1

Boat Operator Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

... operating season. Southeast Alaska is a wild, rich, and dynamic region of Alaska. Standing on a ... The Boat Company's (TBC) aim is to provide a more intimate experience in this incredible place. The ...

... operating season. Southeast Alaska is a wild, rich, and dynamic region of Alaska. Standing on a ... The Boat Companys (TBC) aim is to provide a more intimate experience in this incredible place. The ...

... operating season. Southeast Alaska is a wild, rich, and dynamic region of Alaska. Standing on a ... The Boat Company's (TBC) aim is to provide a more intimate experience in this incredible place. The ...

Must be proficient in operating small boats in river conditions. Preventative Boat Maintenance Skills: Ability to perform basic engine troubleshooting, cleaning, and minor repairs. Basic Carpentry ...

Must be proficient in operating small boats in river conditions. Preventative Boat Maintenance Skills: Ability to perform basic engine troubleshooting, cleaning, and minor repairs. Basic Carpentry ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Boat Operator information

See Alaska salary details

$11

$22

$31

How much do boat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 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 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 boat job pays the most?

The highest-paying boat jobs are often captain or master mariner positions, which require extensive experience and certifications such as a USCG license. These roles can earn six-figure salaries, especially on large commercial vessels or luxury yachts. Specialized skills, such as navigation, safety, and vessel management, are essential for these high-paying roles.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Boat operators typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive, medical, legal, or specialized technical roles. Some highly experienced or executive-level positions in related industries may reach this level, but they are rare for standard boat operation jobs. Advanced certifications, extensive experience, or management responsibilities can influence earning potential in maritime or related fields.

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 is a boat operator called?

A boat operator is commonly called a captain, skipper, or vessel operator. These roles involve navigating and controlling boats or ships, often requiring relevant certifications or licenses depending on the vessel size and type.

Can I work on a yacht with no experience?

Boat operators typically need relevant certifications such as a captain's license and practical experience to ensure safety and compliance. While some entry-level positions may accept minimal experience, most employers prefer candidates with boating knowledge, navigation skills, and safety training.

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 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Boat Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Boat Operator, you need strong navigational skills, knowledge of maritime laws, and typically a valid boating license or certification. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, marine radios, and safety equipment is essential. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making, and communication skills help ensure safe and efficient vessel operation. These skills are critical for protecting passengers, cargo, and the vessel itself while adhering to maritime regulations.
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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,048 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Diver

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description
The Salvage Diver is responsible for carrying out dive operations as per instructions of Dive Supervisor/Salvage Master to support wreck removal and emergency response works. The Salvage Diver is a project-based position and requires domestic and international travel to project sites.
Position Responsibilities:
  • Underwater inspection to ascertain, quantify, document and report the condition of the vessel / marine structure
  • Carry out under water cutting, drilling, burning and welding operations
  • Fabrication of patches - installation of patches
  • Carry out Blow down operations to restore buoyancy
  • Underwater Fuel Removal using hot tap or other mechanism
  • Water jetting to remove mud
  • Black water diving
  • Able to handle heavy rigging and install shackles, chains, slings underwater
  • Ability to carry out Penetration dives
  • Carry out standby duties
  • Other duties as assigned

Requirements
Required Certifications:
• Current ADCI / IMCA recognized certification, DCBC preferred
• Valid Dive Physical within 12 months (identifying diver is physically fit to dive)
• First Aid, CPR w/ O2 Provider/ Emergency Oxygen Certification
• Dive School Diploma
• Experience in the Commercial Diving and in the Salvage Industry
• HAZWOPER 40 Hour with 8-hour annual refresher
• Driver's License
• Passport, Global mobility is strongly preferred, and in most cases required.
• Active TWIC or ability to obtain (USA employees)
• Good working knowledge of all dive gear and equipment (including that related to the dive station for set-up, maintaining, and break down).
• Familiarity and ability to operate all underwater hydraulic and pneumatic tools.
• Must be able to perform at an intermediate level UW burning/venting for burning, hot tapping/fuel removal in zero visibility and with high currents.
• Has a good working knowledge of all aspects of diving and salvage operations
• Rigging: must have an intermediate knowledge of various types of rigging and ability to handle and install heavy rigging underwater e.g. Shackles, chains, slings etc.
• Intermediate Supervisory, leadership, communication skills with the ability to articulate the points and instructions.
• Proficient in all aspects of a Commercial, able to run deck operations with ease
• Good knowledge of all dive administrative aspects.
• All Prospective Employees Must Submit to A Drug Test and Background Check (USA employees)
Preferred Skills Certification:
• OSHA 10 Hour
• Dive Medical Technician Certificate
• Mixed Gas Diver Certification
• Topside welding and fabrication
• Rigging and Crane Operations
• Equipment Operator includes Forklift
• Mechanic background in diesel, hydraulics, pumps, etc.
• Underwater Burning - experience from topside scrapping operations and topside welding
• Demolition - explosive installation
• BOSIET
• Small boat operator
• Hazard communication
• Confined space entry
• NDT certification
• MMC with STCW Training
• Diamond wire cutting, demolition experience preferred
ADA Requirements:
? Sit or Stand
? Climb (stairs/ladders) or balance
? See
? Walk
? Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
? Taste/Smell
? Use Hands/Fingers to handle or feel
? Talk/hear
? Carry weight, lift 50 lbs.
? Exposure to work; working inside and outside of vessels, above water and underwater.
Travel Requirement:
Extensive travel is required and at times for months at a stretch depending upon the project duration. Ability to work out on remote or distant projects as needed for several months at a time. 24 hour and 7 day a week availability based upon project or emergency response needs.