Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 35,390 captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels, and they earn a median of $85,540/year. The range runs from $46K to $164K. Mississippi pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels start around $46K. The gap between that and the median ($86K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $164K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Mississippi | $113K | 530 |
| Texas | $106K | 4,090 |
| Washington | $105K | 1,600 |
| New York | $104K | 2,080 |
| Louisiana | $103K | 6,310 |
| Iowa | $100K | 100 |
| Maryland | $95K | 460 |
| West Virginia | $95K | 110 |
| Tennessee | $92K | 840 |
| New Jersey | $92K | 880 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels make?▼
The median captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels salary in the United States is $85,540 per year ($41/hour). Entry-level positions start around $46,260, while experienced professionals earn up to $164,230.
What education do you need to become a captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels.
What are the highest paying states for captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels?▼
The highest paying states for captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels are Mississippi ($112,670), Texas ($105,790), Washington ($104,560), New York ($103,510), Louisiana ($103,430). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.