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Marine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Westar Marine Services

Lead Welder

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$23 - $30.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Competitive hourly pay of $, based on experience and certifications. * Full-time, year-round work with a stable, established Bay Area marine operator. * Health, dental, and vision benefits. * Paid ...

Willard Marine

MARINE ASSEMBLER

Oceanside, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operate machinery used in the production process or assist machine operators. * Lift raw materials ... Paid Holidays Willard Marine offers an exciting and supportive business environment. We develop our ...

Wood Plc

Marine/Aquatic Scientist

San Diego, CA

Operating field collection equipment and small boats (e.g., sediment and water samplers, water ... Familiarity with California Marine/Aquatic Environments. Company Overview Wood is a global leader ...

Republic Services

Marine Mechanic Technician A

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$29.15 - $40.10/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Marine Mechanic Technician A provides expert maintenance and repairs to vessels, marine ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Marine Mechanic Technician A

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$29.15 - $40.10/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Marine Mechanic Technician A provides expert maintenance and repairs to vessels, marine ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

APS Stevedoring

Marine Superintendent

Richmond, CA · On-site

$300/hr

APS is hiring a Part Time Marine Superintendent for our Richmond CA location. You can expect 1-2 ... operating procedures, (c) ensure accomplishment of productivity levels by making frequent rounds ...

APS Stevedoring

Marine Superintendent

Richmond, CA · On-site

$300/day

APS is hiring a Part Time Marine Superintendent for our Richmond CA location. You can expect 1-2 ... operating procedures, (c) ensure accomplishment of productivity levels by making frequent rounds ...

APS Stevedoring

Marine Superintendent

Richmond, CA

$300/wk

APS is hiring a Part Time Marine Superintendent for our Richmond CA location. You can expect 1-2 ... operating procedures, (c) ensure accomplishment of productivity levels by making frequent rounds ...

Hornblower

Painter - Marine Operations

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$31 - $35/hr

... Marine, which provides vessel outhaul and maintenance services at Bridgeport Boatworks in ... Additionally, Anchor Operating System, LLC, a Hornblower Group subsidiary and independent entity ...

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All JobsMarine Operator JobsMarine Operator Jobs in California

Marine Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$24

$34

How much do marine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine operator in California is $24.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $29.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a marine operator?

Marine Operators are professionals responsible for the safe and efficient operation of vessels or marine facilities, such as ports, ships, or offshore platforms. Their duties often include managing vessel movements, coordinating cargo operations, ensuring compliance with maritime regulations, and overseeing crew activities. Marine Operators play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and safe transportation of goods and people over water. They often work closely with port authorities, shipping companies, and regulatory bodies. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are important for success in this role.

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

To thrive as a Marine Operator, you need strong knowledge of maritime operations, navigation, and safety protocols, typically supported by relevant certifications such as STCW or a marine engineering license. Familiarity with vessel monitoring systems, onboard machinery, and communication equipment is essential for daily operations. Excellent problem-solving skills, situational awareness, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring vessel safety, operational efficiency, and compliance with maritime regulations.

How do marine operators typically coordinate with other departments during vessel operations?

Marine Operators regularly collaborate with departments such as logistics, engineering, safety, and port authorities to ensure efficient and safe vessel movements. This involves constant communication to manage schedules, cargo handling, compliance checks, and emergency response plans. Successful coordination helps prevent delays, minimizes risks, and ensures that all regulatory and operational requirements are met. Being proactive and detail-oriented is essential for maintaining smooth operations in this fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

What is the difference between Marine Operator vs Marine Technician?

AspectMarine OperatorMarine Technician
Required CertificationsSTCW certifications, Marine Radio Operator PermitSTCW certifications, Marine Electronics or Mechanical Certifications
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, marine terminals, offshore platformsShip maintenance, repair facilities, onboard systems
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, offshore oil & gas, portsShip repair yards, marine service companies, offshore operations

Marine Operators and Marine Technicians both work in maritime environments and often hold similar certifications. However, Marine Operators primarily manage vessel operations and navigation, while Marine Technicians focus on maintaining and repairing onboard systems. Both roles are essential in the maritime industry, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ.

What do marine operators do?

Marine operators are responsible for operating and maintaining marine vessels and equipment used in transportation, construction, or offshore activities. They monitor vessel systems, ensure safety protocols are followed, and may require certifications such as STCW or TWIC. Their work environment often involves shifts on ships or in control centers, requiring strong technical skills and attention to safety standards.

What types of jobs are in the Marine Operator?

Marine Operator jobs typically include roles such as vessel operators, port and terminal operators, and marine equipment operators. These positions involve operating ships, cranes, or other marine machinery, often requiring certifications like STCW or TWIC, and may involve shift work in maritime environments.

What are popular job titles related to Marine Operator jobs in California?

For Marine Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Marine Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Marine Operator jobs in California are:

Marine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Marine Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,203 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Lead Welder

Westar Marine Services

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$23 - $30.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Lead Welder to direct welding and fabrication work across our fleet and shop. The Lead Welder is responsible for executing high-quality marine welds, fabricating and repairing steel and aluminum structures, and leading a small team of welders and fabricators. This is a hands-on leadership role: you will be on the tools, setting the standard for workmanship, safety, and productivity, while planning jobs and mentoring less experienced crew members.



Key Responsibilities


  • Perform structural and repair welding on vessels, barges, tugs, and shoreside equipment using SMAW, FCAW, GMAW (MIG), and GTAW (TIG) processes.
  • Fabricate, modify, and install steel and aluminum components, including hull plating, frames, brackets, piping supports, deck fittings, and railings.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, weld symbols, and fabrication drawings; lay out and prep material to spec.
  • Lead day-to-day welding operations: assign tasks, set priorities, and ensure jobs are completed on schedule and to specification.
  • Inspect welds and finished work for compliance with ABS, USCG, and company quality standards; identify and correct defects.
  • Mentor and train junior welders and fabricators; promote a culture of safety, accountability, and craftsmanship.
  • Maintain welding equipment, consumables, and the work area in safe, organized, ready-to-work condition.
  • Work in marine environments: shipyards, drydocks, on vessels afloat, and in confined spaces, often in variable weather.
  • Follow all Westar Marine Services safety procedures, USCG requirements, OSHA standards, and applicable hot-work permitting practices.


Required Qualifications


  • 5+ years of professional welding and fabrication experience, with significant time in a marine, shipyard, or offshore environment.
  • ABS (American Bureau of Shipping) welder certification.
  • Proficiency in multiple welding processes: SMAW (stick), FCAW (flux core), GMAW (MIG), and GTAW (TIG).
  • Demonstrated ability to weld and fabricate in both steel and aluminum.
  • Strong blueprint reading and layout skills.
  • Prior experience leading or supervising a small welding/fabrication crew.
  • Comfortable working at heights, in confined spaces, and on the water.
  • Physically able to lift 50+ lbs, stand for extended periods, and work in all weather conditions.
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation to Bay Area job sites.
  • Eligible to work in the United States.


Preferred Qualifications


  • Additional certifications such as AWS (American Welding Society) D1.1 (steel) and/or D1.2 (aluminum).
  • Experience working to USCG and ABS repair standards on commercial vessels.
  • TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential).
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
  • Experience with pipe welding and shipboard piping system repairs.


What We Offer


  • Competitive hourly pay of $, based on experience and certifications.
  • Full-time, year-round work with a stable, established Bay Area marine operator.
  • Health, dental, and vision benefits.
  • Paid time off and holidays.
  • Opportunity to lead and grow a skilled fabrication team.
  • Varied, hands-on work across a diverse fleet — no two days are the same.