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Vessel Master Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Commercial Barge Line

Vessel Cook

Memphis, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Work closely with vessel master to ensure vessel budgets are maintained. * Travel to the designated port location assigned to a crew location. What we are looking for... You will need to have:

Illinois Marine Towing

Vessel Pilot

Joliet, IL · On-site

While on watch and in the absence of the Master, the Pilot exercises the authority of the Master. II. MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Responsible for reporting any relevant vessel condition information ...

Illinois Marine Towing

Vessel Pilot

Inland, NE

While on watch and in the absence of the Master, the Pilot exercises the authority of the Master. II. MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Responsible for reporting any relevant vessel condition information ...

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Vessel Cook

Cairo, IL

$14 - $17.50/hr

Work closely with vessel master to ensure vessel budgets are maintained. * Travel to the designated port location assigned to a crew location. What we are looking for... You will need to have:

Edison Chouest Offshore

Master (Crew Boat)

LA · On-site

$45.75 - $61/hr

Reviewing the MS Manuals to include any relevant vessel documentation and submitting shore-side to the DPA an AMR/Annual Master Review * The Annual Master Review is designed to report any ...

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$5

$58

How much do vessel master jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for vessel master in the United States is $58.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57.93 and $58.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the duties of a vessel master?

A vessel master is responsible for the safe operation and navigation of the ship, overseeing crew, ensuring compliance with maritime regulations, and managing cargo operations. They also make critical decisions during emergencies and maintain communication with port authorities and company management. Certification and experience in navigation, safety procedures, and leadership are essential for this role.

What is the highest paid job on a ship?

The highest paid job on a ship is typically the Captain or Master, who is responsible for the vessel's safety, navigation, and overall operation. They usually hold extensive experience, certifications, and command authority, earning the highest salaries among crew members. Salaries vary based on vessel type, size, and company, but captains often earn six-figure incomes on large commercial ships or luxury yachts.

What is the job description of a vessel master?

A vessel master, also known as a captain, is responsible for the safe operation and navigation of a ship, overseeing crew, ensuring compliance with maritime regulations, and managing cargo and vessel maintenance. They hold relevant certifications such as a master mariner license and typically work long hours at sea, making critical decisions to ensure safety and efficiency.

What is the difference between Vessel Master vs Chief Officer?

AspectVessel MasterChief Officer
CertificationsSTCW Master, Marine LicenseSTCW Officer, Marine License
Work EnvironmentOverall vessel command, navigation, safetyDeck operations, cargo handling, safety management
ResponsibilitiesVessel navigation, crew management, safety complianceCargo operations, deck maintenance, safety procedures

The Vessel Master is responsible for the entire vessel's operation, navigation, and safety, acting as the captain. The Chief Officer reports to the Vessel Master and focuses on cargo operations, deck safety, and maintenance. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in scope of responsibilities and authority onboard.

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

To thrive as a Vessel Master, you need deep knowledge of maritime navigation, vessel operations, and compliance with international maritime regulations, typically supported by a valid master's license and extensive sea-time experience. Familiarity with navigation systems (such as ECDIS and radar), safety management systems, and communication equipment is essential. Strong leadership, decision-making, and crisis management abilities help set successful Vessel Masters apart. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and lawful operation of vessels while protecting crew, cargo, and the marine environment.

What are Vessel Masters?

A Vessel Master, also known as a ship captain, is the person in overall command of a vessel. They are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the ship, including navigation, crew management, compliance with maritime laws, and the safety of passengers, cargo, and the vessel itself. Vessel Masters make critical decisions during voyages, oversee maintenance and inspections, and ensure that all regulations and safety protocols are followed. Their role is essential for the successful operation of commercial, passenger, or cargo vessels at sea.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Vessel Masters, also known as ship captains, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with experience, certifications, and working on large commercial vessels or in specialized industries like offshore drilling. High earnings often depend on seniority, the size and type of vessel, and the complexity of the operations involved.

What are some typical challenges Vessel Masters face when managing crew and operations during long voyages?

Vessel Masters often encounter challenges related to maintaining crew morale and discipline during extended periods at sea, as well as ensuring effective communication among a diverse team. They must balance operational demands, such as navigation and cargo management, with strict adherence to safety and regulatory standards. Additionally, unexpected weather changes or equipment issues can require quick decision-making and adaptability. Successful Vessel Masters foster a collaborative environment and are proactive in addressing conflicts to ensure smooth operations throughout the voyage.
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Vessel Master jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vessel Master job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,634 per year, or $58 per hour.

