Transportation · Command or supervise operations of ships and water vessels, such as tugboats and ferryboats
This profile is intended as career exploration guidance based on federal labor data. Actual job requirements, salaries, and opportunities vary by employer and location.
Entry Salary
$32–39k
First 1–2 years
Peak Salary
$61–72k
10+ years experience
Job Outlook
+0.5% · Slower than average
Projected growth of 0.5% from 2024 to 2034; about 4 openings projected per year.
Time to Start
2–4 years
College degree typical
Salary data sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, employer, and specialization.
Entry-Level Vessels
Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels
Experienced Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels
Senior Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels
Director of Transportation
You prioritize Independence
This career is strongly aligned with Independence — a core work value that shapes how people approach their career decisions.
You're strong in Operation and Control
Operation and Control is a top skill for this career, and it plays to what students like you naturally do best.
Good fit for your timeline
This career typically requires some college or a registered apprenticeship, which matches common student preparation goals.
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9 schools offer programs in this career field.
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