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Ship Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Alton, IL · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Norfolk, VA · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Mobile, AL

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Brunswick, GA · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Point Pleasant, WV

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Grand Rivers, KY · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Bucksport, ME · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Marco Island, FL · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Portland, ME · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Red Wing, MN · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Norfolk, VA · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Tampa, FL · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Arlington, OR · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Nashville, TN · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Providence, RI · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Nashville, TN · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Tampa, FL

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to ...

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Ship Pilot information

See salary details

$72K

$185.6K

$247K

How much do ship pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for ship pilot in the United States is $185,569.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $173,500.00 and $209,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Ship Pilot vs Marine Pilot?

AspectShip PilotMarine Pilot
CredentialsRequires maritime licenses, pilot certifications, and navigation experienceRequires similar maritime licenses, pilot certifications, and navigation experience
Work EnvironmentOperates in ports, harbors, and coastal watersOperates in ports, harbors, and coastal waters
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, port authorities, maritime agenciesShipping companies, port authorities, maritime agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to similar roles in port navigation and vessel guidance

Both Ship Pilots and Marine Pilots are essential for navigating ships safely through port areas. They share similar credentials, work environments, and employers, focusing on guiding vessels in confined waters. The main difference lies in terminology, with 'Ship Pilot' being the more commonly used term in North America, while 'Marine Pilot' is often used internationally. Both roles require extensive maritime experience and licensing, ensuring safe and efficient port operations.

What are some common challenges ship pilots face when navigating busy ports?

Ship pilots frequently encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, limited visibility, and heavy marine traffic in busy ports. They must make quick decisions to maneuver large vessels safely in tight spaces while coordinating with harbor authorities, tugboats, and the ship’s crew. Effective communication and situational awareness are essential to avoid accidents and ensure efficient docking or undocking procedures. Adapting to different ship types and understanding each port's unique layout are also key aspects of the role.

What are ship pilots?

Ship pilots are highly trained maritime professionals responsible for navigating ships through challenging or congested waters, such as harbors, rivers, or canals. They possess expert knowledge of local waterways, tides, currents, and regulations, allowing them to safely guide vessels to and from ports. Ship pilots board incoming or outgoing ships and work closely with the ship's captain and crew to ensure a safe passage. Their expertise helps prevent accidents and protects the environment in sensitive maritime areas.

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

To thrive as a Ship Pilot, you need extensive maritime navigation knowledge, a valid pilot's license, and significant seafaring experience. Familiarity with radar, GPS navigation systems, electronic chart display systems, and local maritime regulations is essential. Strong situational awareness, decisive communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient maneuvering of vessels in often challenging and congested waterways.

What Is a Ship Pilot?

A ship pilot is a captain responsible for the overall operation and navigation on board a large boat or ship. The types of ships that can be piloted vary widely depending on the use of the vessel. Some common examples include cargo ships, oil tankers, and passenger ships. These ships can be piloted to any port whether it is on the ocean or water ways. Your job duties include overseeing the loading of cargo and passengers, establishing the proper navigation elements such as speed and direction, and ensuring the ship is in safe working order.

More about Ship Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Ship Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Ship Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ship Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Ship Pilot jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Ship Pilot jobs? The top employers for Ship Pilot jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Ship Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ship Pilot jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Ship Pilot jobs? For Ship Pilot jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Ship Pilot jobs near you
River Pilot

River Pilot

American Cruise Lines

Alton, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Ensure safety and security of passengers, crew, and vessel.

  • Operate the vessel in compliance with company and regulatory standards.

  • Conduct daily inspections of all vessel spaces.

Job description

River Pilot
American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet. American Cruise Lines cruise along inland and coastal waterways, including the East Coast, Alaska, Pacific Northwest, Great Lakes, Columbia amp; Snake Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern vessels accommodate 100 to 200 guests designed for safe navigation and exceptional service.

Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to company and regulatory standards, and representing the company as a professional leader. American Cruise Lines Nav Mates are experienced mariners with firsthand piloting experience in challenging coastal and river waterways. Our Nav Mates are prudent decision-makers continually assessing potential risk weeks, days, and hours ahead of the vessel and crew. Our Nav Mates are meticulous professionals, in service to our guests and as examples to our crews.

Nav Mates enjoy comfortable onboard accommodations and chef prepared meals. American Cruise Lines operates our own bridge simulator, enabling rigorous recurrent training and development focused on critical decision-making and advanced piloting skills. American Cruise Lines recruits and retains the best professional mariners in the industry.
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:
  • Ensure safety and security of passengers, crew, and vessel.
  • Operate the vessel in compliance with company and regulatory standards.
  • Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring.
  • Conduct daily inspections of all vessel spaces.
  • Maintain logs, reports, and administrative records
  • Support hotel and culinary teams in delivering five-star guest service.
Work Schedule:
  • Typical March through November Cruise Season: 6 weeks on / 3 weeks off or 4 weeks on / 4 weeks off. Additional work periods may be possible during winter months aboard the few vessels operating or repositioning year-round.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.
Qualifications:
  • U.S. Coast Guard Master’s license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Experience on coastal and river waterways: min 2yrs, desired 5yrs with Z-drive experience.
  • Excellent communication skills and team-building skills.
  • Pre-employment drug test and continual participation in random testing.
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.
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.
  • Access to advanced simulator-based training.
  • 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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