Ship Captain
Ship captains command merchant vessels, overseeing navigation, cargo operations, crew management, and regulatory compliance on domestic and international waterways. They hold a USCG Master Mariner license, manage bridge operations, and make critical decisions regarding weather routing, port entry, and emergency response. The BLS reports a median salary of $98,310 with 3% projected growth. Experience at sea is required to advance through officer ranks to captain.
A Day in the Life
A typical day at sea begins with a morning bridge watch, reviewing the ship's position, weather forecasts, and planned course adjustments. The captain meets with the chief officer about cargo stability and the chief engineer about fuel consumption. Mid-day involves conducting a safety drill with the crew and reviewing compliance documents. In port, the captain supervises cargo loading operations, coordinates with harbor pilots and port authorities, and handles customs paperwork.
Key Stats
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Salary Range
Entry: $55,000
Median: $98,310
Senior: $160,000
Job Growth