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Boat Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

The Nashville Tour Company

Boat Driver

Nashville, TN · On-site

$13/hr

This role involves, however not limited to, operating a double-decker pontoon of our fleet ... State of Tennessee boating license, previous boat operating experience preferred, excellent ...

The Nashville Tour Company

Boat Driver

Nashville, TN · On-site

This role involves, however not limited to, operating a double-decker pontoon of our fleet ... State of Tennessee boating license, previous boat operating experience preferred, excellent ...

Excel Boat Company

CNC Router Operator

Union City, TN · On-site

Dental insurance Excel Boat Company is seeking a CNC Router Operator for its Union City, TN, plant. Our boats are built tough, and our fit and finish are first-class. Our specialty is bay, bass ...

Southern Devall

4A Captain

Memphis, TN · On-site

All pilothouse personnel must maintain a valid FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operators Permit or higher-class license. Work schedule: While on the boat, pilothouse personnel stand watch for 12 hours ...

Southern Devall Towing Co

4C Pilot

Memphis, TN · On-site

All pilothouse personnel must maintain a valid FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operators Permit or higher-class license. WORK SCHEDULE: While on the boat, pilothouse personnel stand watch for 12 hours ...

Southern Devall Towing Co

4A Captain

Memphis, TN · On-site

All pilothouse personnel must maintain a valid FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operators Permit or higher-class license. WORK SCHEDULE: While on the boat, pilothouse personnel stand watch for 12 hours ...

Southern Devall Towing Co

Captain / Pilot

Memphis, TN · On-site

Pilothouse personnel must make certain that the boat, tow, and crew are operated in strict compliance with any and all company policies. They shall monitor the crew to the extent necessary to be ...

Mastercraft Boat Company LLC

MC - Laminator

Vonore, TN · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Apply sheets of fiberglass and liquid resin to mold of boat and smooth out with brushes and rollers. Duties (Essential): * Reports to work on time for designated shift. * Adheres to company safety ...

Watco

Friction Crane Operator - Memphis, TN

Memphis, TN · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

... boat pilots with docking and launch, climbing ladders, opening lids, and attaching cables Complete all general labor duties assigned around the terminal including general maintenance and upkeep ...

Watco

Friction Crane Operator - Memphis, TN

Memphis, TN · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

... boat pilots with docking and launch, climbing ladders, opening lids, and attaching cables Complete all general labor duties assigned around the terminal including general maintenance and upkeep ...

Brunswick

Quality Inspector - Assembly

Vonore, TN · On-site

$21.42 - $24.50/hr

Verifies that the boat meets or exceeds the stated performance specifications. * Ensures all ... operating instructions, documented safety management systems, and health and safety requirements ...

Lund Boats

Quality Inspector - Assembly

Vonore, TN · On-site

$21.42 - $24.50/hr

Verifies that the boat meets or exceeds the stated performance specifications. * Ensures all ... operating instructions, documented safety management systems, and health and safety requirements ...

Brunswick Corporation

Holecutter

Vonore, TN · On-site

$20.90 - $23.65/hr

The Holecutter is responsible for drilling and cutting holes in boat hulls, decks, and small parts. This role involves using various tools and equipment to ensure precise and clean cuts, adhering to ...

Brunswick Corporation

Holecutter

Vonore, TN · On-site

$20.50 - $23.18/hr

The Holecutter is responsible for drilling and cutting holes in boat hulls, decks, and small parts. This role involves using various tools and equipment to ensure precise and clean cuts, adhering to ...

HCB Yachts

PATCH

Madisonville, TN · On-site

$12.50 - $15.25/hr

... operating activities into freshwater with a transformational bass boat portfolio. The ongoing venture centered on leveraging sophisticated yacht engineering and technology with consummate fishing ...

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Boat Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$18

$26

How much do boat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat operator in Tennessee is $18.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.59 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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The most popular types of Boat Operator jobs in Tennessee are:

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

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

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

Boat Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boat Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,808 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Boat Driver

Nashville, TN • On-site

The Nashville Tour Company
See more jobs at The Nashville Tour Companyexternal

$13/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Schedule:
Full-time, specific hours will vary, however weekends are required
Overview:
Nashville Toons is seeking a self-motivated and diligent boat driver to join our team! This role involves, however not limited to, operating a double-decker pontoon of our fleet, entertaining guests onboard for the duration of their excursion, maintaining a fun and clean onboard environment, overseeing guest safety, monitoring vessel fuel and operations.
Qualifications: State of Tennessee boating license, previous boat operating experience preferred, excellent customer service, able to work in fast-paced environment, reliable.

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