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Ship Captain Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

CARDINAL POINT CAPTAINS INC

Steward Assistant

Milwaukee, WI

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

Description Cardinal Point Captains, Inc. (CPC) is seeking a Steward Assistant to work aboard the ... Clean and prepare crew cabins before and during voyages, ensuring they meet the ship's cleanliness ...

SkipperBud's

Dock Attendant

Sturgeon Bay, WI

$14.25 - $16.50/hr

... Captains Direct Reports: N/A KEY TASKS: * Able to assist customers with docking and tying of ... Coordinate with the Ships Store/Marina or Parts Manager to ensure proper inventory levels of fuel ...

SkipperBud's

Dock Attendant

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$14.50 - $17/hr

... Captains Direct Reports: N/A KEY TASKS: * Able to assist customers with docking and tying of ... Coordinate with the Ships Store/Marina or Parts Manager to ensure proper inventory levels of fuel ...

Rust-Oleum

Selector/Material Handler Nights

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

After all, our founder, sea captain Robert Fergusson, didn't particularly set out to invent rust preventive paint. He just wanted to keep his ship intact and stumbled upon a valuable solution. Today ...

Rust-Oleum

Selector/Material Handler Nights

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

After all, our founder, sea captain Robert Fergusson, didn't particularly set out to invent rust preventive paint. He just wanted to keep his ship intact and stumbled upon a valuable solution. Today ...

Rust-Oleum

Selector/Material Handler Nights

Kenosha, WI

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

After all, our founder, sea captain Robert Fergusson, didn't particularly set out to invent rust preventive paint. He just wanted to keep his ship intact and stumbled upon a valuable solution. Today ...

Kop-Coat, Inc.

Selector/Material Handler Nights

Kenosha, WI

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

After all, our founder, sea captain Robert Fergusson, didn't particularly set out to invent rust preventive paint. He just wanted to keep his ship intact and stumbled upon a valuable solution. Today ...

SkipperBud's

Dock Attendant

Sturgeon Bay, WI · On-site

$14.25 - $16.50/hr

... Captains Direct Reports: N/A KEY TASKS: * Able to assist customers with docking and tying of ... Coordinate with the Ships Store/Marina or Parts Manager to ensure proper inventory levels of fuel ...

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All JobsShip Captain JobsShip Captain Jobs in Wisconsin

Ship Captain information

See Wisconsin salary details

$16

$26

$48

How much do ship captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship captain in Wisconsin is $26.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $32.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 often involves long periods away from home. The career can be financially rewarding but demands strong leadership skills and adherence to safety regulations.

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 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 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.

More about Ship Captain jobs
What are popular job titles related to Ship Captain jobs in Wisconsin? For Ship Captain jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ship Captain jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Ship Captain jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Ship Captain jobs in WI? For Ship Captain jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Ship Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Captain job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,051 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Engineer - Unlicensed

American Cruise Lines

Mcfarland, WI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Engineer – Unlicensed
American Cruise Lines is seeking Engineers for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers, Great Lakes, and Mississippi-Ohio-Cumberland-Tennessee-Arkansas Rivers. Our U.S. flag ships are state-of-the art designed for safe operation and five-star service to 100-200 guests.
The Engineer is responsible for the overall technical operation, maintenance, and safe performance of the ship, ensuring the efficient functioning of propulsion, auxiliary, and onboard systems in full compliance with maritime regulations. Engineers provide 24-hour response to machinery and system issues and oversee the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of all vessel equipment, including pumps, motors, engines, electrical and plumbing systems, water makers, marine safety devices, elevators, electronics, launches, rescue craft, and other critical systems.

Engineers report directly to the ship’s Captain regarding daily vessel operations and maintenance, while coordinating repairs, professional development, scheduling, training, and mentoring in collaboration with Regional Port Engineers.
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:
  • Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot all shipboard machinery, including propulsion, auxiliary, and electrical systems.
  • Conduct regular inspections and provide 24-hour response for technical issues and emergencies.
  • Support vessel docking, logistics, and operational maintenance as needed.
  • Implement maintenance schedules to keep equipment in optimal condition.
  • Ensure compliance with company policies, maritime regulations, and safety standards.
  • Document maintenance, repairs, liquid transfers, and inventory.
  • Execute emergency procedures for technical incidents such as engine failures, fires, or flooding.
  • Promote safety culture and supervise crew adherence to protocols.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and comfortable environment for passengers and crew.
  • Conduct daily Deck Security Watch.
  • Optimize fuel consumption to reduce costs and environmental impact.
  • Manage spare parts, supplies, and liquid transfers.
  • Oversee contractor repairs on machinery and systems.
  • Collaborate with Hotel Officers and Service Crew to support five-star guest service.
  • Maintain exemplary grooming, uniform appearance, and professional conduct.
Qualifications:
  • Experience with diesel machinery, hydraulics, and electrical systems.
  • Knowledge of shipboard machinery and auxiliary systems.
  • Strong work habits, self-discipline, and attention to personal grooming.
  • Good communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to follow technical procedures and assist with maintenance and troubleshooting.
  • TWIC – Transportation Worker Identification Card.
  • Pre-employment drug test and participation in ongoing random testing.
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.
Work Schedule:
  • 7 days per week while onboard the ship.
  • Year-round Season rotation 4 weeks on: 4 weeks off.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.
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.
  • 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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