ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Dry Dock Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Oracle

Senior Marine Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$119K - $163K/yr

Support and coordinate dry dock activities, inspections, and repairs * Ensure compliance with IMO ... Continually learn about new programming languages, operating system updates, and other information ...

Oracle

Senior Marine Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$119K - $163K/yr

Support and coordinate dry dock activities, inspections, and repairs * Ensure compliance with IMO ... Continually learn about new programming languages, operating system updates, and other information ...

Mars

Senior Marine Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$119K - $163K/yr

Support and coordinate dry dock activities, inspections, and repairs * Ensure compliance with IMO ... Continually learn about new programming languages, operating system updates, and other information ...

Oracle

Senior Marine Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$119K - $163K/yr

Support and coordinate dry dock activities, inspections, and repairs * Ensure compliance with IMO ... Continually learn about new programming languages, operating system updates, and other information ...

Elite Workforce

Marine Shipyard Foreman

Houma, LA · On-site

Experience operating and coordinating dry-dock activities. * Thorough knowledge of shipyard equipment and facility operations. * Skilled Outside Machinist with experience in installation, maintenance ...

The Vision Companies

Senior Marine Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$119K - $163K/yr

Support and coordinate dry dock activities, inspections, and repairs * Ensure compliance with IMO ... Continually learn about new programming languages, operating system updates, and other information ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsTravel JobsMaritime JobsDock Worker JobsDry Dock Operator Jobs

Dry Dock Operator information

See salary details

$5

$18

$25

How much do dry dock operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for dry dock operator in the United States is $18.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dry dock operator?

Dry Dock Operators are skilled professionals who oversee and manage the operation of dry docks, which are specialized docks where ships and boats are taken out of the water for maintenance, repairs, or construction. They are responsible for ensuring vessels are safely docked and undocked, monitoring dock equipment, and coordinating with ship crews and repair teams. Their role is crucial for the safe handling of vessels and maintaining the dry dock facility. Dry Dock Operators must have technical knowledge of marine equipment and safety procedures, as well as strong organizational skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dry dock operator?

To thrive as a Dry Dock Operator, you need a solid understanding of maritime operations, mechanical systems, and safety protocols, often supported by relevant technical training or maritime certifications. Familiarity with dry dock machinery, hydraulic systems, and computerized control systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for ensuring smooth coordination and safe vessel handling. These competencies are vital to maintain operational efficiency, prevent accidents, and ensure the safe maintenance and repair of vessels in the dry dock environment.

What are some common challenges faced by dry dock operators during vessel maintenance projects?

Dry Dock Operators often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple teams to ensure safety and efficiency, managing tight project timelines, and handling unexpected technical issues like equipment malfunctions or weather delays. The role requires strong attention to detail to prevent accidents during flooding or draining of the dock, as well as clear communication with engineers, ship crews, and maintenance staff. Adaptability and problem-solving skills are essential to successfully navigate these day-to-day complexities and maintain a smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Dry Dock Operator vs Marine Technician?

AspectDry Dock OperatorMarine Technician
CertificationsOSHA safety training, possibly maritime certificationsMarine certifications, such as STCW or marine mechanic licenses
Work EnvironmentShipyards, dry docks, maritime facilitiesShip engines, hulls, and onboard systems in marine settings
Industry UsageMaritime, shipping, ship repairMarine maintenance, repair, and technical services

While both roles operate within maritime environments, Dry Dock Operators focus on the safe handling and operation of equipment in dry dock settings, whereas Marine Technicians perform maintenance and repairs on ships' systems. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the maritime industry.

What are popular job titles related to Dry Dock Operator jobs?

For Dry Dock Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Dry Dock Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,472 per year, or $18 per hour.

Graving Dock Shipwright

San Diego, CA • On-site

Epsilon Systems Solutions
Space Research Administration • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Epsilon Systems Solutionsexternal

$26.26 - $32.53/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Participate in reviews of docking plans and vessel schematics related to keel blocks and bilge blocks.

