Captain

Location: WA, OR, CA, ID | Job Type: Full-Time, Part-Time, Seasonal | Industry: Marine Construction & Dredging Operations

About the Position

HME is seeking an experienced Captain to operate and manage tugboats, workboats, and marine vessels supporting marine construction, dredging, and pile driving operations. The Captain is responsible for safe vessel operations, crew leadership, regulatory compliance, and navigation to ensure efficient project execution in ports, rivers, and offshore construction sites.

This role requires strong leadership, expert-level navigation skills, and compliance with USCG, USACE, and maritime safety regulations. The Captain will work closely with marine superintendents, project managers, and deck crews to support vessel movements, barge positioning, and operational logistics.

Captains with an NCCCO license for lattice boom cranes and friction rig experience are highly preferred for this position.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate inland tugboats, workboats, and push boats for marine construction and dredging operations.
• Navigate vessels safely in rivers and harbors, ensuring compliance with maritime regulations.
• Direct deckhands, engineers, and operators in mooring, towing, pushing, and barge positioning.
• Conduct pre-voyage inspections, safety drills, and vessel maintenance checks.
• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local maritime laws, including USCG and USACE standards.
• Collaborate with marine project teams to execute efficient vessel logistics and dredging operations.
• Ensure vessels adhere to company safety procedures and emergency response protocols.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of experience operating tugboats, workboats, or dredge support vessels.
• U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with Master or Mate endorsement (100-Ton or higher preferred).
• Experience in marine construction support, dredging logistics, or barge towing.
• Proficiency in vessel navigation systems, maritime communications, and operational logistics.
• Ability to work in challenging weather and marine conditions while maintaining operational safety.

Preferred Certifications & Licenses

• USCG Master’s License (100 Ton or higher) (Required for certain vessel operations).
• TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) Card (Required for access to secure maritime facilities).
• First Aid/CPR Certification.
• Radar Observer Unlimited Certification.
• Marine Radio Operator’s Permit (MROP).
• USCG Towing Endorsement (Highly preferred for barge operations).

Relevant Industry Training & Experience

• Experience working on federally contracted marine projects for USACE, NAVFAC, or port authorities.
• Knowledge of marine construction operations including pile driving, dredging logistics, and heavy lift operations.
• Proficiency in marine navigation software (e.g., Nautical Charts, AIS Tracking Systems).

Veteran Applicants Encouraged

Veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.

Industry-Leading Standards & Compliance

This role ensures adherence to the highest industry standards, including:

• USCG Navigation and Vessel Safety Standards – Ensuring compliance with maritime safety, vessel stability, and operational procedures.
• Maritime Safety Compliance – Maintaining a safe work environment aboard vessels and workboats.
• USACE Marine Project Standards – Ensuring compliance with federal contract specifications and navigational protocols.
• Environmental Compliance in Dredging & Marine Operations – Ensuring compliance with federal, state, local, and client requirements.

Technical & Tool Proficiency

• Vessel Navigation Software – Experience with GPS, ECDIS, AIS tracking, and radar systems.
• Microsoft Office Suite – For logbook documentation and compliance reporting.
• Company Software & Communication Tools – Mobile workforce management apps.