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Ship Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stand Out For Good

6am Shipment Captain

Marlton, NJ · On-site

196 - The Promenade at Sagemore - Marlton, NJ Who Are We? Stand Out For Good, Inc. is a rapidly growing women's fashion company with 5 unique brands, in 130+ locations, across 38 states. Our stores ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Portland, ME · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Brunswick, GA · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Morehead City, NC · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

New London, CT · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

New London, CT

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Charleston, SC · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Port Canaveral, FL

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Moundsville, WV · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Bucksport, ME · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Guilford, CT · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Camden, ME · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

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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 Aug 12, 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.

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 cities are hiring for Ship Captain jobs? Cities with the most Ship Captain job openings:
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Who are the top companies hiring for Ship Captain jobs? The top employers for Ship Captain jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Ship Captain jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ship Captain jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Ship Captain jobs? For Ship Captain jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Ship Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Captain job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,541 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Sea Tow Captain - Ocean Operations (Maine Coast)

Marina Holdings LLC

Yarmouth, ME

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Description

 Answer the Call. Protect Boaters. Respond When It Matters Most.
Marina Holdings is seeking an experienced and professional Ocean Operations Captain to provide on-water assistance, towing, recovery, and light salvage services along the Maine coast. This role is designed for a seasoned mariner who thrives in challenging conditions and takes pride in helping boaters through breakdowns, groundings, and marine emergencies.
 

Requirements

 Key Responsibilities
Respond to emergency and non-emergency calls for assistance.
Provide towing services for disabled vessels.
Perform vessel recovery and light salvage operations.
Assist grounded vessels and evaluate safe recovery methods.
Operate company response vessels in varying sea and weather conditions.
Coordinate with marinas, harbormasters, law enforcement, and emergency responders as needed.
Complete service reports and incident documentation.
Conduct vessel inspections and maintain operational readiness of equipment.
Deliver exceptional customer service during stressful situations.
Required Qualifications
Valid U.S. Coast Guard Captain's License (required).
Strong vessel-handling experience in coastal and offshore environments.
Knowledge of navigation, tides, currents, weather, and marine safety practices.
Ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
Excellent communication and customer service skills.
CPR and First Aid certification preferred.
Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
Ability to work weekends, holidays, and on-call schedules during boating season.
Physical Requirements
Ability to board vessels in varying sea conditions.
Lift and carry up to 75 pounds.
Work outdoors in all weather conditions.
Climb, kneel, bend, and perform physically demanding marine operations.

Marina Holdings is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and participates in the federal E-Verify program. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment background and drug screenings in accordance with applicable laws.  

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