Boat Captain Apprentice (65571)

Job DetailsJob Location: St. Michaels, MD 21663Position Type: Full TimeSalary Range: $16.00 - $16.00 HourlyLive 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   QualificationsWho 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