River Pilot

About the role

American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S.-flag fleet. Our modern vessels accommodate 100 to 200 guests and operate on inland and coastal waterways across the East Coast, Alaska, Pacific Northwest, Great Lakes, Columbia & Snake Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. Nav Mates are senior shipboard watch officers responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to company and regulatory standards, and representing the company as professional leaders. They enjoy comfortable onboard accommodations, chef‑prepared meals, and access to our own bridge simulator for rigorous recurrent training and development.

Responsibilities

• Ensure safety and security of passengers, crew, and vessel.
• Operate the vessel in compliance with company and regulatory standards.
• Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring.
• Conduct daily inspections of all vessel spaces.
• Maintain logs, reports, and administrative records.
• Support hotel and culinary teams in delivering five‑star guest service.

Qualifications

• U.S. Coast Guard Master’s license: minimum 100 GRT with Near Coastal endorsement; 1,600 GRT or greater preferred.
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Coastal and river waterway experience: minimum 2 years (desired 5 years) with Z‑drive experience.
• Excellent communication and team‑building skills.
• Pre‑employment drug test and ongoing random testing.
• Ability to perform essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.

Essential Functions

• Live and work in an environment subject to constant ship motion (surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch, yaw).
• Work up to 12 hours per day.
• Assist in onboard emergencies, including climbing ladders and passing through a 20″ diameter hatch.
• Stand for the entire shift.
• Frequent lifting of up to 20 lb (occasionally up to 50 lb).
• Frequent bending, squatting, and reaching.
• Live and work on board for extended periods.
• Frequent use of stairs.

Work Schedule

Typical March through November cruise season: 6 weeks on / 3 weeks off or 4 weeks on / 4 weeks off. Additional work periods may be possible during winter months aboard the few vessels operating or repositioning year‑round. This is a full‑time, exempt position.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive daily rate.
• Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match.
• Access to advanced simulator‑based training.
• Travel, room and board, uniforms, and training expenses covered by American Cruise Lines.