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Boat Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Park Ranger

Rufus, OR · On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

Incumbent is required to have and maintain a Corps of Engineers boat operator's license within 1 year of appointment. * Ability to work nights and/or weekends depending on the needs of the project to ...

Park Ranger

Rufus, OR · On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

Incumbent is required to have and maintain a Corps of Engineers boat operator's license within 1 year of appointment. * Ability to work nights and/or weekends depending on the needs of the project to ...

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 ...

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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Showing results 1-20

Boat Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$11

$21

$31

How much do boat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat operator in Oregon is $21.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $25.14 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 Oregon?

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

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Boat Operator jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Boat Operator job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Boat Operator job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 15% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,208 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Maintenance Worker (Motor Vehicle Operator)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Lowell, OR • On-site

$24.40/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 538 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

About the Position: As a Maintenance Worker (MVO) you will be responsible for the maintenance, repairs and construction of various project and public use facilities, wildlife habitat maintenance and restoration. In addition, you will be responsible for general maintenance to grounds and-buildings.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.
Minimum Qualification at the WG-06: Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a Maintenance Worker (Motor Vehicle Operator) without more than normal supervision. Must have the ability to perform common maintenance and construction tasks such as: operate common hand tools and measuring devices of the carpentry, or painting trades to perform simple maintenance tasks. In addition, have the ability to operate motor vehicle, transport equipment/material to job site in preparation of work and clean-up after completion of the work assignment. Must have the ability to work under close supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure they are properly performed. Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
Minimum Qualification at the WG-07: Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a Maintenance Worker (Motor Vehicle Operator) ~ without more than normal supervision. Must have the ability to perform common Maintenance Worker tasks such as: the use and operation of common hand and power tools, equipment, and/or measuring devices of the carpentry, plumbing, and/or painting trades. Must have the ability to detect simple deficiencies and perform simple preventive maintenance tasks and have the ability to work under normal supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure are properly performed. Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
Minimum Qualification at the WG-08: Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a Maintenance Worker (Motor Vehicle Operator) ~ without more than normal supervision. Must have the ability to complete painting, carpentry, and plumbing repairs; independently construct, maintain and repair various public use facilities; must have the ability to perform carpentry work, paint operating equipment and machinery, buildings, etc. Must have the ability to maintain grounds and buildings including mowing, trimming shrubs, and perform minor maintenance on buildings. Must have the ability to work under close supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure they are properly performed. - Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
  • Physical Effort: Work involves considerable standing, stooping, bending, working on ladders or platforms which requires overhead or stretched awkward positions. Lifts and carries items that weigh 50 to 75 pounds, and occasionally up to 100 pounds. Incumbent is required to operate a motor vehicle on a regular and recurring basis to accomplish field work. Must be able to obtain a boat operator's license.
  • Working Conditions: Some work is done inside a shop where worker is subject to cuts from power or hand tools. Approximately 70-75% of time work is performed outside and in close proximity to turbulent water and operating machinery. Subject to slipping on slopes, noise, cold and damp conditions, gas and paint fumes, chemicals, falling from ladders, cuts, strains, sprains, etc. Incumbent may occasionally be exposed to raw sewage. There is danger to fingers, hands and possible loss of hearing. Work must be performed with the use of safety shoes, hard hat, gloves, rain gear, hearing protection devices, respirator mask, chain saw chaps, and life jacket when operating, working or riding in a boat. Incumbent is required to operate a motor vehicle oil a regular and recurring basis to get to and from field work sites.
Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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