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Gmdss Radio Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Valid GMDSS General Radio Operator's certificate Behaviors As part of our commitment to fostering a high-performance culture, employees are expected to align their actions and decisions with the ...

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Valid GMDSS General Radio Operator's certificate Behaviors As part of our commitment to fostering a high-performance culture, employees are expected to align their actions and decisions with the ...

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Marine Electronics Technician

Slidell, LA ยท On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Valid FCC General License with Radar Endorsement & GMDSS Radio Operator Maintainer License is preferred. * Be physically fit. The work environment often involves carrying 20-50 lbs., climbing ladders ...

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Marine Electronics Technician

Slidell, LA ยท On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Valid FCC General License with Radar Endorsement & GMDSS Radio Operator Maintainer License is preferred. * Be physically fit. The work environment often involves carrying 20-50 lbs., climbing ladders ...

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Valid FCC General License with Radar Endorsement & GMDSS Radio Operator Maintainer License is preferred. * Be physically fit. The work environment often involves carrying 20-50 lbs., climbing ladders ...

Be Seen First

Valid FCC General License with Radar Endorsement & GMDSS Radio Operator Maintainer License is preferred. * Be physically fit. The work environment often involves carrying 20-50 lbs., climbing ladders ...

Be Seen First

Valid FCC General License with Radar Endorsement & GMDSS Radio Operator Maintainer License is preferred. * Be physically fit. The work environment often involves carrying 20-50 lbs., climbing ladders ...

Be Seen First

Valid FCC General License with Radar Endorsement & GMDSS Radio Operator Maintainer License is preferred. * Be physically fit. The work environment often involves carrying 20-50 lbs., climbing ladders ...

$89K - $120K/yr

FCC GMDSS Radio Operator/Maintainer License * Anschutz Navigation and Radar System Certifications * Tactical Radio and Satellite Communications Training * Electrical Wiring Installation and Repair ...

$89K - $120K/yr

FCC GMDSS Radio Operator/Maintainer License * Anschutz Navigation and Radar System Certifications * Tactical Radio and Satellite Communications Training * Electrical Wiring Installation and Repair ...

$89K - $120K/yr

FCC GMDSS Radio Operator/Maintainer License * Anschutz Navigation and Radar System Certifications * Tactical Radio and Satellite Communications Training * Electrical Wiring Installation and Repair ...

Dynamic Positioning Operator

Sugar Land, TX ยท On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

Function as vessel radio operator. Maintain proper GMDSS and Radio watch. * Support Sr. DPO in navigation and Watch Officer's duties during transit. * Know basic operational theory, calibration ...

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Gmdss Radio Operator information

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$12

$23

$39

How much do gmdss radio operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for gmdss radio operator in the United States is $23.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the job outlook for radio operators?

The job outlook for GMDSS radio operators is generally stable, with employment opportunities remaining steady due to ongoing demand for maritime safety and communication services. However, advancements in digital communication technology and automation may influence future job availability, emphasizing the importance of staying current with certifications and technical skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a GMDSS Radio Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a GMDSS Radio Operator, you need a strong understanding of maritime communication protocols, radio operation, and must hold a valid GMDSS General Operator Certificate. Familiarity with equipment such as VHF, MF/HF radios, satellite communications, and distress alerting systems is required. Attention to detail, quick decision-making, and clear communication are vital soft skills for responding to emergencies and coordinating with crew and authorities. These competencies ensure the safety of vessels at sea by enabling effective distress communication and compliance with international maritime regulations.

What is the minimum requirement of a GMDSS radio operator?

A GMDSS radio operator must typically hold a GMDSS Radio Operator's License or certification, which requires completing approved training and passing relevant examinations. Additionally, they should have basic knowledge of radio communication procedures, safety protocols, and operate maritime radio equipment in compliance with international regulations.

How much does a 0621 field radio operator make?

A GMDSS Radio Operator, including those with the 0621 rating, typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. Salaries can vary based on maritime or military sector, with additional pay for overtime and hazardous duty pay often applicable.

What is a GMDSS Radio Operator?

A GMDSS Radio Operator is a trained professional responsible for operating and maintaining the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) equipment on board ships. Their main duties include sending and receiving distress signals, managing routine and emergency communications, and ensuring the proper functioning of all radio and satellite communication systems as required by international maritime regulations. GMDSS Radio Operators play a crucial role in maritime safety, enabling effective communication and coordination during emergencies at sea. They must hold a valid GMDSS certificate, demonstrating their knowledge of procedures and equipment necessary for safe maritime operations.

What are some common challenges faced by GMDSS Radio Operators during maritime emergencies?

GMDSS Radio Operators often face high-pressure situations during maritime emergencies, such as distress calls, severe weather, or equipment malfunctions. They must remain calm while quickly assessing the situation, prioritizing communications, and ensuring accurate information is relayed to the appropriate authorities. Another challenge is maintaining familiarity with a variety of communication protocols and equipment, as different vessels may have different systems. Successful operators excel at multitasking and clear communication, which are critical for the safety of crew and vessel.

What is the difference between Gmdss Radio Operator vs Marine Radio Operator?

