Boat Captain Apprentice (65571

Boat Captain Apprentice

Live on the Chesapeake. Learn to run boats. Build a career.

The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (CBMM) is hiring a Boat Captain Apprentice—a paid, hands-on role where you'll learn to operate boats, build sea time, and work toward your U.S. Coast Guard captain's license. This is a full-time opportunity to gain real experience on the water while working with a mission-driven team.

This isn't a classroom program, you'll be working with real vessels, crews, and passengers from day one.

CBMM is dedicated to preserving and exploring the history, environment, and culture of the Chesapeake Bay and making it accessible to all. Our apprenticeship programs combine education, preservation, and real-world maritime experience, offering a unique pathway into maritime careers.

What You'll Do

• Operate and handle boats (power and sail) under the guidance of licensed captains
• Support cruises, public programs, private charters, and special events
• Hands-on experience in navigation, weather awareness, and trip planning
• Assist with vessel maintenance (fueling, cleaning, systems checks)
• Build sea time toward U.S. Coast Guard licensing

Pay & Benefits

• $16/hour (full-time 40 hours/week, non-exempt)
• Free/shared housing near the waterfront
• Structured 2-year path toward USCG captain's license
• Daily mentorship from experienced captains

Where This Can Take You

This is just the starting point:

• Completion of the program prepares you to pursue a 100-ton U.S. Coast Guard Captain's License
• Entry-level captains often earn $25+/hour, with strong growth potential
• Long-term maritime careers offer expanded opportunities across charter, education, and commercial operations

Who This Role Is Ideal For

• You're passionate about being on the water and want to build a career around it
• You prefer hands-on work over a traditional desk job
• You are reliable, adaptable, and eager to learn
• You're comfortable working weekends and holidays during peak season

No extensive experience required—this role is designed to build it while you earn

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• Valid driver's license
• Comfortable on boats; basic marine familiarity preferred
• Team-oriented and customer-focused
• Willing to work weekends, evenings, and holidays
• Ability to obtain required USCG credentials (TWIC, MMC, medical)
• Must pass pre-employment and random drug testing

Physical Requirements

• Lift up to 80 lbs
• Work outdoors in varied weather conditions
• Safely work aboard moving vessels