1

Boat Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We are currently hiring a seasonal Boat Captain holding a valid Captain's license. Position is paid hourly plus tips. (June-October) Position has the potential to turn into year-round. Captain is ...

Small Boat Operator II DoD Secret Clearance Required Location: San Clemente Island, CA Position Description: The Small Boat Operator II operates, maintains repairs, and troubleshoots Watercraft Group ...

Boat Washer

San Diego, CA

$18 - $22.75/hr

In boat detailer jobs, you have various duties, including cleaning the boat in detail in preparation for its return to the customer. Additionally, the boat washer is a valuable yard hand and will be ...

Boat Washer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

In boat detailer jobs, you have various duties, including cleaning the boat in detail in preparation for its return to the customer. Additionally, the boat washer is a valuable yard hand and will be ...

Boat Attendant

Mineral, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Boat Attendant Snow Mountain, LLC is located in the spectacular Lassen Volcanic National Park in California. As one of the country's oldest national parks, Lassen is consumed with gorgeous hiking ...

Boat Attendant Snow Mountain, LLC is located in the spectacular Lassen Volcanic National Park in California. As one of the country's oldest national parks, Lassen is consumed with gorgeous hiking ...

Boat Manager

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$70K - $84K/yr

The Boat Manager supervises the Boat & ATV Department within a BPS or Free-Standing Store location to include sales, finance, service, parts, merchandise presentation, inventory control, pricing ...

$18.50/hr

Our Contra Loma location is looking for boat inspectors to help. Come join our Team ! Ensure that the Company's goals of protecting the natural environment are met by thoroughly inspecting all ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Boat information

See California salary details

$5

$25

$48

How much do boat jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat in California is $25.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $30.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by boat captains when managing a crew on longer voyages?

Boat captains often encounter challenges related to maintaining clear communication and teamwork among crew members, especially during extended trips. Managing fatigue, ensuring everyone follows safety protocols, and resolving interpersonal conflicts are important aspects of the role. Captains must be skilled at delegating responsibilities, monitoring morale, and adapting plans in response to changing weather or operational conditions. Proactive leadership and regular check-ins with the crew are key to a smooth and safe voyage.

What are boat jobs?

Boat jobs refer to a wide range of occupations that involve working on or with boats. These jobs can include positions such as deckhands, captains, engineers, fishing crew, tour guides, and maintenance workers. People in boat jobs may work on commercial vessels, fishing boats, ferries, yachts, or tour boats. The work environment can vary from open water to harbors and ports, and often requires specialized training or certifications. Boat jobs can offer unique opportunities for travel, teamwork, and hands-on experience.

What is the difference between Boat vs Marine Technician?

AspectBoatMarine Technician
CertificationsBoating licenses, safety certificationsMarine certifications, engine repair licenses
Work EnvironmentMarinas, docks, watercraftShipyards, repair shops, on-site at vessels
Industry UsageRecreational and small commercial boatsCommercial ships, yachts, larger vessels

While both roles involve working with watercraft, a Boat typically refers to the vessel itself, often associated with recreational use. A Marine Technician specializes in repairing and maintaining marine engines and systems, often working on larger vessels or in repair facilities. The two roles overlap in industry and certifications but differ in daily tasks and work environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a boat captain, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Boat Captain, you need strong navigational skills, maritime safety knowledge, and the appropriate captain’s license such as a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, radar, marine radios, and compliance with maritime regulations are essential technical requirements. Leadership, calm decision-making, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing crew and ensuring passenger safety. These skills and qualifications are crucial to safely and efficiently operating vessels while ensuring compliance and a positive onboard experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Boat jobs in California? The most popular types of Boat jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Boat jobs in California? For Boat jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Boat jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Boat jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Boat jobs? Cities in California with the most Boat job openings:
Infographic showing various Boat job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,830 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Boat Captain

Tonopalo Residence Club

Tahoe Vista, CA • On-site

$55/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Our luxury property private residence club features a private 300-foot pier. At normal lake levels, the pier provides ample room for mooring boats to pick up and drop off passengers for a cruise. Owners and guests may charter the Formula, a yacht-rated powerboat, to cruise the lake. Our 12 mooring buoys allow owners and guests to keep their boat on site that may also request a captain.


We are currently hiring a seasonal Boat Captain holding a valid Captain’s license.
Position is paid hourly plus tips. (June-October) Position has the potential to turn into year-round.

Captain is responsible for all prep work required for a cruise, cleaning, gas, covering, etc.


Captain Attributes:

  • Hard-working
  • Reliable
  • Can Do” Attitude
  • Shares a passion for hospitality
  • Polished appearance


our friendly, energetic and professional personality will be the welcoming face of the club at the pier. We are looking for a new team member to deliver our owners and guests to and from the club with class and style on the adventure they desire on Lake Tahoe. If you enjoy providing above and beyond excellent service and meeting new people, we invite you to become part of our professional, fun team.


Our operating theme is "Casual Elegance", reflecting the mountain/beachfront environment, and is characterized by the highest standards for service. We operate in a professional but not overly formal manner, responsive to individual owners' preferences because we make the effort to get to know our owners well.