River Navigation Pilot

American Cruise Lines

Join American Cruise Lines as a River Navigation Pilot, ensuring safety and compliance while navigating beautiful U.S. waterways.

Last checked on June 6, 2026. We may earn a commission when you click through.

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If you love navigating scenic routes and have solid maritime experience, this could be your next step.

✓ Work in stunning locations like Alaska and the Great Lakes ✓ Health, dental, and vision benefits ✓ 401k plan included

River Navigation Pilot

American Cruise Lines

Updated 3 days ago
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Nashville Full-Time

If you love navigating scenic routes and have solid maritime experience, this could be your next step.

About this role

Join American Cruise Lines as a River Navigation Pilot, where you can put your extensive piloting experience to work within our U.S.-flag fleet. We cruise through some of the most beautiful inland and coastal waterways, including but not limited to the East Coast, Alaska, and the Great Lakes.

As a River Navigation Pilot, you will take on a critical role as a senior shipboard watch officer. Your responsibilities will encompass:

Ensuring the utmost safety and security of passengers, crew, and the vessel.Operating the vessel in compliance with all relevant company and regulatory standards.Executing precise maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring maneuvers.Conducting daily inspections of all vessel spaces.Maintaining accurate logs, reports, and administrative records.Supporting hotel and culinary teams to provide five-star guest service.Our work schedule typically follows a March through November cruise season, offering a rotation of 6 weeks on with 3 weeks off or 4 weeks on with 4 weeks off. Additional work periods may be available during winter months aboard vessels operating year-round.

Qualifications:

U.S. Coast Guard Master's license (minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater).Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).Minimum 2 years of experience on coastal and river waterways (5 years preferred, with Z-drive experience).Outstanding communication and team-building skills.Must pass a pre-employment drug test and participate in ongoing random testing.Ability to perform essential job functions with or without accommodation.Essential Functions:

Adaptability to ship motions caused by environmental factors, such as wind and currents.Ability to work approximately 12 hours per day and respond effectively in onboard emergencies.Capability to climb ladders, navigate hatches, and stand for extended periods.Physical ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.Willingness to live and work onboard for extended durations.Compensation and Benefits:

We offer a competitive daily rate, including access to health, dental, vision, and a 401(k) plan with matching contributions. Enhance your skills through our advanced simulator-based training while enjoying covered expenses for travel, accommodations, uniforms, and training.

At American Cruise Lines, we value our employees and remain committed to cultivating a diverse work environment. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, treating all applicants and employees with respect, regardless of their background.

About the Company

American Cruise Lines operates a U.S.-flag fleet, offering cruises on scenic inland and coastal waterways across the country.

Key Highlights

  • Senior shipboard watch officer position
  • Focus on safety and security of passengers and crew
  • Experience with precise maneuvering and docking
  • Opportunity to work in various beautiful locations
  • Competitive daily rate

💡 Honest Take: This position is ideal for experienced pilots but might not suit those seeking a more predictable work schedule.

Pros

  • Work in stunning locations like Alaska and the Great Lakes
  • Health, dental, and vision benefits
  • 401k plan included
  • Flexible shift types
  • Strong safety focus

Cons

  • Onsite work only, no remote options
  • Moderate physical demands
  • Requires U.S. Coast Guard Master's license
  • Responsibilities can be high-pressure
  • May involve irregular hours

Best For: Ideal for those with extensive maritime experience, particularly in river navigation.

Watch Out: Be prepared for a demanding environment with significant responsibilities for safety and navigation.

Apply for this position

You'll be redirected to jobs.stevenagefc.com

Expert Review

waterways as a River Navigation Pilot with American Cruise Lines of adventure and responsibility. The role emphasizes safety, requiring pilots to be vigilant in ensuring the security of both passengers and crew. This about steering; it's about managing complex docking and anchoring maneuvers in varying conditions.

The company operates in some of the most scenic areas, including Alaska and the Great Lakes, making this position appealing for those who love nature and exploration. Compensation is described as a competitive daily rate, although exact figures aren't detailed in the listing.

Candidates should be aware that the job demands a U.S. Coast Guard Master's license of at least 100 tons, with a preference for those with 1600 tons or more. This means the role is not for novices; it requires significant experience and expertise in river navigation.

Working onsite means you’ll be fully immersed in the role, which can be a pro or con depending on your work-life balance preference. If you thrive in high-pressure situations and enjoy hands-on responsibilities, this position could be a great fit for you. Check out the full details on the official job listing for more insights.

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