Careers in Transportation
Position Title
Ship Captain
What the job is like
Ship captains set the course of ships on rivers, lakes, and oceans and steer them safely into harbors, straits, estuaries, etc.
Captains must be knowledgeable about the rules and procedures for the craft, and must be licensed by the US Coast Guard according to class and tonnage of the vessel.
They operate vessels using radios, depth finders, radars, buoys and lighthouses; calculate sightings of land; direct and coordinate crew members; inspect vessel to ensure safe, efficient operation of equipment and vessel; monitor the loading and discharge of materials and passengers.
Essential skills or attributes
- Beginner Computer Skills (MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint)
- Basic Math Skills (Addition, Subtraction, Division, Multiplication, Fractions, Percentages)
- Good oral and written communication skills
- Basic knowledge of transportation rules and regulations
- Knowledge of Federal, State and Local regulations and compliance
- Experience in the application of regulatory compliance
- Ability to read and interpret industry related reports and data
Usual required training
High School Diploma/GED. Bachelor’s Degree or some college valued.
Operators and officers of water vessels must be licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Various licenses depending on the type of vessel and the body of water.
Similar job titles
Barge Master, Marine Pilot, River Pilot, Marine Superintendent
See other jobs in Transportation:
Commercial Driver – Motor Vehicle/OTR (Over The Road) | Delivery Scheduling Clerk | Dispatcher | Line Haul Coordinator
Longshore Worker | Mechanic/Diesel Technician | Railroad Engineer/Conductor | Safety Director | Sales & Marketing
Ship Captain | Terminal Manager