Portland,ME,USA Full-time River Pilot | Hiring

American Cruise Lines is a distinguished cruise line company specializing in river and inland waterway cruises across the United States. Known for operating a growing fleet of modern, U.S. flag ships, the company offers guests a unique travel experience along iconic rivers such as the Mississippi, Ohio, and Cumberland. These vessels are thoughtfully designed to combine the highest safety standards with five-star service, catering to groups of 100 to 200 passengers. American Cruise Lines prides itself on showcasing the beauty and history of America through its curated itineraries and exceptional onboard hospitality. The River Pilot, also referred to as the Navigation Mate (Nav Mate), plays a crucial senior leadership role aboard these vessels. Serving as watch officers, Nav Mates are entrusted with the vital responsibility of overseeing safe vessel operation, ensuring strict compliance with both company policies and maritime regulatory standards. As experienced mariners, these professionals bring a wealth of piloting expertise, particularly in navigating the complex and often challenging coastal and river waterways characteristic of the United States inland waterway system. This role demands not only technical proficiency but also exceptional judgment and risk assessment capabilities, as Nav Mates continuously monitor and evaluate potential hazards far in advance. American Cruise Lines values these individuals as prudent decision-makers who plan weeks, days, and hours ahead to maintain the highest safety levels for the vessel, passengers, and crew. Furthermore, Nav Mates serve as exemplary leaders and role models, fostering a secure, clean, and welcoming environment onboard that reflects the company’s commitment to service excellence. The position offers favorable employment conditions, including competitive pay, comfortable private staterooms, and chef-prepared meals, underscoring the company’s dedication to the well-being and satisfaction of its maritime professionals. American Cruise Lines also invests heavily in the professional growth of its personnel by providing access to their state-of-the-art bridge simulator, which enables rigorous recurrent training focused on advanced piloting and critical decision-making skills. This robust training program ensures that Nav Mates remain at the forefront of industry standards and cutting-edge navigation techniques. Operating on a seasonal schedule primarily between March and November, the role typically follows a work rotation of six weeks on duty followed by three weeks off, or an equitable four weeks on and four weeks off pattern. This flexibility supports work-life balance while maintaining operational excellence throughout the busy cruising season. Overall, American Cruise Lines seeks highly qualified professionals who not only possess the technical skills but also embody the company’s core values of optimism, commitment, patriotism, and merit. Those who thrive in this role will have the opportunity to share America’s story aboard some of the finest American ships, contributing to an unforgettable passenger experience while advancing their maritime careers in a supportive and dynamic environment.

• Valid U.S. Coast Guard Master’s license with minimum 100 tons
• Current Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
• Minimum 2 years of piloting experience on coastal and river waterways
• Strong communication and leadership capabilities
• Ability to pass pre-employment and ongoing drug testing
• Availability to work the seasonal schedule from March through November