AspectGmdss Radio OperatorMarine Radio Operator
CertificationsGMDSS certification, Marine Radio Operator licenseMarine Radio Operator license, GMDSS certification
Work EnvironmentShipboard, maritime communication centersShipboard, maritime communication centers
Industry UsageMaritime safety, distress communicationMaritime communication, safety operations

The Gmdss Radio Operator and Marine Radio Operator roles share similar certifications and work environments, focusing on maritime communication and safety. The Gmdss Radio Operator specializes specifically in GMDSS systems for distress and safety communication, while the Marine Radio Operator covers broader radio communication duties. Both roles are essential in maritime safety and often overlap in industry usage, but GMDSS expertise is a key differentiator.

Do GMDSS radio operator's license?

Yes, GMDSS radio operators are required to hold a valid GMDSS radio operator's license or certification, which ensures they are qualified to operate maritime communication equipment according to international standards. Licensing requirements vary by country but generally involve completing approved training and passing examinations on radio procedures and safety protocols.
More about Gmdss Radio Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Gmdss Radio Operator jobs? The most popular types of Gmdss Radio Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Gmdss Radio Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Gmdss Radio Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Gmdss Radio Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,098 per year, or $23.6 per hour.
Radio Operator

Radio Operator

Valaris

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

The Radio Operator operates vessel communications equipment, answers phones, and carries out clerical duties such as filing and typing as directed.ย ย 

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

  • Receives and transmits messages between the vessel and shore bases, supply vessels, helicopters,ย and other stations by radio telephone.ย 

  • Operates all communication equipment in the radio room, and ensures it is well maintainedย and operational.ย 

  • Maintains a radio listening watch on marine and aeronautical emergency frequencies.ย 

  • Maintains records/logs of all radio communications to and from the vessel. Keeps records ofย telephone charges if possible.ย 

  • Ensures the maintenance of all electronic navigational aids where applicable.ย 

  • Tests the standby radio equipment and the radio equipment in the lifeboats on a weekly basis,ย including the testing of the radio room batteries.ย 

  • Advises the OIM/Master of any emergency situations within the vicinity of the vessel.ย 

  • Informs the Helicopter Landing Officer and Bridge of all helicopter traffic to the vessel.ย 

  • Establishes and maintains radio communications with helicopter traffic to and from the vessel.ย 

  • Advises pilots of landing clearances, meteorological conditions, etc., and records in theย helicopter movement log.ย 

  • Coordinates and controls the isolation of radio equipment during periods of radio silence.ย 

  • Participates in weekly emergency drills and responds to emergency situations as per assignedย duties on the Station Bill.ย 

  • Becomes familiar with the vessel's emergency and medical evacuation procedures.ย 

  • Reports any incidents, potential hazards, or abnormal situations to the marine supervisors.ย 

  • Provides clerical/administrative support to the OIM/Master as required.ย 

  • Coordinates crew changes by helicopter and boats.ย 

  • Maintains up to date personnel on board and room assignment lists.ย 

  • Maintains strict confidentiality of all work performed, including well data, payroll information,ย crew lists, and personal data including contact details of relatives of vessel's crew.ย 

  • Prepares time sheets for personnel onboard in accordance with payroll procedures whereย applicable.ย 

  • Arranges crew change travel where applicable

    Qualifications / Experience

  • High School diploma or equivalent.ย 

  • Fluent in English (oral and written).ย ย 

  • Basic computer skills.ย ย 

  • Valid GMDSS General Radio Operator's certificate


Behaviorsย ย ย ย 

As part of our commitment to fostering a high-performance culture, employees are expected to align their actions and decisions with the principles outlined in our Behavioral Framework. This framework serves as the foundation for our organizational culture and guides our behaviors to drive better outcomes across the company. Employees are responsible for incorporating these behaviors into their daily actions, relationships, and decision-making to help manage expectations, strengthen relationships, and contribute to the overall success of the organization.ย ย 

Our five behaviors that define our culture are:ย ย 

Analyze & Plan - Being deliberate in understanding and describing the problem to solve and using information from a range of relevant sources to develop solutions that are effective and evidence-based.ย 

Collaborateย - Collaborating effectively, sharing ideas, and leveraging one another's strengths based on trust, transparency, and empathy, creating an environment where everyone's input is valued.ย 

Communicate - Communicate clearly with all employees and stakeholders, ensuring active listening, understanding, and timely information sharing.ย 

Learn, Grow & Adapt - Building organizational capability through our own learning and development while coaching others and supporting others to adapt, learn, and develop.ย 

Deliver Results - Striving to deliver and exceed required results, identifying and overcoming obstacles, and taking responsibility for the outcome while respecting our values.ย 

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities as needed. Valaris is an equal opportunity employer in all aspects of employment to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age,ย disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or any other non-job-related factors.ย Valaris is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application process. If you need such an accommodation, or a religious accommodation, please contact ย recruiting@valaris.com.

At Valaris, our core purpose is to provide responsible solutions that deliver energy to the world.ย  Our purpose is the driving force that defines us as a leading organization in our industry.ย  Our diverse fleet of ultra-deepwater drillships, versatile semisubmersibles and modern shallow-water jackups is capable of meeting a wide spectrum of customers' well program requirements.ย  Our rig fleet is among the most technologically advanced in the industry and our well-trained crews perform at the highest levels in the most challenging offshore environments.ย  With an unwavering focus on safety and dedicated employees, we provide innovative solutions and aim to deliver excellence in everything that we do.