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Trainee Boat Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... the trainee in the performance of their duties. Big Valley Pilot Qualifications * High School ... Port Captain and Vice President, for promotion from within the company * Must be able to swim

Boating-safety, captain, first-aid, CPR, water-safety, radio-communications or related ... Training and Development The training pathway may include maritime safety, small-boat handling ...

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How much do trainee boat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee boat captain in the United States is $25.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a trainee boat captain do?

A Trainee Boat Captain learns how to operate and navigate boats under the supervision of an experienced captain. Their tasks often include assisting with daily boat operations, learning safety procedures, handling docking and undocking, and understanding maritime regulations. Trainees gain hands-on experience in navigation, communication, and emergency response. This role is essential for those aiming to become licensed boat captains in the future.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee boat captain?

To thrive as a Trainee Boat Captain, you need foundational seamanship skills, basic navigation knowledge, and often a relevant maritime qualification or certification in progress. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, marine radios, and safety equipment is typically required. Strong communication, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safety, effective vessel operation, and successful teamwork on the water.

What are some common challenges faced by trainee boat captains during the training period?

Trainee boat captains often face challenges such as mastering vessel navigation, learning maritime regulations, and adapting to changing weather and water conditions. Additionally, they must develop strong communication skills to coordinate with crew members and ensure passenger safety. Balancing hands-on training with classroom instruction and adapting to shift work or irregular hours can also be demanding, but these experiences are essential for building the confidence and competence required for a successful career as a boat captain.

Is there a demand for trainee boat captains?

The demand for trainee boat captains is generally steady, especially in regions with active boating, tourism, or maritime industries. Employers often seek candidates with basic navigation skills and certifications such as a boating license or safety training, and opportunities can increase with seasonal tourism or expanding water-based recreation activities.

What cities are hiring for Trainee Boat Captain jobs?

Cities with the most Trainee Boat Captain job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Boat Captain jobs?

The most popular types of Boat Captain jobs are:

What states have the most Trainee Boat Captain jobs?

States with the most job openings for Trainee Boat Captain jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Trainee Boat Captain jobs?

For Trainee Boat Captain jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Trainee Boat Captain job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Big Valley Pilot

Vicksburg, MS • On-site

Ergon, Inc.
Oil and Gas Extraction • 1 - 5K employees

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Ergon Inc. rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview

Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a full-time Big Valley Pilot at its Vicksburg location.

If you are a hard-working person who likes helping others and being proud of the physical work you accomplish, this might be a job you would enjoy. EMIS services vessels and tows, and this job allows you to be a part of the support of the river crews.

Ergon is a family-owned oil and gas company based in the Jackson, MS, area with facilities across the US. EMIS is a subsidiary with facilities that support marine traffic up and down the Mississippi River. Our facilities are located in Vicksburg, MS; Memphis, TN; and Wood River, IL.

Ergon offers a competitive benefits package: 401(k) Matching, Health, Life, Dental, Holidays, Vacation, Sick Leave, Tuition Assistance, and Profit Sharing

Responsibilities

The Big Valley Pilot ensures the safe and efficient operation and performance of his crew, vessel, and tow in a manner that complies with company policy, U.S. Coast Guard rules and regulations, and federal, state, and local laws.

  • Ensure that company policy, rules and regulations are followed.
  • Report violations of EMIS company policy or violations of federal, state, or local laws.
  • Ensure safe and efficient operation of the vessel while on watch.
  • Inspect all areas of the vessel and tow to ensure safety, proper maintenance, and a clean vessel ready for voyage.
  • Provide customer service according to the EMIS Mission Statement.
  • Ensure safe loading of supplies by forklift, and that all customer supplies are onboard before leaving the dock
  • Load parts and grocery orders when needed
  • Monitor the whiteboard in dispatch for incoming vessel needs
  • Complete an EMIS Multi-Purpose Tracking Form for items put off by customer vessels
  • Balance the cash drawer at the end of each shift, correcting mistakes as needed
  • Ensure all crewmembers on EMIS vessels and docks are using proper PPE.
  • Assist other operations as required by management.
  • Report incidents immediately to the appropriate supervisor and enter them in the vessel logs.
  • Ensure fire extinguishers are recharged or refilled as required for each type of extinguisher.
  • Ensure an adequate number of approved life preservers are on board.
  • Ensure an adequate quantity of first aid supplies on board the vessel.
  • Complete Towing Vessel Record in TowWorks each shift, which includes the following:
    • Engine Room Log
    • Pre-Sail Check List

When a Big Valley Pilot is assigned the task of training an upcoming pilot, the current pilot is considered the "Master of the Vessel" and is responsible for and will be held accountable for the actions of the trainee in the performance of their duties.

Big Valley Pilot Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Must have a U.S. Coast Guard 100-Ton Master\'s License
  • Must have sufficient time with EMIS to prove competence and leadership skills as determined by the Port Captain and Vice President, for promotion from within the company
  • Must be able to swim
  • Valid TWIC Card (Transportation Workers Identification Credential)
  • Must have a valid driver\'s license

We are an EEO/AAP employer.

Position: Big Valley Pilot

Employment offer contingent upon pre-employment drug test, background check, and MVR.

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