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Boat Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Mormac Marine Group Inc

Captain

Sault Sainte Marie, MI · On-site

CAPTAIN About Us Original Soo Locks Boat Tours is a family-oriented boat tour company that was ... FCC Marine Radio Operators Permit (MROP) * First Aid/CPR certification * Successful completion of ...

Stantec

Commercial Dive Supervisor

Okemos, MI · On-site

Act as a tender/rack operator/boat operator as part of the dive rotation; * Assist with bathymetric and other acoustic imaging surveys; * Assist with sediment sampling; * Conduct freshwater mussel ...

Brightwork Marine LLC

Marine Technician

Muskegon, MI · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

COMPANY INFORMATION Brightwork Marine LLC is locally owned and operated, based in Muskegon, Michigan. We specialize in providing repair and maintenance solutions for all boat and watercraft needs. We ...

Brightwork Marine LLC

Marine Technician

Muskegon, MI · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

COMPANY INFORMATION Brightwork Marine LLC is locally owned and operated, based in Muskegon, Michigan. We specialize in providing repair and maintenance solutions for all boat and watercraft needs. We ...

Safe Harbor Marinas

Marine Technician (Mechanic)

Douglas, MI · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Safe Harbor Marinas, LLC (SHM) is the largest owner and operator of marinas in the world. As a fast ... Using diagnostic equipment, test and repair boat engines, hulls, propellers, rigging, masts, sails ...

SAFE HARBOR MARINAS

Marine Technician (Mechanic)

Douglas, MI · On-site

$20.50 - $24.25/hr

Description Safe Harbor Marinas, LLC (SHM) is the largest owner and operator of marinas in the ... Using diagnostic equipment, test and repair boat engines, hulls, propellers, rigging, masts, sails ...

Safe Harbor Marinas

Technician (Mechanic)

La Salle, MI · On-site

$23.25 - $31.50/hr

Safe Harbor Marinas, LLC (SHM) is the largest owner and operator of marinas in the world. As a fast ... Using diagnostic equipment, test and repair boat engines, hulls, propellers, rigging, masts, sails ...

SkipperBud's

General Manager

Waterford, MI

... boat, suggesting optional equipment, etc. to customers and prospects. * Manage deals, adhering to ... Analyze operating and administrative procedures for all departments in an effort to assess and ...

SkipperBud's

General Manager

Fenton, MI

... boat, suggesting optional equipment, etc. to customers and prospects. * Manage deals, adhering to ... Analyze operating and administrative procedures for all departments in an effort to assess and ...

SkipperBud's

General Manager

Grand Haven, MI

... boat, suggesting optional equipment, etc. to customers and prospects. * Manage deals, adhering to ... Analyze operating and administrative procedures for all departments in an effort to assess and ...

SkipperBud's

General Manager

Waterford, MI · On-site

... boat, suggesting optional equipment, etc. to customers and prospects. * Manage deals, adhering to ... Analyze operating and administrative procedures for all departments in an effort to assess and ...

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All JobsBoat Operator JobsBoat Operator Jobs in Michigan

Boat Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$9

$17

$25

How much do boat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat operator in Michigan is $17.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $20.72 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.
More about Boat Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Boat Operator jobs in Michigan? For Boat Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Boat Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Boat Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Boat Operator jobs in MI? For Boat Operator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Boat Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boat Operator job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,268 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
Boat Mover / Marine Service Support (CDL Class A Required)

Boat Mover / Marine Service Support (CDL Class A Required)

Irish Boat Shop

Harbor Springs, MI

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Boat Mover / Marine Service Support (CDL Class A Required)

Location: Harbor Springs
Status: Full-Time, Year-Round

Irish Boat Shop is a family-owned, full-service marina serving Northern Michigan’s boating community. We are looking for a CDL Class A driver who enjoys working around boats and being part of a hands-on service team.

This role includes transporting boats between Irish Boat Shop locations, marinas, and customer sites as needed. Boat transport is seasonal. Most of the year this position supports retail marine service operations, performing hands-on work that contributes directly to customer service projects.

Irish Boat Shop operates year-round and does not have seasonal layoffs.

Primary Responsibilities

• Primarily responsible for transporting boats between storage facilities and the waterfront, with occasional transport to other locations as needed
• Operate trucks and trailers in compliance with CDL and DOT regulations
• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections and secure loads properly
• Assist with retail marine service work such as washing, waxing, detailing, bottom painting, and surface preparation
• Support yard and service operations as needed

Qualifications

• Valid CDL Class A license with a clean driving record
• Experience operating trucks and trailers preferred
• Ability to safely maneuver oversized loads
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physical work
• Ability to lift, bend, kneel, climb, and stand for extended periods
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation is competitive and based on experience. Irish Boat Shop offers health insurance, retirement plan, paid time off, and year-round stable employment with no seasonal layoffs.

This position is subject to DOT drug and alcohol testing, including participation in a random testing program.

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