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Vessel Master Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

US Tuna Corp

Vessel Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18K - $21K/mo

Applicant must have a current US Master License (USCG) for Fishing Vessel, 1500 GRT. Master would be employed and live on a large commercial tuna purse seiner vessel for 45 to 70 days. The vessel ...

CARDINAL POINT CAPTAINS INC

$32.58/hr

... vessel Master. This position requires a strong understanding of maritime operations, navigation, safety standards, and the ability to assist and communicate effectively with both government ...

Hornblower

Deckhand

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Report safety, operational, and environmental issues to the vessel master. * Additional job duties as assigned. Requirements & Qualifications: * HS Diploma or equivalent * Valid Transportation Worker ...

Hornblower

Marine Operations - Deckhand

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Report safety, operational, and environmental issues to the vessel master. * Additional job duties as assigned. Requirements & Qualifications: * HS Diploma or equivalent * Valid Transportation Worker ...

RPM Living

Dock Master

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Position Summary The Dock Master is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the marina ... Manage slip assignments, vessel records, waitlists, occupancy, and dock access in accordance with ...

RPM Living

Dock Master

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Position Summary The Dock Master is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the marina ... Manage slip assignments, vessel records, waitlists, occupancy, and dock access in accordance with ...

RPM Living

Dock Master

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Position Summary The Dock Master is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the marina ... Manage slip assignments, vessel records, waitlists, occupancy, and dock access in accordance with ...

Astrion

Junior Ship Master

San Diego, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Overview JUNIOR SHIP MASTER LOCATION: San Diego CA JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: Must hold or be ... Experience with HelmConnect vessel management software. RESPONSIBILITIES   * Pilot 135' MDUSV ...

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 ... Experience with HelmConnect vessel management software. RESPONSIBILITIES * Pilot 135' MDUSV's in ...

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Vessel Master information

See California salary details

$9

$32

$66

How much do vessel master jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for vessel master in California is $32.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $39.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vessel master?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a vessel master?

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 challenges do 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.

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 popular job titles related to Vessel Master jobs in California?

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

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Vessel Master jobs in CA?

For Vessel Master jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Vessel Master jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vessel 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 $66,790 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Oasis Systems, LLC Maritime Recruiting Event in San Diego (4/26/22) & Ventura, CA (4/27/22) - Mul...

Ventura, CA • On-site

Astrion
See more jobs at Astrionexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Overview

Attention Maritime Professionals! OASIS Systems, LLC is hosting two Recruiting Events in San Diego and Port Hueneme, CA. We are so excited to share our NEW Maritime job openings with you. This will be a great opportunity to meet our Recruiters and Hiring Managers and hear more about Oasis.

Please be sure to bring an updated copy of your resume as we will be conducting on the spot interviews. Click on each position for a detailed position description. If you would like to attend one of our recruiting events, please be sure to secure your spot today Click here to RSVP 

If you are able to attend or know someone who may be interested, please RSVP below. If you are not able to make any of the events, no worries, please reach out to Nickole Halpine (Nickole.Halpine@oasissystems.com) or Vanessa Francis-Stipe (Vanessa.Francis-Stipe@oasissystems.com) and we will gladly schedule a phone interview with you! 

Remember to Click here to RSVP 

 Stone Brewery (San Diego)

Address: 2816 Historic Decatur Rd UNIT 116, San Diego, CA 92106Event Date: Tuesday, April 26, 2022Event Time: 3:30 pm - 6:30 pmThe Raven Tavern (Ventura)

Address: 1651 Victoria Ave, Oxnard, CA 93035Event Date: Wednesday, April 27, 2022

Event Time: 3:30 pm - 6:30 pm

Click on corresponding link below to view the detailed position description: 

  • Program Manager Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) REQ# 12081
  • Sustainment Manager Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) REQ# 12082
  • Lead Engineer - Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) REQ# 12078
  • Operations Manager Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) REQ# 12079
  • Vessel Chief Mate (Vessel Operations - Officer) REQ# 12132
  • Vessel Mate (Vessel Operations - Crew) REQ# 12077
  • Vessel Master (Vessel Operations Officer) REQ# 12076
  • QMED (Vessel Operations Crew) REQ# 12075
  • Vessel Chief Engineer (Vessel Operations Officer) REQ# 12074
  • Vessel Assistant Engineer (Vessel Operations Officer) REQ# 12073
  • Able Seaman (Vessel Operations Crew) REQ# 12068
  • Engineer REQ# 12114
  • Maintenance Technicians (Foreman, Journeyman, Apprentice) REQ# 12116
  • Financial/Business/Support/Admin Personnel (Mid-level and Junior) REQ# 12115
  • Program/Project Manager (Program/Project/Operations Management Personnel) (Senior and Mid-Level) REQ# 12113
  • USV Training Manager - Program/Project/Operations Management Personnel (Mid-level) REQ# 12080
  • USV Logistics Manager - Program/Project/Operations Management Personnel (Mid-level) REQ# 12071
  • USV Waterfront Maintenance Manager (Mid-Level) REQ# 12069
  • USV Combat Systems Sustainment Manager - Program/Project/Operations Management Personnel (Mid-Level) REQ# 12067
  • USV Waterfront Operations Manager - Program/Project/Operations Management Personnel (Mid-level) REQ# 12066

If you have any questions regarding the event or the positions, please contact us! 

Before you go, have you RSVP'd? No? Then please click here

Employment Type: OTHER

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