  • Operate, maintain, repair, and support the building, disassembly, and removal of docking blocks and various graving dock machinery and systems.

  • Perform machinery operational checks, preventive maintenance, and document maintenance and repair activities.

Job description

Epsilon Systems Solutions, Inc. is seeking a full time Graving Dock Shipwright in San Diego, CA.
Summary: The position, requiring minimal supervision will provide skilled Shipwright support for Graving Dock operations. This role demands expertise in preparing drydocks, assisting with safe docking and undocking procedures, as well as operating and maintaining graving dock machinery and systems. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in ship drydocking operations along with strong mechanical and technical skills.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Participate in reviews of docking plans and vessel schematics as related to keel blocks and bilge blocks.
  • Utilize standard mechanic's tools, ship fitting equipment and tools, wood shaping equipment and tools, portable machine tools, fixtures, and various gauges in the maintenance and repair of SWRMC dry docks.
  • Support the building, pre-docking arrangement/alignment, disassembly and removal of docking blocks as required for all docking operations within SWRMC dry docks.
  • Operate, maintain, repair, remove, and install a variety of graving dock mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic equipment and system components, including but not limited to valves, piping, marine centrifugal pumps (both horizontal and vertical types), piston pumps, and associated capstans, winches, windlasses, and trolleys.
  • Monitor mechanical systems on a routine basis for problems or abnormalities, when identified notify supervision, analyze causes, suggest possible solutions, performing corrective action as authorized.
  • Perform machinery operational checks prior, and subsequent to dock operations as required.
  • Perform machinery operational checks subsequent to equipment repairs, changeouts or extended downtime.
  • Perform preventive maintenance equipment checks as required, reporting deficiencies to supervision.
  • Provide thorough maintenance and repair reporting, documentation, and parts inventory.
  • Strict compliance with all safety procedures and PPE requirements, to include Lockout-Tag-out procedures as required for work being performed.

Required Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Hold current, or be eligible to obtain and maintain a DOD Security Clearance
  • Minimum of 5 years drydock shipwright experience.
  • Knowledge of Lockout Tag-out procedures.
  • Proficient in researching, reading, and following technical manuals, blueprints, drawings, parts manuals, schematics, assembly instructions, and troubleshooting guides. Contact equipment manufacturers to obtain additional information regarding equipment operation, troubleshooting, and repair, when required.
  • Ability to make recommendations using sound judgment while complying with policies, procedures and appropriate applicable technical guidance.
  • Familiar with ship construction, drydock procedures, and marine materials.
  • Strong understanding of workplace safety in a drydock environment.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate clearly, accurately and effectively across a wide range of govt, active-duty military and industry personnel.
  • Effective oral and written communication skills.
  • Be available to perform overtime duties as required for pre-docking, docking, duration of ship docking periods and undocking.

Additional Requirements (Post-Hire):
  • Must obtain Tag-out/Lock-out qualification within 30 days
  • Must obtain PQS 301 Craftsmen qualification within 90 days.
  • Must obtain Forklift Operator license within 90 days.
  • Must obtain Dock Rover qualification within 6 months
  • Must obtain the following qualifications within 12 months:
    • Graving Dock Sluice Gate Operator
    • Graving Dock Caisson Operator
    • Graving Dock Pump Room Operator
    • Control Room Operator
    • Trolley/Winch Operator

Pay Range:
The pay range for this role is $26.26 To $32.53 Hourly. This is a reasonable estimate for this role. Individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.
ADA Notations:
  • Requires walking, reaching, sitting and concentration in the presence of occasional noise
  • Ability to move in narrow and restricted passageways, up/down steep and narrow ladders or stairways.
  • Requires the ability to lift, carry and move objects up to 50 lbs. in weight.
  • Noise conditions range from very quiet to loud.

Epsilon Systems Solutions, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.

Apply