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Ship Master Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

Junior Ship Master

San Diego, CA

$85K - $110K/yr

Overview JUNIOR SHIP MASTER LOCATION: San Diego CA JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: Must hold or be eligible to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance CERTIFICATIONS: N/A TRAVEL:  25% travel: CONUS and ...

Astrion

Junior Ship Master

San Diego, CA · On-site

$77 - $94/hr

Overview JUNIOR SHIP MASTER LOCATION: San Diego CA JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: Must hold or be eligible to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance CERTIFICATIONS:N/A TRAVEL: 25% travel: CONUS and OCONUS.

Astrion

Junior Ship Master

San Diego, CA · On-site

$85K/yr

Overview JUNIOR SHIP MASTER LOCATION: San Diego CA JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: Must hold or be eligible to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance CERTIFICATIONS: N/A TRAVEL: 25% travel: CONUS and OCONUS.

Bender CCP

Metrology Specialist

Vernon, CA · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

... ship master reference planes and other large-scale datum structures) • Support field service projects at customer sites, including setup and data collection • Interpret engineering drawings, CAD ...

Bender CCP

Metrology Manager

Vernon, CA · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

... ship master reference planes and other large-scale datum structures) • Support field service projects at customer sites, including setup and data collection • Interpret engineering drawings, CAD ...

Hadrian Automation

Master Scheduler

Torrance, CA · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

... ships, and other mission-critical systems up to 10x faster and at significantly lower cost ... The Role The Master Scheduler is responsible for the Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) for key ...

Hadrian Automation, Inc

Master Scheduler

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

... ships, and other mission-critical systems up to 10x faster and at significantly lower cost ... The Role The Master Scheduler is responsible for the Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) for key ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Merced, CA

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

Provide security on ships, at bases and at military installations all around the world. Train to ... As a Master-at-Arms you may: * Provide security and physical protection for service members * Train ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Stockton, CA

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

Provide security on ships, at bases and at military installations all around the world. Train to ... As a Master-at-Arms you may: * Provide security and physical protection for service members * Train ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$19 - $24.25/hr

Provide security on ships, at bases and at military installations all around the world. Train to ... As a Master-at-Arms you may: * Provide security and physical protection for service members * Train ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Northridge, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $24/hr

Provide security on ships, at bases and at military installations all around the world. Train to ... As a Master-at-Arms you may: * Provide security and physical protection for service members * Train ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

Provide security on ships, at bases and at military installations all around the world. Train to ... As a Master-at-Arms you may: * Provide security and physical protection for service members * Train ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

San Jose, CA

$20 - $25.50/hr

Provide security on ships, at bases and at military installations all around the world. Train to ... As a Master-at-Arms you may: * Provide security and physical protection for service members * Train ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Los Angeles, CA

$18.75 - $24/hr

Provide security on ships, at bases and at military installations all around the world. Train to ... As a Master-at-Arms you may: * Provide security and physical protection for service members * Train ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

San Jose, CA · On-site

$20 - $25.50/hr

Provide security on ships, at bases and at military installations all around the world. Train to ... As a Master-at-Arms you may: * Provide security and physical protection for service members * Train ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

San Luis Obispo, CA

$18.75 - $24/hr

Provide security on ships, at bases and at military installations all around the world. Train to ... As a Master-at-Arms you may: * Provide security and physical protection for service members * Train ...

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All JobsShip Master JobsShip Master Jobs in California

Ship Master information

See California salary details

$8

$29

$65

How much do ship master jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship master in California is $29.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $38.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ship master?

Ship Masters, also known as captains, are licensed mariners who have overall command and responsibility for a commercial ship and its crew. They ensure the safe and efficient operation of the vessel, compliance with international and local maritime regulations, and oversee navigation, cargo operations, and crew management. Ship Masters also handle emergency situations, maintain communication with port authorities, and represent the ship's owner on board. Their leadership is crucial for the safety of passengers, crew, and cargo during voyages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ship master, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ship Master, you need an in-depth understanding of maritime navigation, vessel operations, safety regulations, and typically hold a Master Mariner license or equivalent certification. Proficiency with navigation systems (such as ECDIS and radar), communication equipment, and compliance management tools is essential. Strong leadership, decision-making, and crisis management skills help set exceptional Ship Masters apart. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe voyages, crew wellbeing, and adherence to international maritime laws.

What are some common challenges a ship master faces when managing a diverse crew at sea?

A Ship Master often oversees crew members from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds, which can present communication and teamwork challenges. Successfully managing this diversity requires strong interpersonal skills, clear communication protocols, and the ability to resolve conflicts quickly. Additionally, the Ship Master must ensure everyone adheres to safety standards and maritime regulations, often under stressful or rapidly changing conditions. Building trust and fostering a collaborative environment are key to maintaining crew morale and operational efficiency during long voyages.

What is the difference between Ship Master vs Marine Pilot?

AspectShip MasterMarine Pilot
CredentialsSTCW certifications, captain's licenseSTCW certifications, pilot license
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, overseeing entire vessel operationsOnshore or onboard, guiding ships through ports and narrow waterways
Industry UsageShipping companies, maritime industryPort authorities, maritime services
Primary RoleCommand and manage the vesselAssist ships in navigation within port areas

The main difference between a Ship Master and a Marine Pilot is that the Ship Master is responsible for the overall command of the vessel during voyages, while the Marine Pilot specializes in guiding ships safely through port waters and narrow channels. Both roles require maritime certifications, but their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

How much does a ship master make?

A ship master, also known as a captain, typically earns between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, vessel size, and employer. Salaries can vary based on the type of ship, certification level, and the region of operation, with many ship masters working long hours at sea and requiring maritime licenses.

What are popular job titles related to Ship Master jobs in California?

For Ship Master jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ship Master jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Ship Master jobs in California are:

Ship Master jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Master job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 72% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,756 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Junior Ship Master

Astrion

San Diego, CA

$85K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Overview

JUNIOR SHIP MASTER
LOCATION: San Diego CA

JOB STATUS: Full-time

CLEARANCE: Must hold or be eligible to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance
CERTIFICATIONS: N/A
 TRAVEL: 25% travel: CONUS and OCONUS. Embarked at sea overnight. 
 SALARY RANGE: Estimated $85,000 + USD annually*

*depending on experience, certifications, and qualifications

    

Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Junior Captain for the USV Operations and Sustainment program supporting Astrion Navy Division.  

   

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS   

  • CITIZENSHIP: U.S. Citizenship.  
  • CERTIFICATIONS: Current USCG MMC National Master Less Than 200 GRT, or higher.  
  • Must have at least 3 years of sea-going experience in a Master position. 
  • Proficiency with Microsoft 365 Suite. 
  • PASSPORT: Must have a valid passport. 
  • Must have a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) 

* (MMC and Passport must have a minimum of 6 months of validity prior to placement, or proof of renewal in progress.)  
 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS  

  • Experience operating with Navy/Military units. 
  • Experience with operating and maintaining hull, mechanical and electrical systems: Main propulsion diesel engines, marine diesel generators, fuel delivery systems, electric motors, pumps, 480/120 VAC and 24/12 VDC systems.   
  • Ability to read and understand technical drawings and schematics. 
  • Experience working with shipyard facilities.  
  • Experience with HelmConnect vessel management software. 
     

RESPONSIBILITIES  

  • Pilot 135’ MDUSV’s in and out of port or at sea when operating in a manned configuration.    
  • Operate,