Captain Jobs in California

A Captain in the transportation industry plays a crucial role, often leading the operations of a ship, a plane, or other large vessels. They are responsible for ensuring the safety and efficiency of both the vessel and its crew, as well as cargo and passengers, if applicable. Captains plan the most efficient routes, monitor the vessel's condition and performance, supervise loading and unloading operations, and ensure adherence to all safety norms and regulations. Furthermore, they act as the primary point of communication between the vessel and ports, authorities, or company management.

Key skills for a Captain in the transportation industry include leadership, decision-making under pressure, and excellent communication. They must also be proficient in navigation and the operation of complex machinery. Necessary certifications vary by industry. For example, Captains of large commercial ships must hold a Master Mariner's Certificate. Airline Captains require an Airline Transport Pilot License. Before becoming a Captain, an individual might serve as a First Officer or Mate, gaining experience and proving their skills in a supporting role. Some may also have experience as a Deck Officer or Pilot, depending on the particular sector of the transportation industry.

1-8 of 8 Jobs

Port Captain

  • Saltchuk
  • Redondo Beach, CA
  • 19 hours ago
  • Redondo Beach, CA
  • 19 hours ago

Responsible for all matters of employment including recruiting, training, development, promotion, discipline and termination....

In Person

Traffic Manager

  • City of Burlington, VT
  • Ontario, CA
  • 3 days ago
  • Ontario, CA
  • 3 days ago

General Purpose This position is responsible for providing overall management of projects, programs, finances and work crews in the Traffic Group and the Signals Group. Union Affiliation:...

In Person

Camp Boat Captain - Summer 2026

  • The Irvine Ranch Outdoor Education Center
  • Newport Beach, CA
  • 14 days ago
  • Newport Beach, CA
  • 14 days ago

Pontoon Boat, 23 ft Striper Sea Swirl Sport Fisher Overview of the Position Boat Captains with a Master License will be driving vessels around the harbor for a variety of classes throughout the year...

In Person

Port Captain - Alcatraz Cruises

  • Hornblower
  • San Francisco, CA
  • 24 days ago
  • San Francisco, CA
  • 24 days ago

Coast Guard Inland Masters (100 ton) or equivalent and valid medical certificateFCC Marine Radio licenseTWICPossess and maintain a current California Driver's license and satisfactory driving record.Two...

In Person

Boat Captain

  • Saronic
  • San Diego, CA
  • 28 days ago
  • San Diego, CA
  • 28 days ago

Support logistics, maintenance, and troubleshooting of vessels and onboard systems. Act as the on-water safety lead during test operations. Qualifications: Valid U.S....

In Person

Captain (NorCal)

  • Saltchuk
  • Oakland, CA
  • 60+ days ago
  • Oakland, CA
  • 60+ days ago

Explore transportation and logistics industry job opportunities from Hawaii to Alaska, and Washington State to throughout the Caribbean. Visit saltchukjobboard.com today!...

In Person

Transit Supervisor

  • City of Torrance
  • Torrance, CA
  • 90+ days ago
  • Torrance, CA
  • 90+ days ago

The Position is currently recruiting for Transit S upervisors to lead and coach a team of bus operators and dispatchers working in a fast- paced environment with shifting priorities....

In Person

Master Captain of Towing Vessels

  • Dutra Group
  • San Rafael, CA
  • 90+ days ago
  • San Rafael, CA
  • 90+ days ago

Master Captain of Towing Vessels EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER/VETERANS/DISABLED This position requires a valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential with a minimum Master of 200GT upon Inland waters with Master...

In Person

Demographic Data for California

Moving to California? Find some basic demographic data about California below.


Local
National
39,536,271
996,598

Captain Online Courses and Training Opportunities

iHireTransportation curates thousands of courses in order to recommend the best ones to help further your career. If you register for a course using the links on our site, we may receive a small commission.
Shackleton's Captain
In 1914, Sir Ernest Shackleton's Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition headed for the South Pole and ended in disaster. Shackleton's Captain Frank Worsley was the driving force behind the survival...
Coaching Skills: 05. The Captain
High performing workers, known as captains, take ownership, influence peers, and operate as extensions of leadership-but they still need purposeful coaching that respects their autonomy. Learn how...
Becoming Xtraordinary - "The Magician (Steven Frayne) and The Captain (Kate Richardson-Walsh)"
World-famous Magician Steven Frayne (aka Dynamo) and Olympic gold medallist hockey captain Kate Richardson-Walsh share insights on success. Curiosity Stream is a leading streaming platform that...

Salary for Captain Jobs in California

Estimated salary range based on data from US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and iHireTransportation research efforts.

Licensing / Certification

Required or preferred licenses and certifications for Captain positions.



Highest Education Level

Captains in California offer the following education background
High School or GED
36.9%
Vocational Degree or Certification
21.3%
Bachelor's Degree
19.1%
Associate's Degree
12.8%
Master's Degree
7.8%
Some College
2.1%



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