ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Ship Master Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Chico, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/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 · 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

Arcata, CA

$19 - $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

Bakersfield, CA

$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

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $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

Fresno, CA

$17.50 - $22/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

$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

Sacramento, CA

$18.75 - $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

San Luis Obispo, 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

Arcata, CA · On-site

$19 - $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

$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

Pomona, CA

$17.75 - $22.75/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

Fresno, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $22/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 · 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

Chico, CA

$17.75 - $22.75/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

Pomona, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/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

Merced, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Delphinus Engineering

Scheduler

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

The Scheduler is responsible for developing, maintaining, and analyzing integrated master schedules for ship repair, maintenance, and construction projects. This position requires expert-level ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

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.

MASTER-AT-ARMS

U.S. Navy

Chico, CA • On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Provide security and physical protection for service members, ships, bases, and military installations.

  • Train fellow Sailors in security, shore patrol duties, and handle security-related responsibilities such as crowd control, riot prevention, and operating military prisons.

  • Handle and care for security dogs, conduct waterborne security patrols, and assist in investigations of military justice violations.

United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 380 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

In any large community like the Navy, law enforcement and security are essential. Whether executing crime prevention programs or carrying out anti-terrorism measures, the Sailors working as the Navy’s military police are equipped to handle any situation. Provide security on ships, at bases and at military installations all around the world. Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The law enforcement and security community provide a wide range of critical services to every part of the Navy. As a Master-at-Arms you may:

  • Provide security and physical protection for service members
  • Train fellow Sailors in security and shore patrol duties
  • Serve as a security advisor for your squadron
  • Assist in crowd control and riot prevention
  • Operate military prisons (brigs) aboard ships and on shore
  • Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives
  • Conduct waterborne security patrol and interdiction operations
  • Provide protective service to high-ranking dignitaries and government officials
  • Conduct preliminary investigations into Uniform Code of Military Justice violations
  • Conduct crime prevention programs

WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • As an Enlisted Sailor working in law enforcement, you will have the chance to work in a number of environments. Though sometimes you may work behind a desk, you will often be out interacting with the community in a law enforcement capacity. You can expect to work at shore stations in the United States and overseas, aboard ships or as part of a maritime security squadron. In short, your assignments could take you anywhere in the world.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

  • U.S. citizen or equivalent
  • High school graduate or equivalent
  • 17 years of age or older

PAY AND BENEFITS

From the day you start, you’ll receive:

  • Competitive salary
  • Potential to earn a bonus upon enlistment
  • Free health insurance
  • Free housing
  • A retirement plan
  • Paid training

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

  • Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance
  • Post-9/11 GI Bill, up to 100% tuition
  • Professional credentials and certifications
  • College credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education

PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

  • Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Masters-at-Arms in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes.
  • For annual training, Masters-at-Arms may serve anywhere in the world—on ships or at bases and installations

What United States Navy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

US Navy logo

About US Navy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All US Navy Jobs

Apply