Vessel Master (Seagoing) - UIC Bowhead Transport, LLC

UIC Alaska

Anchorage, AK • Remote

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Overview

UIC Bowhead Transport, LLC seeks an experienced Vessel Captain/Master to command and operate a landing craft in the challenging and dynamic waters of Alaska, including the Bering Sea, Chukchi Sea, Beaufort Sea, and the Gulf of Alaska. This role requires strong leadership, deep navigational expertise, and a safety-first mindset, with proven ability to operate in remote and harsh marine environments. The Captain/Master is fully responsible for vessel safety, crew management, regulatory compliance, navigation, cargo operations (if applicable), and overall mission execution.

Responsibilities

Essential functions will include:

Vessel Command & Operations

  • Serve as master of the vessel, maintaining full responsibility for safe navigation and operation.
  • Plan and execute voyages in Alaska waters, including ice-affected regions and remote routes.
  • Maintain readiness for changing sea states, weather extremes, limited port support, and emergency response needs.

Safety & Compliance

  • Ensure full compliance with USCG regulations (if applicable) and company safety policies.
  • Conduct safety drills, emergency preparedness training, and maintain a strong safety culture onboard.
  • Oversee vessel inspections, audits, and required documentation.

Crew Leadership

  • Lead, manage, and mentor crew members in a professional and respectful manner.
  • Ensure crew competency, proper watch schedules, fatigue management, and adherence to maritime best practices.
  • Coordinate with Chief Mate, Chief Engineer, and department heads to ensure smooth vessel operations.

Navigation & Watchkeeping

  • Maintain high standards of watchkeeping and navigational accuracy.
  • Utilize ECDIS, radar, AIS, GPS, and traditional navigation methods as required.
  • Manage route planning, bridge resource management, and risk mitigation.

Maintenance & Reporting

  • Coordinate maintenance and operational needs with engineering and shore-side management.
  • Maintain accurate logs, voyage reports, safety records, and incident reports.
  • Communicate regularly with company leadership on vessel status, schedule, and operational needs.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

  • Strong leadership and crew management ability.
  • Calm, decisive judgment under pressure.
  • Excellent communication (ship-to-shore, crew, regulatory agencies).
  • High attention to safety, detail, and compliance.
  • Strong problem-solving and operational planning skills.
Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Valid USCG Master License (appropriate tonnage for vessel size).
  • Prefer a master of tow endorsement.
  • STCW certification (current and appropriate for role).
  • Current TWIC.
  • Current USCG medical certificate.
  • Proven experience as Master/Captain on large vessels (shipping, cargo, research, offshore support, or similar).
  • Strong working knowledge of:
    • Cold weather operations.
    • Heavy seas and remote operations.
    • Emergency response protocols.
    • USCG maritime compliance.

  • Must be able to pass:

    • Pre-employment drug screening
    • Background check
    • Physical/medical clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior command experience specifically in:
    • Bering Sea
    • Chukchi Sea
    • Beaufort Sea
    • Gulf of Alaska
  • Ice navigation experience and/or polar operations background.
  • Experience with:
    • Dynamic weather routing.
    • Long-duration remote deployments.
    • Cargo handling, towing, or specialized mission operations (as applicable).

Physical and Mental Demands:

  • Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
  • Ability to perform prolonged standing, sitting, twisting, kneeling, squatting, and reaching.
  • Full range of motion of extremities and spine.
  • Good balance and coordination on uneven and slippery surfaces.
  • Ability to climb ladders, stairwells, and pushknees.
  • Ability to step 2 feet horizontally and vertically when transferring between vessels and docks.
  • Ability to lift:
    • 65 lbs floor to knuckle (daily)
    • 65 lbs floor to waist (daily)
    • 30 lbs floor to shoulder (daily)
    • 10 lbs floor to crown (daily)
    • Ability to carry 30 lbs for 30 feet
    • Ability to perform medium-heavy labor in extreme weather conditions while wearing required PPE.

Working Conditions:

  • Rotational schedule or extended deployments (depending on contract needs).
  • Work performed in harsh and remote Arctic/Alaska conditions.

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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