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Boat Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Car Guys Inc.

Boat and RV Mechanic

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$55K - $100K/yr

CarGuys Inc - America's #1 Boat, RV & Powersports Recruiting Firm Tired of slow shops, low hours, and dealers who don't pay what you're worth? We place skilled Boat & RV Technicians with the busiest ...

U.S. Coast Guard

Boat Builder Repairer

Portsmouth, VA · On-site +1

$31.59 - $36.86/hr

Builds boat chocks, keel blocks, and bilge blocks used for supporting small boats when they are docked for repairs and occasionally performs related carpentry duties * Performs carpentry duties in ...

U.S. Coast Guard

Boat Builder Repairer

Portsmouth, VA · On-site +1

$31.59 - $36.86/hr

Builds boat chocks, keel blocks, and bilge blocks used for supporting small boats when they are docked for repairs and occasionally performs related carpentry duties * Performs carpentry duties in ...

QED Systems Inc

Boat Shop Helper

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Candidate will assist Boat Shop Technicians with repairing, and troubleshooting varies watercraft. Must be able to complete basic tasks with minimal supervision and a willingness to learn skills to ...

Reston Association

Boat Rental Attendant

Reston, VA · On-site

$13.50 - $15/hr

Boat Rental Attendants are the concierge of the boat rental operations at Lake Anne Plaza and the Lake Audubon Boat Ramp, providing friendly assistance with the rental process, maintaining a clean ...

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All JobsBoat JobsBoat Jobs in Virginia

Boat information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$25

$48

How much do boat jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat in Virginia is $25.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $30.29 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 Are Boating Jobs?

There are many jobs in the boating industry. Some positions are onboard a boat while others are available in boat sales, building, or even repair. Jobs on boats, whether small watercraft or large ships, are plentiful and can include everything from delivering mail to becoming the captain of a vessel. There are many types of captains you could be depending on the vessel, although duties and responsibilities differ for each. Other options in the boating industry include sailing instructor, towboat operator, water taxi captain, tour boat operator, and even yacht delivery driver.

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 different jobs on a boat?

Jobs on a boat include roles such as captain, deckhand, engineer, steward, and chef. These positions require specific skills, certifications, and knowledge of safety procedures, navigation, and maintenance. Crew members often work in shifts and must adapt to the maritime environment.

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 boat jobs make the most money?

In the boating industry, captain or master mariner positions typically earn the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. Other high-paying roles include marine engineers and vessel managers, especially those with specialized skills, certifications, and experience operating large or commercial vessels.

How do I get into working on a boat?

To work on a boat, you typically need relevant skills such as seamanship, navigation, or maintenance, and often require certifications like a boating safety or maritime license. Gaining experience through entry-level positions, apprenticeships, or volunteering can help you build qualifications and understanding of the work environment.

How can I make money with a boat?

A boat operator can make money by offering services such as boat tours, fishing charters, or transportation. Skills in navigation, customer service, and proper licensing or certifications are often required, and scheduling can vary based on demand and seasonality.
More about Boat jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Boat jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Boat jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Boat jobs in Virginia? For Boat jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Boat jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Boat jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Boat jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Boat job openings:
Boat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boat job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,072 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Boat captain

JOLIE LUXURY PARTY N CRUISES LLC

Virginia Beach, VA

$25 - $50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Looking for a boat captain with an USCG  OUPV/ six pack or a master license for 25 tons or more. The duties of the captain include; driving the boat through the inland waters of Virginia beach, broad bay, Cheasapeake bay ect... You will be working at you own pace, and most employees set their own schedule 75% of the time.

Company Description

This is a family owned and operated business with myself as the activities director and my husband as the skipper/captain. I have been hosting and party planning for over 20 years and I'm excited to bring the party to cruising in the water. My husband is a 9 Year US Navy Veteran.
Jolie Luxury Party N Cruise is a unique experience in the waters of the bays of Virginia Beach. We have a 18 foot and a 26 foot Pontoon Party Boats that will take guests out on a tour of various channels and inlets where there will be much to see. We will stop the boat in a shallow area where they can enjoy water toys such as lounge tubes, water guns, and a water slide. While guests are enjoying the water we will be grilling up a fresh lunch and providing refreshments.