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Boat Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Kalitta Charters

Learjet 45 Captain

Ypsilanti, MI · On-site

FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit Experience & Skills: * 2,000+ hours total time * 1,000+ Multi-engine time * PIC Typed in LR-JET/LR-45 preferred Work Environment & Culture Skills:

West Marine

Sales Associate (Seasonal)

Harrison Township, MI · On-site

$13 - $15.50/hr

At West Marine, our mission is to serve Boaters with a focus on "Know More, Get More, Boat More ... operating procedures (SOPs) for the position. • Be available to work a flexible schedule ...

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Boat Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$9

$17

$25

How much do boat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 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 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

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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,268 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Great Lakes Master (Captain)

Grand River Navigation Company

Traverse City, MI • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Description
Job Description
Description:

Come Sail with us on the Great Lakes!


If you are looking to become part of our team that strongly values safety, efficient operations, a family-oriented environment, come sail with us! Grand River Navigation has one of the best leave and rotation systems on the Great Lakes. With unprecedented teamwork and some of the most talented colleagues in the industry we can guarantee you will enjoy a career with us!


Grand River Navigation Company is the U.S. operating subsidiary of Mainstay Maritime. We are one of the largest marine transportation service providers operating on the Great Lakes today with a combined fleet of 15 bulk freight vessels that provide service to over 50 customers across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway.


Competitive total rewards package including income, paid travel to/from the vessel, healthcare benefits, retirement savings plans and work/life balance with best-in-class rotation. We have many education opportunities and upgrade bonuses to support career growth at a pace that is right for each individual.


Great Lakes Ship Captain (Master) - Key Duties & Responsibilities:


  • Maintain ultimate command and accountability for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel.
  • Ensure the seaworthiness, safety, security, and operational readiness of the vessel, equipment, cargo, and crew.
  • Safely navigate and maneuver the vessel throughout Great Lakes waterways, ports, locks, and restricted channels.
  • Serve as the Company's representative and primary authority onboard, overseeing all vessel operations and decision-making.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements, company policies, environmental standards, and maritime industry best practices.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop crew members while fostering a professional, safety-focused, and positive work environment.
  • Direct emergency response activities and make critical operational decisions to protect personnel, cargo, the vessel, and the environment.
  • Oversee voyage planning, risk assessment, cargo operations, vessel security, and safe work practices.
  • Promote a culture of teamwork, accountability, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.


Why Choose Grand River Navigation?

  • As an employee you are part of the Mainstay Maritime family where Teamwork and safety are a core value
  • Highly competitive wages and benefits including medical, dental, vision, company paid long-term and short-term disability and life insurance, 401K with company match.
  • Excellent safety record
Requirements:
  • Valid passport and allowed entry into the Canada
  • Valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) issued by the USCG
  • Endorsement as Master of Self-Propelled Vessels of Unlimited Tonnage upon the Great Lakes and Inland Waters (Minimum)
  • First Class Pilot of Vessels of Unlimited Tonnage upon the Great Lakes between Duluth, Gary, Buffalo and Port Weller to Cape Vincent
  • Certification as Ship Security Officer
  • Transportation Worker Identification (TWIC) issued by TSA
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills as well as the ability to multi-task

Grand River Navigation is an Equal Opportunity Employer – All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality or sex, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We also comply with Family Medical Leave Act and Employee Rights Employee Polygraph Protection Act.


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