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Ham Radio Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Valaris

Radio Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

Job Summary The Radio Operator operates vessel communications equipment, answers phones, and carries out clerical duties such as filing and typing as directed. Principal Duties and Responsibilities

Valaris

Radio Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

Job Summary The Radio Operator operates vessel communications equipment, answers phones, and carries out clerical duties such as filing and typing as directed. Principal Duties and Responsibilities

West Virginia

Radio Operator

Charleston, WV · On-site

$26K - $44K/yr

... radio base station system. Employee will also serve as the District Office Receptionist with primary responsibility for answering a multi-line phone system and responding to public questions ...

TNBR Careers

Youth Programs Adjunct

Morristown, TN · On-site

Minimum HAM Radio Technician License; Preferred General Class License * 2 or more years as a licensed HAM Radio Operator either Technician, General, Advanced or Extra Class * Knowledge and experience ...

Burks Beverage

PT board operator

Dyersburg, TN · On-site

Part-Time Radio Board Operator with Burks Broadcasting * Board Operator for sport broadcasting events, and live broadcasting remotes on the radio stations. * Sports broadcasts and Live remotes dates ...

Ball Arena

SkyCam NOC Operator

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Strong ability to multitask, and monitor long hours of radio communication-Ham Radio operators are encouraged to apply * Excellent problem-solving, communication, and decision-making abilities ...

New

iHeartMedia

Board Operator - WMMS

Cleveland, OH · On-site

More #1 rated markets than the next two largest radio companies combined; * We're the largest ... What We Need: We're seeking a skilled Board Operator to provide programming and control board ...

iHeartMedia, Inc.

Temporary Board Operator

Medford, MA · On-site

More #1 rated markets than the next two largest radio companies combined; * We're the largest ... Seeking an board operator to run live soccer matches. At iHeartMedia, we believe in the power of ...

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Ham Radio Operator information

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How much do ham radio operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for ham 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 a ham radio operator?

Ham radio operators, also known as amateur radio operators, are individuals who use radio equipment to communicate with others over designated radio frequencies for non-commercial purposes. They are licensed by government authorities and often participate in emergency communications, technical experimentation, and community events. Ham radio operators connect with people locally and around the world, exchange knowledge, and provide valuable communication services during disasters when other networks fail.

What are some common challenges ham radio operators face when communicating across long distances?

Ham Radio Operators often encounter challenges such as signal interference, varying atmospheric conditions, and the need to adjust frequencies due to propagation changes. Effective long-distance communication may require understanding of band plans, antenna adjustments, and sometimes coordinating with other operators to avoid congestion. Building technical troubleshooting skills and staying updated on regulations are essential for success and enjoyable operation in this field.

What is the difference between Ham Radio Operator vs Amateur Radio Technician?

AspectHam Radio OperatorAmateur Radio Technician
CertificationsLicense (e.g., FCC Technician, General, Extra)License (e.g., FCC Technician)
Work EnvironmentPersonal stations, public events, emergency communicationPersonal stations, educational settings, community events
Industry UsageHobbyists, emergency services, community communicationHobbyists, entry-level operators, educational programs

Ham Radio Operator is a broad term encompassing licensed individuals who communicate via radio for hobby, emergency, or community purposes. An Amateur Radio Technician is a licensed operator with a specific entry-level certification, primarily focused on basic radio operation and emergency communication. While both roles involve radio communication and require FCC licensing, Ham Radio Operators often have higher licenses with more privileges. The Technician license is a common starting point for hobbyists and emergency responders, making the two roles closely related but distinct in scope and certification level.

Is it worth becoming a ham radio operator?

Becoming a ham radio operator involves obtaining a license, learning radio communication skills, and operating equipment such as transceivers. It can be a rewarding hobby or service for those interested in communications, emergency preparedness, and technical skills, with opportunities for community involvement and technical learning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ham radio operator?

To thrive as a Ham Radio Operator, you need knowledge of radio theory, electronics, and federal regulations, usually supported by an amateur radio license from the FCC. Familiarity with transceivers, antennas, digital communication modes, and logging software is important for effective operation. Strong problem-solving, communication, and networking skills help operators build connections and respond under pressure, especially during emergencies. These skills ensure safe, legal, and effective radio communication, enabling operators to support both recreational and emergency communication needs.

How hard is it to become a ham radio operator?

Becoming a ham radio operator requires passing a licensing exam that tests knowledge of radio regulations, safety, and operating procedures. The exam is generally accessible to beginners and can be prepared for through study guides and practice tests; most people find it achievable with some dedicated preparation. Once licensed, operators can start transmitting and experimenting with radio equipment immediately.
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Ham Radio Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ham Radio Operator job openings in the United States as of August 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 $49,098 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Radio Operator

Valaris

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 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.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
  • Receives and transmits messages between the vessel and shore bases, supply vessels, helicopters, and other stations by radio telephone.
  • Operates all communication equipment in the radio room, and ensures it is well maintained and operational.
  • Maintains a radio listening watch on marine and aeronautical emergency frequencies.
  • Maintains records/logs of all radio communications to and from the vessel. Keeps records of telephone charges if possible.
  • Ensures the maintenance of all electronic navigational aids where applicable.
  • Tests the standby radio equipment and the radio equipment in the lifeboats on a weekly basis, including the testing of the radio room batteries.
  • Advises the OIM/Master of any emergency situations within the vicinity of the vessel.
  • Informs the Helicopter Landing Officer and Bridge of all helicopter traffic to the vessel.
  • Establishes and maintains radio communications with helicopter traffic to and from the vessel.
  • Advises pilots of landing clearances, meteorological conditions, etc., and records in the helicopter movement log.
  • Coordinates and controls the isolation of radio equipment during periods of radio silence.
  • Participates in weekly emergency drills and responds to emergency situations as per assigned duties on the Station Bill.
  • Becomes familiar with the vessel's emergency and medical evacuation procedures.
  • Reports any incidents, potential hazards, or abnormal situations to the marine supervisors.
  • Provides clerical/administrative support to the OIM/Master as required.
  • Coordinates crew changes by helicopter and boats.
  • Maintains up to date personnel on board and room assignment lists.
  • Maintains strict confidentiality of all work performed, including well data, payroll information, crew lists, and personal data including contact details of relatives of vessel's crew.
  • Prepares time sheets for personnel onboard in accordance with payroll procedures where applicable.
  • Arranges crew change travel where applicable
    Qualifications / Experience
  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Fluent in English (oral and written).
  • Basic computer skills.
  • 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 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.
Our five behaviors that define our culture are:
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.
Collaborate - 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.
Communicate - Communicate clearly with all employees and stakeholders, ensuring active listening, understanding, and timely information sharing.
Learn, Grow & Adapt - Building organizational capability through our own learning and development while coaching others and supporting others to adapt, learn, and develop.
Deliver Results - Striving to deliver and exceed required results, identifying and overcoming obstacles, and taking responsibility for the outcome while respecting our values.
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, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or any other non-job-related factors. 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 recruiting@valaris.com.
About Us
At Valaris, our core purpose is to provide responsible solutions that deliver energy to the world. Our purpose is the driving force that defines us as a leading organization in our industry. 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. 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. With an unwavering focus on safety and dedicated employees, we provide innovative solutions and aim to deliver excellence in everything that we do.

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