VESSEL CAPTAIN
"The Captain may reside anywhere within the United States, provided he is available at the port of embarkation as required."
Our client is a marine transportation service provider offering a multitude of marine transportation services. Safety is their no. 1 top priority, and they are in search of a vessel captain that will echo those sentiments.
Primary Responsibilities
- Ensure the safe and efficient operation of the vessel, tow, and onboard crew during all phases of transit.
- Enforce company safety protocols and regulatory compliance during all watch periods.
- Accurately maintain and submit daily logs, reports, checklists, and voyage documentation.
- Act as the Vessel Security Officer and implement the Vessel Security Plan.
- Educate crew on cargo details and any associated risks, especially hazardous materials.
- Conduct routine inspections of life-saving appliances, firefighting systems, and emergency gear.
- Maintain vessel cleanliness and enforce sanitary and orderly living/work conditions.
- Lead scheduled drills and safety training exercises per company and USCG guidelines.
- Implement vessel operating procedures, maintain compliance with company policies, and support budget adherence.
- Provide direction and leadership to crew members; monitor performance and give feedback.
- Conduct internal inspections and participate in audits to identify safety or operational risks.
- Maintain effective communication with shore personnel, regulatory authorities, and other vessels.
- Prepare crew and vessel for emergency situations, including drills, evacuations, or unplanned incidents.
- Operate the vessel in alignment with environmental, safety, and security standards.
- Uphold company reputation through professional conduct with customers, port personnel, and the general public.
- Monitor and manage crew schedules to ensure proper rest and safe watch rotations.
- Execute other duties and responsibilities as assigned by management.
Minimum Qualifications
- Active USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with appropriate Towing Endorsement
- Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
- Radar Observer Endorsement
- Able to stand a 6-on/6-off watch schedule or 12-hour harbor watch
- Demonstrated experience operating with multiple barge tows (6+ preferred for river operations)
- Pass DOT drug testing and participate in random screening program
- Meet USCG physical qualifications and pass physical exam
- Strong communication skills—written and verbal—with ability to follow directives
- Effective time management and decision-making under pressure
- Ability to lead, supervise, and work collaboratively with a diverse crew
Preferred Qualifications
- High School Diploma or equivalent (GED)
- Previous experience in a Captain or senior crew role within inland or coastal towing operations
- Prior background in safety-critical marine transportation environments
Physical Demands
Due to the hazardous and dynamic nature of towing operations, all crew members must maintain physical readiness and endurance, including but not limited to:
- Walk up to two (2) miles daily across moving barges and vessels
- Lift and carry objects weighing 60–100 lbs over distances up to 1000 feet
- Ascend/descend ladders up to 40 feet in height
- Navigate tight spaces, including hatches as small as 18 inches in diameter
- Move safely across decks and structures both vertically and horizontally
- Work extended hours in varied weather conditions (sun, rain, wind, etc.)
- Maintain visual acuity and situational awareness at all times
- Remain alert and responsive throughout long shifts, typically 12 hours or more
TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION, SUBMIT YOUR RESUME TO: LINDA.POWELL@GOGPAC.COM
SALARY: $140K TO $200K LOCATION: REMOTE
All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.
GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.
