Foss Captain - Northern California - Richmond, CA

Foss; Richmond (CA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

401k with match

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Employee Assistance Program

Travel stipends

Job summary

Foss Maritime seeks a California Deck Officer Captain in Northern California. The role supports safe, reliable maritime services with a rotating schedule: one week on, one week off, in a guaranteed captain position. Travel to Foss regions is paid; stationed in Richmond, CA area.

The Captain will oversee vessel operations, drills, maintenance, compliance with SMS, and leadership of the crew. Strong navigation, propulsion, and regulatory knowledge are required; candidates must hold USCG licenses

Qualifications

• Valid USCG MMD or MMC required.
• TWIC required.
• National Master 500/1600 OC or NC license, STCW, radar endorsement, MMC and TWIC.
• At least 5 years as Master on Ship Assist/Escort vessels; offshore towing preferred.
• Experience in SF Bay area; Long Beach region preferred.
• Strong vessel handling and propulsion knowledge.
• Ability to supervise vessel operations independently.

Responsibilities

• Plan safe, efficient operation of vessel and crew.
• Ensure compliance with SMS policies and procedures.
• Provide information and directions for safety and quality service.
• Oversee drills, training, maintenance, and inspections.

Skills

USCG Master License

TWIC

Master 500/1600 OC

5+ years on Ship Assist

ASD propulsion knowledge

SF Bay experience

Vessel handling knowledge

Independent worker

Job description

Req. Number 003-4516

Posting Date Oct 14, 2026

Address 1316 Canal Blvd., Richmond, California 94804, United States

About Foss Maritime

Foss Maritime is one of the most recognized and respected maritime brands in the U.S., combining a rich legacy with a forward-thinking approach to industry innovation. While deeply rooted in tradition, Foss is evolving at a fast pace, continuously setting new standards for operational excellence and sustainability.

With operations spanning all U.S. coasts and global transportation projects, Foss is a leader in harbor and terminal towage, tug and barge transportation, and offshore energy solutions, including traditional energy and offshore wind projects. Our primary operations are on the U.S. West Coast, Alaska, and Hawaii.

As part of the Saltchuk family of companies, Foss is a values-driven organization that takes pride in its exceptional team, commitment to safety, and dedication to customer success. With a culture built on integrity, innovation, and collaboration, Foss Maritime remains a trusted leader in the maritime industry.

About the Role / Job Schedule / Needs

As a Captain, you'll be an essential part of our mission to provide safe and reliable maritime services. You'll work alongside a dedicated team that values professionalism, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Foss Maritime is seeking an experienced California Deck Officer. This position is a full-time, 14 days guaranteed per calendar month, Captain position located in Foss Northern California. This position has a set schedule of 1 week on and 1 week off and is not assigned to any particular vessel. This is a guaranteed position with the ability to work in different Foss regions and vessels (located in California). As a Guaranteed Captain, when working outside of your assigned home region, all travel expenses will be paid by Foss.

What You'll Do

The primary responsibility and authority for the execution of all vessel assignments including, but not limited to, planning the most efficient and safe operation of the vessel and its crew, implementing the operating plan in a cost-effective manner, and evaluating and reporting the results. It is the responsibility of all Masters to ensure compliance with policies and procedures, requirements and documentation in the Foss Safety Management System Manual (SMS). Masters have the specific obligation to ensure that all personnel assigned to vessels are provided with information, instructions and directions necessary for meeting the program objectives of safety, environmental protection and quality service through knowledgeable and competent execution of assigned tasks.

• Ensure safe navigation of the vessel at all times.
• Oversee vessel drills, training, maintenance, and inspections to ensure compliance with company, safety, and maritime standards.
• Ensure prompt and accurate reporting of all equipment failures, illnesses, incidents, accidents and damages.
• Hold crew accountable for their adherence to maritime law, company policies and procedures, and their individual performance/productivity.

What We're Looking For

• Valid US Coast Guard Merchant Mariners Document (MMD) or Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC).
• Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Must possess and maintain a National Master 500/1600 OC or NC license, National Master of Towing, STCW, Radar Endorsement, MMC, and TWIC.
• 5 years experience as a Master on Ship Assist and Escort vessels. Offshore towing experience preferred.
• Familiarization with multiple types of propulsion: knowledge of ASD vessel required and experience driving Conventional vessels desired.
• Work experience required in the San Francisco Bay. Experience in Long Beach regions preferred.
• Thorough knowledge of vessel handling and navigational skills commensurate with operating assignments.
• Working knowledge of propulsion, auxiliary and deck machinery.
• Must be able to economically supervise all aspects of the operation of the vessel, its cargo and crew.
• Must be able to work independently and without direct supervision.
• Ability to withstand exposure to all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, heat, wind, heavy seas, etc.)
• Able to work weekends, holidays, and at night.
• Must possess strong written and oral communication skills

What We Offer

Once fully checked off, pay for this position will be $21.52 per hour of straight time, $32.28 of overtime, and $43.04 premium rates. Deck Officers are paid on 24 hour basis for a full day and 12 hours for a half day at various ST, OT, and Premium rates. For further questions, please reach out to the recruiting coordinator [e-mail].

• The benefit program includes medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family.
• Life insurance equal to two times annual base salary.
• Accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Long term disability insurance.
• 401k program with a 4% match, vested immediately.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Business travel assistance program.
• Other voluntary benefits are available for purchase via payroll deduction at group rates.
• All other benefits as required by law

Drug Free Workplace

Foss Maritime Company LLC is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Foss Maritime Company LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

Compensation 19.1800