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Marine Boat Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Island Marine Center

Marine Equipment Operator

Clearwater, FL · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

OVERVIEW: The Marine Equipment Operator is responsible for operating various pieces of marine ... Places keel blocks, boat stands and support blocks under vessel appropriate to the size of the boat ...

Island Marine Center

Marine Equipment Operator

Naples, FL · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

OVERVIEW: The Marine Equipment Operator is responsible for operating various pieces of marine ... Places keel blocks, boat stands and support blocks under vessel appropriate to the size of the boat ...

Island Marine Center

Marine Equipment Operator

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

OVERVIEW: The Marine Equipment Operator is responsible for operating various pieces of marine ... Places keel blocks, boat stands and support blocks under vessel appropriate to the size of the boat ...

B Marinas

Be Seen First

Marine Forklift Operator

Duxbury, MA · On-site

$35 - $46/hr

Marine Forklift Operator Company: Bluewater Bayside Marine - BaysideMarineCorp.com Location ... Oversee the organization of boat stands, blocks and plywood and maintain cleanliness of boatyard ...

Russell Marine LLC

Boat Captain

Ingleside, TX · On-site

The Boat Captain will operate a variety of marine vessels in support of the construction or repair ... Six(6) months of experience operating tug boats/marine vessels. * Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (KSA)

Irish Boat Shop

Marine Mechanic

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$27.75 - $33/hr

Marine Technician Full-Time | Traverse City, MI Irish Boat Shop, Inc ... Irish Boat Shop a family-owned and operated business that has served Northern Michigan for over 65 ...

Schneider

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

Our Boat Captains play an important role in safely operating and navigating company vessels, transporting crews and equipment, supporting marine construction activities, and coordinating with project ...

Orion Group Holdings, Inc.

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

Our Boat Captains play an important role in safely operating and navigating company vessels, transporting crews and equipment, supporting marine construction activities, and coordinating with project ...

TAS Concrete

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

Our Boat Captains play an important role in safely operating and navigating company vessels, transporting crews and equipment, supporting marine construction activities, and coordinating with project ...

Russell Marine LLC

Boat Captain

Channelview, TX · On-site

The Boat Captain will operate a variety of marine vessels in support of the construction or repair ... Six(6) months of experience operating tug boats/marine vessels. * Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (KSA)

Bass Pro Shops

$180 - $280/hr

Supported by the Tracker Marine Boat Center network, the largest volume boat retailer in the world ... Drive long-range financial planning, annual operating plans, and forecasting processes. Partner ...

Russell Marine LLC

Boat Captain

North Charleston, SC · On-site

The Boat Captain will operate a variety of marine vessels in support of the construction or repair ... Six(6) months of experience operating tug boats/marine vessels. * Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (KSA)

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Marine Boat Operator information

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How much do marine boat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 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 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 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 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 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:

Marine Boat Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Marine Boat Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,758 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Marine Equipment Operator

Island Marine Center

Clearwater, FL • On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

OVERVIEW:  The Marine Equipment Operator is responsible for operating various pieces of marine equipment such as travel lifts and forklifts to move vessels as needed for the operation. They are responsible for doing so in a manner that ensures the safety of all customers and team members.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Proper and safe operation of the forklift and or to ensure safe and timely moving, blocking and placement of all vessels for marina, sales and service.
  • Monitor BoatCloud, if applicable, and assist in the timely moves of customer, marina, sales and service scheduled boat moves.
  • Works with Dockmaster and Marina Team Leads, or appropriate Manager to ensure BoatCloud scheduled moves are completed.
  • Ensure all drain plugs or water pickups are secure, when applicable
  • Power-wash vessels when removed from salt/fresh water 
  • Proper and safe operation of vessels while maneuvering in/out of marina.
  • Proper and safe use of slings/shackles ensuring safe movements
  • Places keel blocks, boat stands and support blocks under vessel appropriate to the size of the boat, when applicable.
  • Slides and positions hull support blocks and frames against boat bottom for vertical support, when applicable.
  • Mounts propellers on shafts to prepare boats for launching, when applicable
  • Monitoring gauges, dials and other indicators to make sure machinery/equipment is working properly.
  • Checks equipment daily for proper fluid levels and general operation including hydraulic lines and hydraulic fittings, forks and straps condition, report any maintenance/repair issues to management
  • Report any needed dock repairs to proper management, including electrical, water, lines and dock boards.
  • Assist customers while docking, tying, boarding and disembarking from vessels providing professional customer service.
  • Promote and fully participate in the MarineMax Safety Program; ensuring a safe workplace free of hazards for all team members.
  • Gain a complete understanding of spill containment supplies and equipment and be knowledgeable in the use of these items

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Physical requirements for a Marine Equipment Operator are physically demanding, focusing on stamina, heavy lifting, and the ability to work in awkward, cramped positions. Key physical demands include:

  • Lifting and Carrying: The ability to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects, often more than 50 pounds.
  • Physical Stamina: Ability to stand and walk for long periods, sometimes up to several hours a day.
  • Mobility and Dexterity: Capable of bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, and crawling.
  • Climbing and Balance: Ability to climb vertical ladders and navigate stairs, including entering/exiting boats through hatches.
  • Sensory Requirements: Good vision and hearing are essential; this includes the ability to see details up close and distinguish between sounds. 
  • Weather Conditions: Exposure to extreme weather conditions including heat and cold

KEY RESULTS:

  • Knowledge of machinery and tools, including their designs, uses, benefits, repair and maintenance.
  • Safe operation of all equipment.
  • Ability to work well with others
  • Customer satisfaction and enthusiasm/FANS

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