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Boat Operator Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

The Boat Officer 2 may serve as captain of State of Alaska vessels 28 to 42 feet overall. OUR ... Coast Guard Operator's License: A license formally called "Operator of Uninspected Passenger ...

Diver

AK · On-site

... Small boat operator • Hazard communication • Confined space entry • NDT certification • MMC with STCW Training • Diamond wire cutting, demolition experience preferred ADA Requirements:

Enlisted • Active Overview Special Warfare Combat Crewmen are elite boat operators who insert and extract SEALs and other special operations forces, conduct high risk coastal and riverine missions ...

Enlisted • Active Overview Special Warfare Combat Crewmen are elite boat operators who insert and extract SEALs and other special operations forces, conduct high risk coastal and riverine missions ...

Enlisted • Active Overview Special Warfare Combat Crewmen are elite boat operators who insert and extract SEALs and other special operations forces, conduct high risk coastal and riverine missions ...

Enlisted • Active Overview Special Warfare Combat Crewmen are elite boat operators who insert and extract SEALs and other special operations forces, conduct high risk coastal and riverine missions ...

Enlisted • Active Overview Special Warfare Combat Crewmen are elite boat operators who insert and extract SEALs and other special operations forces, conduct high risk coastal and riverine missions ...

Enlisted • Active Overview Special Warfare Combat Crewmen are elite boat operators who insert and extract SEALs and other special operations forces, conduct high risk coastal and riverine missions ...

Enlisted • Active Overview Special Warfare Combat Crewmen are elite boat operators who insert and extract SEALs and other special operations forces, conduct high risk coastal and riverine missions ...

Enlisted • Active Overview Special Warfare Combat Crewmen are elite boat operators who insert and extract SEALs and other special operations forces, conduct high risk coastal and riverine missions ...

Enlisted • Active Overview Special Warfare Combat Crewmen are elite boat operators who insert and extract SEALs and other special operations forces, conduct high risk coastal and riverine missions ...

Provides assistance and information to the maritime industry and commercial and pleasure boat operators on all aspects of port and harbors activities, rules and regulations. Participates in the ...

Enlisted • Active Overview Special Warfare Combat Crewmen are elite boat operators who insert and extract SEALs and other special operations forces, conduct high risk coastal and riverine missions ...

Enlisted • Active Overview Special Warfare Combat Crewmen are elite boat operators who insert and extract SEALs and other special operations forces, conduct high risk coastal and riverine missions ...

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Boat Operator information

See Alaska salary details

$11

$22

$31

How much do boat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat operator in Alaska is $22.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $25.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a boat operator do?

The responsibilities of a boat operator include using knowledge of winds, weather, water depths, and currents to pilot a motorboat, private watercraft (PWC), or other watercraft safely. In this career, you load and transport various pieces of equipment, supplies, or passengers and maintain communication with boat crew, other ships, and harbor patrol. Other duties may be to navigate the vessel in and out of harbors and docks and fender, moor, and anchor the vessel at the destination. You consult maps, charts, weather reports, and navigation equipment, give directions to crew members, and update logs required by the USCG and management. You are also expected to maintain safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, boat fenders, and pumps, as well as service motors and direct boat maintenance and cleaning.

What does a boat operator do?

A Boat Operator is responsible for navigating and operating boats or other watercraft safely and efficiently. Their duties often include steering the vessel, monitoring weather and water conditions, ensuring the safety of passengers and cargo, and performing routine maintenance checks. Boat Operators may work on different types of boats, such as ferries, fishing vessels, or tour boats, and must comply with maritime laws and safety regulations. They often need specialized training and licensing depending on the size and type of vessel they operate.

What are some common challenges faced by a boat operator on a daily basis?

Boat Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions, ensuring passenger safety, and maintaining strict adherence to navigational rules. They must remain vigilant for hazards like other vessels, submerged objects, or mechanical issues. Effective communication and teamwork with crew members are essential for smooth operations, especially during high-traffic periods or emergency situations. Developing strong problem-solving skills and staying calm under pressure are key aspects of succeeding in this role.

What is the difference between Boat Operator vs Marine Deckhand?

AspectBoat OperatorMarine Deckhand
CertificationsBoating safety, boat handling licensesSTCW certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentOn boats, marinas, docksOn ships, docks, offshore
Employer & IndustryMarinas, tour companies, fishing chartersCommercial shipping, cargo, cruise lines

While both roles involve working on boats, a Boat Operator primarily focuses on navigating and operating vessels, often in recreational or small commercial settings. A Marine Deckhand assists with vessel maintenance, cargo handling, and safety procedures, typically in larger, commercial maritime environments. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position based on their skills and certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Boat Operator jobs in Alaska?

For Boat Operator jobs in Alaska, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Boat Operator jobs in Alaska look for?

