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Boat Operator Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Bristol Wave Seafoods

Captain

Unalaska, AK · On-site

Net sales are calculated by accounting for certain operating costs such as bait, fuel, observer expenses, etc. 40% of net sales go to the officers and crew. All travel for officers is arranged and ...

Lower Kuskokwim School District

Laborer

Atmautluak, AK · On-site

$18.25 - $22.25/hr

Adventure is part of the job-traveling to our communities often involves flying from Anchorage and completing the journey by small plane, snowmobile, or boat. But more importantly, you will play a ...

Bristol Bay Fuels

Mate

Kenai, AK · On-site

Directs activities of crew engaged in cleaning and painting of boat. * Stands watch during ... Experience in operating vessel in Alaska is preferred * Near Coastal routes preferred

Bristol Bay Fuels

Master/Captain

Kenai, AK · On-site

... boat crew such as operating engines, steering and maintaining and repairing the ship's equipment. Essential Duties & Job Functions: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to ...

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All JobsBoat Operator JobsBoat Operator Jobs in Alaska

Boat Operator information

See Alaska salary details

$11

$22

$31

How much do boat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 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.

More about Boat Operator jobs

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:

Boat Operator jobs near you
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.

Captain

Bristol Wave Seafoods

Unalaska, AK • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

The captain is a USCG licensed officer who serves as the backup to the vessel captain. Captains must be able to safely navigate the vessel, supervise the handling of gear, maintain safe practices, and work with the Bristol Wave operations team to continually refine and improve the business plan.

Working in the Bering Sea:

Working at sea is physically and mentally challenging and requires long hours in remote locations, often several days’ travel from the nearest port. Our deck and processing crews work 16-hour shifts, 7 days a week. Most trips average 4-5 weeks in duration, but depending on the fishing season, catch rates, weather, vessel size and other factors, trips can be as short as 10-12 days or as long as 60+ days. Crew members generally work multiple trips (2 months or longer) in a single rotation.

Compensation, Travel & Expenses:

Payroll is crew share percentage. Crew share calculations are based on the net adjusted sales. Net sales are calculated by accounting for certain operating costs such as bait, fuel, observer expenses, etc. 40% of net sales go to the officers and crew.

All travel for officers is arranged and paid for by the company, including flights, hotels, and meals while traveling.

Requirements

· USCG Licensing required: 500 GT near coastal uninspected fishing master's license (or greater).

· Ability to navigate effectively and familiarity with all related regulations.

· Ability to supervise handling of all gear.

· Ability to maintain safe practices aboard the ship and conduct safety drills.

· Drill Instructor certification required.

· HACCP certification required.

· Proper allocation of crew shares based on performance.

· Maintaining of discipline in accordance with company policy.

· Administering of required random and post-accident drug screenings – specimen collector certification required.

· Proper handling of paperwork and communications with central office.

· Willingness to work with operations and human resources management to constantly refine and improve the business plan.

· Must pass pre-employment drug screening (commercial fishing falls under federal authority; we cannot hire anyone who tests positive for THC).

· Pre-employment background check required (past convictions will not necessarily prevent employment).

· Must be legally authorized to work in the United States. BWS participates in eVerify.

Benefits

Vessel officers are eligible for healthcare benefits, subsidized by the company at 75% for both employees and dependents, including medical coverage, dental coverage, vision coverage, voluntary life insurance, and a Health Savings Account (HSA) with a discretionary company contribution. Vessel officers are eligible to enroll on the first day of the month after a one-month waiting period.