As a Shore Captain in Water Transport, you will lead and manage maritime transportation operations at Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) facilities and naval bases across Canada. You are responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of water transport services, including the movement of personnel, equipment, and supplies by vessel. This role combines maritime expertise with people management and operational planning to support CAF readiness and defence objectives.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include supervising maritime crews, ensuring vessel maintenance and safety standards, coordinating scheduling and logistics, managing budgets, and liaising with other departments to meet transportation requirements. You will apply your knowledge of marine operations, navigation, and maritime regulations to resolve operational challenges and implement improvements. You may also contribute to training programs for marine personnel and participate in emergency response protocols.
You will work in a dynamic military environment at naval bases, harbours, and coastal facilities. The role requires strong leadership, decision-making under pressure, and a commitment to safety and excellence. You may work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, depending on operational needs and vessel schedules.
Key Responsibilities
Perform marine duties supporting federal transportation operations, Ensure compliance with transportation safety regulations, Monitor and report on operational performance, Coordinate logistics and scheduling
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To succeed as a Shore Captain, you typically need a combination of maritime experience and formal credentials. Most candidates hold a Canadian maritime license or captain's certificate issued by Transport Canada, demonstrating competency in navigation, vessel operation, and maritime safety. A high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum educational requirement, though many candidates pursue post-secondary education in marine transportation, nautical science, or a related field.
The Department of National Defence provides professional development opportunities, including management and leadership training specific to military operations and personnel supervision. You may also pursue specialized certifications in areas such as dangerous goods handling, advanced firefighting, or naval operations. Ongoing training ensures you remain current with CAF policies, maritime regulations, and emerging best practices in water transport management.
Entry Plans
There are several pathways to join the DND civilian workforce as a Shore Captain. Most positions are filled through public service staffing competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank and DND recruitment channels. Candidates typically need to demonstrate relevant maritime experience, valid Transport Canada marine certifications, and supervisory experience.
Lateral movement is common for experienced mariners already working within the DND or other federal departments. Some candidates transition from CAF military service with maritime backgrounds into the civilian Shore Captain role. Educational pathways exist for individuals with post-secondary marine transportation credentials and the willingness to develop additional management competencies. The hiring timeline varies by facility and operational need, so monitoring regular job postings is recommended.
Part-Time Options
Part-time work as a Shore Captain is limited due to the operational and supervisory nature of the role. Most positions are full-time permanent assignments, as the role requires consistent leadership and decision-making authority over maritime operations. However, flexible scheduling may be negotiated within operational constraints, particularly regarding shift patterns and duty rotations at your assigned facility.
Remote work is not typical for this position, as the role requires on-site presence at naval bases and harbour facilities to oversee vessel operations, supervise crews, and respond to operational requirements. Some administrative tasks may be completed remotely, but the majority of work occurs at the waterfront and operational command centers. Discuss specific flexibility options during the recruitment process, as accommodations may be available depending on your assigned location and operational priorities.
