critical role puts you at the heart of maritime safety, ensuring hazardous conditions are identified and controlled in one of the most dynamic industrial environments in the country. If you thrive in a hands-on, high-stakes setting and take pride in keeping workers safe (as well as playing a vital role in national defense), we want to hear from you.

Responsibilities:
  • Coordinate with Marine Chemists and site personnel to ensure compliance with all applicable maritime safety regulations
  • Perform pre-entry and continuous safety inspections of vessels, tanks, and enclosed spaces
  • Conduct confined space entry assessments, atmospheric testing, and hazard evaluations in shipyard environments
  • Monitor and test for oxygen deficiency, flammable gases, and toxic atmospheres using calibrated detection equipment
  • Issue and manage confined space log of tests and inspections, hot work permits, and safety authorizations per OSHA 29 CFR 1915 standards
  • Maintain accurate documentation and records of all inspections, certifications, and atmospheric readings
  • Communicate hazard findings and safety requirements clearly to shipyard workers, supervisors, and clients
Requirements:
  • Current OSHA and USN/USCG-recognized Shipyard Competent Person certification
  • Working knowledge of OSHA 29 CFR 1915 shipyard employment safety standards
  • Experience with atmospheric testing equipment and confined space entry procedures
  • Ability to work aboard vessels, in confined spaces, and at heights in an active shipyard environment
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills for reporting and client interaction
  • Detail-oriented, safety-focused mindset with the ability to make sound decisions under pressure
  • Valid driver's license and ability to pass a background check and drug screening
  • DBIDS, NAVSEA, and NNS badges are a plus, but not required
About Us:
Marine Chemist Service Inc has built a trusted reputation in the maritime industry by delivering expert safety services to shipyards, vessel operators, and marine contractors worldwide. Our clients rely on us for precise, professional hazard assessments that keep their employees safe and their operations compliant. Our team members enjoy meaningful, impactful work in a specialized field with a company that values expertise, integrity, and a strong safety culture.