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Ship Captain Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Moran Towing Corporation

Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

... ship docking services, marine transportation, LNG support operations, environmental recovery, and ... The Mate shall report directly to the Captain and is second in command. As a supervisor, all crew ...

The Walt Disney Company

Lead Physician

Richmond, VA · On-site

Staff Captain (Shipboard) Responsibilities : How You Will Make a Difference * Provide medical services (evaluation and treatment) for inpatient, outpatient, and ICU care onboard * Lead all aspects of ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Mount Vernon, VA · On-site

Create the daily Ship to Shore. * Host Officer Introduction and Excursion Briefing. * Assist in the delivery of the Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Mount Vernon, VA · On-site

Create the daily Ship to Shore. * Host Officer Introduction and Excursion Briefing. * Assist in the delivery of the Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities ...

McDonald's

General Manager

Chester, VA · On-site

$57K - $70K/yr

... captain of the ship. This is the top leadership role at the restaurant level-responsible for overseeing all operations, driving results, developing future leaders, and ensuring every guest leaves ...

McDonald's

General Manager

Richmond, VA · On-site

$57K - $70K/yr

... captain of the ship. This is the top leadership role at the restaurant level-responsible for overseeing all operations, driving results, developing future leaders, and ensuring every guest leaves ...

The Atlantic District

Agency Lead

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$220K - $250K/yr

As our Agency Lead, you will be the captain of our ship, steering our sales strategy and cultivating a workplace where people feel empowered to do their best work. You will have the unique chance to ...

The Juris Agency

Agency Lead

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

As our Agency Lead, you will be the captain of our ship, steering our sales strategy and cultivating a workplace where people feel empowered to do their best work. You will have the unique chance to ...

The Atlantic District

Agency Lead

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$220K - $250K/yr

As our Agency Lead, you will be the captain of our ship, steering our sales strategy and cultivating a workplace where people feel empowered to do their best work. You will have the unique chance to ...

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Showing results 21-40

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.

H5242 - Ferry Captain Wage

Virginia Department of Transportation

Surry, VA • On-site

$34.19 - $55.57/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Virginia Department Of Transportation rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

595th of 856 rated public administrative organizations

Job description


Perform special duties as assigned. Pilot ferry vessel on designated waters, carrying passengers and vehicles. Ensure safety of passengers, crew, and cargo. Obey all U.S. Coast Guard regulations governing ferry operations.
How you will contribute:
  • Miscellaneous: Other duties as directed to meet the needs of the ferry.
  • Passenger Management : Ensure passengers and vehicles are loaded and unloaded in a safe and orderly manner. Maintain accurate records of vehicles and passengers carried. Provide information and assistance to public as needed. Resolve issues with passengers.
  • Perform duties as assigned. :
  • Vessel Management : Pilot vessel following USCG and VDOT regulations and policies. Maintain posted schedule without any justified complaints. Maintain vessel readiness fur USCG inspections. Maintain ships log with all required information.
  • Vessel Security and Emergency Response : Ensure crew is alert to security violations and suspicious behavior. Perform all required drills and training. Supervise all emergency situations and ensure timely and appropriate actions taken. Check and secure all internal and external entry points that are not used for passenger access. Log and report violations and suspicious behavior.

    • What will make you successful:
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing and to interact professionally with passengers and crew.
  • Ability to complete and maintain records and reports.
  • Ability to comply with appropriate U.S. Coast Guard and VDOT rules and regulations.
  • Ability to respond effectively in emergency situations.
  • Skill and ability to pilot ferry vessel safely.

    • Minimum Qualifications:
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing and to interact professionally with passengers and crew.
  • Ability to complete and maintain records and reports.
  • Ability to comply with appropriate U.S. Coast Guard and VDOT rules and regulations.
  • Ability to respond effectively in emergency situations.
  • Knowledge of U.S Coast Guard regulations governing ferry operations.
  • Must hold a minimum MMC - endorsed as Master 1600 gross tons, Inland, Radar Observer Certificate, Marine Radio Operator Permit.
  • Skill and ability to pilot ferry vessel safely.
  • Valid driver's license.

    • Additional Considerations:
  • A combination of training, experience, or education in Watercraft Operations, or related field desired.

    • Click below to learn more about the Competency Model associated with this Position:
    Competency Model
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements
    VDOT employees must abide by VDOTs Code of Ethics and the Commonwealths Standards of Conduct.
    VDOT Code of Ethics
    Standards of Conduct
    Qualifications
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements

    What Virginia Department Of Transportation employees say

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