The top searched job categories for Boat Operator jobs in Alaska are:

What are popular job titles related to Boat Operator jobs in AK?

For Boat Operator jobs in AK, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Boat Operator job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,048 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

USCG Licensed Boat Captain/Naturalist Guide

Ouzinkie

Kodiak, AK • On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY

Boat Captain/Naturalist Guide will possess the minimum USCG rating of a 25 Ton Near Coastal OUPV License. Must also be currently certified in CPR and First Aid and be willing to go through a Drug and Alcohol Consortium Program. This person will be responsible for the safe operation of Lodge vessels and guests while leading lodge guests on water-based Nature/Wildlife excursions and provide for the safety of guests while in the field on land-based excursions within Katmai National Park on the Katmai Coast of the Alaska Peninsula as well as lodge property and surrounds.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Must have a thorough knowledge and understanding of the marine environment in which we operate taking into consideration tidal fluctuations and changes in weather.
  • Use of Navigational Charts and Chart Plotters, GPS, Sonar, VHF, Satellite Comms, and other Navigational tools.
  • Responsible for the overall quality of company tours as experienced by the customer, including:
    • Providing interesting, accurate and appropriate narration for the tours.
    • Ensuring that the boat departs and is returned to the dock on time unless latitude is approved by the General Manager.
    • Establishing quality interaction with guests regarding safety procedures, tour information, boat information and environmental data.
    • Ability to cross sell Katmai Wilderness products.
  • Must maintain and inspect lodge vessel daily to ensure safety, cleanliness, and that the vessel is mechanically sound.
  • Will provide clear and accurate interpretive knowledge of Park history, flora and fauna and Brown Bear behavioral facts while accompanying guests away from the lodge.
  • Assists with various camp duties as assigned, including but not limited to:
    • Cleaning/Crew Quarters Chores
    • Grounds keeping
    • Loading and unloading of aircraft
    • Buildings and boat maintenance
    • Operating other small lodge equipment
  • Must always maintain personnel hygiene and have a clean appearance to the public and other lodge staff.
  • Must always wear proper attire. Political statements, religious statements, crude language, or logos are not permitted.
  • Maintain regular and punctual attendance.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Must have a thorough knowledge and understanding of the marine environment in which we operate taking into consideration tidal fluctuations and changes in weather.
  • Must be proficient with the use of Navigational Charts, Chart Plotters, Satellite Comms., GPS, Sonar, VHF, and other Navigational tools.
  • Two (2) years or more service time on similar vessels.
  • Current USCG rating of a 25 Ton Near Coastal OUPV License.
  • Must be a minimum of 21 years old.
  • Certified in CPR and First Aid.
  • This position will be subject to random drug and alcohol screening as per enrollment in a Drug Consortium.
  • May need to pass a background check.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
  • Wilderness First Aid certification or higher
  • Masters USCG License
  • Alaska Guiding Experience; fishing or hunting included.
  • Yamaha outboard maintenance and other mechanical experience
  • Advanced knowledge or education in local or marine biology
WORK SCHEDULE

Temporary position will be required to work overtime hours to complete assignments and/or projects. May require flexible work schedule.

TRAVEL

Must make own travel arrangements to and from Kodiak, Alaska. A float plane to the lodge will be arranged from there. A travel stipend may be given to reimburse employees for seasonal travel.

DRIVING REQUIREMENTS

Must provide a copy of a current and valid USCG rating of a 25 Ton Near Coastal OUPV License for verification purposes.

EDUCATION

High school diploma or GED

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work environment is varied in its requirements with long periods of standing, kneeling, both cold and hot climates that are characteristic of remote lodge operations. Work can be performed in adverse conditions including inclement weather such as high humidity, heat, cold weather, high wind, rain, sun, and various local conditions. Most of the season is spent primarily off the grid, in a remote lodge operation.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • Must be able to see, hear and verbally communicate with regular frequency.
  • Must be able to walk and/or stand or hard surfaces for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to kneel, bend and twist at the waist with regular frequency.
  • Must be able to reach at, above and below shoulder height with regular frequency.
  • Must be able to push, pull, carry, and lift objects weighing up to 75 pounds with regular frequency.
  • Must be able to maintain balance and maneuver in crowded space with regular frequency.
  • Must possess sufficient fine and gross motor skills to operate equipment with regular frequency.
  • Employee must be able to work in varying conditions for long hours.

It is Ouzinkie Native Corporation and subsidiaries’ business philosophy and practice to provide reasonable accommodations, according to applicable state and federal laws, to all qualified individuals with physical or mental disabilities.

COMPLIANCE

We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color,religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, marital status, familial status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Preference will be given to Ouzinkie Shareholders, Descendants of Shareholders and Spouses of Shareholders in accordance with Title 43 U.S. Code 1626(g) and Title 42 U.S. Code 2000e - 2(i).

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