Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Ship Captain is the commanding officer of a vessel, responsible for its safe and efficient operation, navigation, crew management, and compliance with international and local laws. They oversee all aspects of a voyage from planning to execution and are ultimately responsible for the vessel and its passengers or cargo.
Education: Postsecondary nondegree award
Years in related career: Less than 5 years
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 1.7% (below average)
Annual job openings: 4,300
Direct AI exposure: 7% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 35% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $92K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $47K per year | $64K per year | $92K per year | $127K per year | $171K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $42K above the national average. | ||||
Ship Captains work on a variety of vessels, including cargo ships, passenger ships, and fishing vessels. The environment is challenging, requiring the captain to be at sea for extended periods. Conditions can vary significantly based on the weather, sea state, and the type of ship they are commanding.
The role of a Ship Captain is both prestigious and demanding. It requires a deep understanding of maritime navigation, ship mechanics, and international maritime law. Captains must be skilled in decision-making, often under challenging and stressful conditions. They are responsible for plotting the safest and most efficient course, considering factors like weather, tides, and potential hazards.
Leadership is a critical aspect of the captain's role. They are responsible for the welfare, safety, and performance of the crew. Effective communication, team management, and conflict resolution are essential skills. Captains must also maintain the vessel's compliance with environmental regulations and international maritime laws, often requiring extensive knowledge and attention to detail.
The career of a Ship Captain is marked by significant responsibility, requiring unwavering commitment to safety and excellence. Captains often have a profound connection to the sea and take pride in their ability to navigate the world's oceans successfully.
Becoming a Ship Captain typically requires extensive maritime training and years of experience at sea, progressing through licensed officer roles. While some captains hold a bachelor's degree from a maritime academy or university in fields such as marine transportation, navigation, or marine engineering, a degree is not mandatory. All captains must obtain the appropriate master or captain's license issued by a recognized maritime authority, which requires approved training, accumulated sea time, and passing rigorous examinations.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
