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Marine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Crane Operator

Vallejo, CA ยท On-site

$34.41 - $68.18/hr

The Marine Crane Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of cranes on vessels, offshore rigs, or marine terminals. This role ensures the secure lifting, movement, and placement ...

The Marine Crane Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of cranes on vessels, offshore rigs, or marine terminals. This role ensures the secure lifting, movement, and placement ...

Showing results 21-40

Marine Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$24

$34

How much do marine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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 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:

Infographic showing various Marine Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 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.

Naval Shipboard Marine Mechanic (4135)

Three Saints Bay, LLC

Chula Vista, CA โ€ข On-site

$27.75 - $33.25/hr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired 4 days ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Amee Bay, LLC, a subsidiary of Three Saints Bay, LLC, and a government-industry leader is looking for a Naval Shipboard Marine Mechanic to join our Team in San Diego, CA.
Shipboard Electricians perform a wide variety of tasks depending on the needs of the company.
Position Responsibilities:
  • Knowledge of maritime mechanical systems.
  • Navy tag-out, WAF programs, and applicable Naval procedures/instructions.
  • Maintain QWI and associated forms.
  • Implements and monitors OSHA safety.
  • Demonstrated ability to supervise junior personnel;
  • Understanding of shipboard mechanical machinery equipment and systems such as main propulsion machinery, auxiliary machinery, and hydraulics;
  • Ability to troubleshoot, disassemble, and inspect Hull, Mechanical, and Electric (HM&E) equipment;
  • Ability to disassemble, clean, assess and inspect, reassemble, and operationally test mechanical systems;
  • Knowledge of mechanical systems components such as valves, bearings, gears, remote operators, couplings, system alignment, etc;
  • Fully versed in the use of all types of precision measuring instruments, such as calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, and torque wrenches.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, sketches, written technical instructions, and manuals, make red-line drawings, and design recommendations.

Position Requirements:
  • US Citizenship
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain active Secret Security Clearance and Base Access; Candidates currently possessing an Active Secret Clearance are preferred.
  • Experience levels:
  • Minimum ten (10) years experience for 1st Class designation;
  • Minimum five (5) years experience for 2nd Class designation;
  • Minimum one (1) year experience for 3rd Class designation;
  • No previous experience for Craftsmen designation.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Navy 'A' / 'C' school(s) or completion of a vocational, maritime, or equivalent Journeyman training program.
  • Valid U.S. Driver's License.
  • Must pass drug screening.
  • Candidates must furnish the hand tools required for this position.

Preferred Experience, but not Required.
  • Prior military experience directly related to the position or prior experience in the Maritime Industry.
  • Prior experience with US Navy Auxiliary equipment including, but not limited to; Cargo/Weapons Elevators, Aircraft Elevators, Deck Edge Doors, Hanger Bay Divisional Doors, Vertical Package Conveyors, 5-inch Ammunition Strike down Equipment, CIWS Mount Skip boxes.
  • Prior experience working on Marine Diesel Engines
  • Prior experience working on Gas Turbine Engines

Position is located in San Deigo, CA.
Apply online at: https://phg.tbe.taleo.net/phg01/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=GATEWAYVENT&cws=43&rid=4135
VEVRAA Federal Contractor
Three Saints Bay, LLC and its subsidiaries offer a team-oriented working environment and the opportunity to work with exceptional, dedicated industry professionals. We offer our employees a comprehensive benefits package and the opportunity to take part in exciting projects with government and commercial clients, both domestic and international.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite resumes from all interested parties without regard to race, color, sex, sexual preference, religion, creed, national origin, age, genetic information, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.