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Marine Boat Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Inland Marine Boat Pilot Trumbull-Brayman Joint Venture Montgomery Lock & Dam Project - Monaca ... This is a long-term, full-time position responsible for operating project vessels supporting heavy ...

GARNEY As a Tug Boat Operator in Buford, GA at Garney Construction, you will be responsible for the ... This role requires a deep understanding of marine navigation and safety protocols and excellent ...

As a Boat Skimmer Operator, you will play a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness and safety ... If you enjoy working outdoors and have a passion for marine environments, this is the perfect ...

Boat Skimmer Operator

Jersey City, NJ · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

As a Boat Skimmer Operator, you will play a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness and safety ... If you enjoy working outdoors and have a passion for marine environments, this is the perfect ...

GARNEY As a Tug Boat Operator in Buford, GA at Garney Construction, you will be responsible for the ... This role requires a deep understanding of marine navigation and safety protocols and excellent ...

Job Title: Vessel Operator - Push Boat Location: Lake Adger, NC Reports to: Huey Deville ... Mentor junior crew members on marine safety and line-handling techniques. 3. Equipment Maintenance ...

GARNEY As a Tug Boat Operator in Buford, GA at Garney Construction, you will be responsible for the ... This role requires a deep understanding of marine navigation and safety protocols and excellent ...

Operate skimmer boat equipment to remove surface debris and contaminants from waterways * Conduct ... Experience performing routine mechanical maintenance and troubleshooting on marine vessels and ...

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$45K - $90K/yr

With the growing demand for offshore energy expansion, marine natural resource management, and ... Experience in boat handling and seamanship: licensed boater or captain is desired. Experience ...

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Marine Boat Operator information

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How much do marine boat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine boat operator in the United States is $20.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Marine Boat Operator, you need strong navigation skills, knowledge of maritime laws, and typically a valid captain's license or merchant mariner credential. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, marine radios, and safety equipment is essential for daily operations. Excellent situational awareness, clear communication, and problem-solving abilities set outstanding operators apart. These skills ensure safe and efficient vessel operation, compliance with regulations, and effective response to emergencies on the water.

What are some common challenges faced by Marine Boat Operators during routine operations?

Marine Boat Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating through adverse weather conditions, managing vessel maintenance, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. They must remain vigilant to prevent mechanical issues and respond quickly to emergencies or unexpected obstacles on the water. Effective communication with crew members and coordination with harbor authorities are also essential, as these help maintain safety and efficiency during operations.

What is a Marine Boat Operator?

A Marine Boat Operator is a professional responsible for navigating and operating boats or other watercraft, typically for transportation, cargo delivery, or support operations in marine environments. They handle the operation, maintenance, and safety of the vessel, ensuring it is seaworthy and complies with maritime laws. Marine Boat Operators may work in commercial shipping, passenger transport, fishing, offshore oil and gas, or government agencies. Their duties often include charting courses, monitoring weather conditions, and supervising crew members. Specialized training and certifications are usually required for this role.

What is the difference between Marine Boat Operator vs Marine Deckhand?

AspectMarine Boat OperatorMarine Deckhand
CertificationsBoating licenses, STCW certificationsSTCW, safety training, basic seamanship
Work EnvironmentOperate boats, navigate waterways, onboard or onshoreAssist with deck duties, maintenance, safety procedures
Employer & IndustryMarinas, shipping companies, tour operatorsCommercial vessels, fishing, cargo ships

Marine Boat Operators primarily focus on operating and navigating vessels, requiring specific licenses and certifications. Marine Deckhands assist with deck operations, maintenance, and safety, often with similar certifications but different responsibilities. Both roles are essential in maritime industries, with overlapping certifications and work environments, but distinct job functions.

More about Marine Boat Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Marine Boat Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Marine Boat Operator jobs are:

Inland Marine Boat Pilot

The Lindy Group

Monaca, PA

$44.96/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Inland Marine Boat Pilot

Trumbull-Brayman Joint Venture Montgomery Lock & Dam Project - Monaca, Pennsylvania

Trumbull Corporation is seeking an experienced union Inland Marine Boat Pilot to support the Montgomery Lock & Dam Project in Monaca, Pennsylvania, a major U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) infrastructure project located on the Ohio River navigation system with an estimated 8-year duration.

This is a long-term, full-time position responsible for operating project vessels supporting heavy civil construction activities. The Boat Pilot will operate towboats and support vessels used to position barges, floating cranes, and other marine equipment within an active inland river navigation pool.

This position offers stable, long-term employment on a high-profile federal infrastructure project supporting the U.S. inland waterway system.

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Schedule & Compensation

The typical work schedule is Monday through Friday - approximately 40 hours per week, with additional overtime available based on project needs and in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement.

This is a union position, and the successful candidate will become a member of the applicable Operating Engineers Local.

Compensation includes:

  • Union wage starting at $44.96 per hour based on experience
  • Overtime pay
  • Medical / Prescription Drug Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Pension Plan
  • Additional benefits provided through the collective bargaining agreement

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Key Responsibilities

The Boat Pilot is responsible for safely operating project vessels and supporting marine construction activities within an active inland river navigation pool.

Responsibilities include:

  • Operating towboats and support vessels used for construction operations
  • Positioning and maneuvering construction barges, crane barges, and floating equipment
  • Assisting with marine construction activities including pile driving operations and barge crane work
  • Monitoring river conditions and coordinating vessel movements within the inland navigation system
  • Working closely with marine crews, deckhands, and equipment operators to support field operations
  • Ensuring safe vessel operation and compliance with USACE requirements and Coast Guard regulations
  • Performing daily inspections of vessels and marine equipment
  • Maintaining communication with project supervision and marine fleet personnel
  • Assisting with general marine operations and maintaining safe work areas
  • The Boat Pilot is expected to operate vessels safely while supporting efficient marine construction operations on the project.

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Qualifications & Education

  • Minimum 5 years of experience operating towboats or similar inland marine vessels
  • Minimum 10 years of marine experience
  • Experience operating vessels within inland river navigation systems
  • Experience supporting marine construction operations or barge fleet movements preferred
  • Knowledge of river navigation practices, barge handling, and vessel positioning
  • Familiarity with lock and dam navigation procedures
  • Strong understanding of marine safety practices and navigation rules
  • Ability to work effectively with marine crews and construction personnel
  • Commitment to maintaining safe vessel operations
  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) or equivalent marine license required
  • Recent and verifiable work history required

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Work Environment

Work is performed on and around water within an active inland river navigation pool supporting heavy civil construction operations. Duties involve operating vessels and working aboard towboats, barges, and floating equipment in varying weather and river conditions.


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