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Marine Radio Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Valaris

Radio Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

Job Summary The Radio Operator operates vessel communications equipment, answers phones, and ... Maintains a radio listening watch on marine and aeronautical emergency frequencies. * Maintains ...

Valaris

Radio Operator

Houston, TX

Job Summary The Radio Operator operates vessel communications equipment, answers phones, and ... Maintains a radio listening watch on marine and aeronautical emergency frequencies. * Maintains ...

St. Mary's County, MD

Boat Captain

Leonardtown, MD · On-site

$33.01/hr

FCC valid Marine Radio Operator Permit (MP) Education and Experience 1. Ability to gain thorough knowledge of St. Mary's County Government policies and procedures; 2. Ability to effectively ...

bayou marine electronics

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Marine Electronics Technician

Mandeville, LA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Marine Electronic Technicians utilize their electronic and electrical knowledge to address various ... Valid FCC General License with Radar Endorsement & GMDSS Radio Operator Maintainer License is ...

bayou marine electronics

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Marine Electronics Technician

Chalmette, LA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Marine Electronic Technicians utilize their electronic and electrical knowledge to address various ... Valid FCC General License with Radar Endorsement & GMDSS Radio Operator Maintainer License is ...

bayou marine electronics

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Marine Electronics Technician

Slidell, LA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Marine Electronic Technicians utilize their electronic and electrical knowledge to address various ... Valid FCC General License with Radar Endorsement & GMDSS Radio Operator Maintainer License is ...

Mormac Marine Group Inc

Captain

Sault Sainte Marie, MI · On-site

FCC Marine Radio Operators Permit (MROP) * First Aid/CPR certification * Successful completion of and alcohol and drug tests (mandated by the USCG) including but not limited to pre-employment, random ...

Allen Marine Tours

Captain

Juneau, AK · On-site

$30 - $39/hr

Required FCC Marine Radio Operators Permit (MROP). Zodiac Captain Requirements for Captain Required minimum 25-ton license. Required FCC Marine Radio Operators Permit (MROP). Preferred Qualifications ...

Red Hospitality

Captain

HI · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

FCC Marine Radio Operator's Permit Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: * Comfortable working outdoors in variable weather conditions, including direct sunlight and fluctuating temperatures * Ability to ...

Red Hospitality & Leisure

FCC Marine Radio Operator's Permit Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: * Comfortable working outdoors in variable weather conditions, including direct sunlight and fluctuating temperatures * Ability to ...

Yulista

Navigational Watch 3rd Mate

Panama City, FL · On-site

GMDSS Radio Operator License and FCC Marine Radio Operator Permit. * U.S. Navy Naval X-Craft HSC Type Rating (Master) or obtain within 60 days after vessel availability. * Must be able to obtain and ...

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Marine Radio Operator information

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How much do marine radio operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine 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.

How much does a marine radio operator make?

Marine radio operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. They often work in maritime environments, using radio communication tools and requiring FCC licensing. Salaries can vary based on location, vessel type, and job responsibilities.

How to become a marine radio operator on a ship?

To become a marine radio operator, you need to obtain a Marine Radio Operator Permit from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which requires passing a written exam on radio regulations and procedures. Additionally, gaining maritime experience and knowledge of radio equipment, such as GMDSS systems, is essential; some positions may also require maritime safety training or certifications like STCW. Once certified, operators typically work onboard ships or at maritime communication centers, adhering to international and national regulations.

What is a marine radio operator?

A Marine Radio Operator is responsible for managing radio communications on ships, ensuring clear and reliable contact with other vessels, ports, and emergency services. They monitor distress signals, weather reports, and navigational warnings to help ensure maritime safety. Operators must understand radio procedures, regulations, and equipment operation, including troubleshooting technical issues. This role is crucial for maintaining safe and efficient maritime operations, particularly in emergencies.

What does a Marine Radio Operator do in the Marines?

A Marine Radio Operator is responsible for maintaining communication between military units and command centers using radio equipment. They operate, monitor, and troubleshoot communication systems, often requiring certifications in radio operation and knowledge of radio protocols. Their role is essential for coordinating operations and ensuring secure, reliable communication in various environments.

What are the typical work conditions and team interactions for a marine radio operator?

Marine Radio Operators usually work aboard ships or at maritime communication centers, often in shifts to provide round-the-clock coverage. You’ll interact closely with ship officers, crew members, harbor authorities, and sometimes emergency services to coordinate safe navigation and transmit important messages. The role may require quick thinking and decisive action, especially during emergency situations or bad weather. Working as a Marine Radio Operator is collaborative, and you'll play a critical part in the vessel's overall safety and communication network.

Do I need a license to operate a marine radio?

Marine Radio Operators are required to obtain a license from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to legally operate marine radios in the United States. The license ensures proper use of radio frequencies and safety communication standards, and it typically involves passing an exam to demonstrate knowledge of radio procedures and regulations.

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

To thrive as a Marine Radio Operator, you need a solid understanding of radio communications, maritime procedures, and navigational terminology, often backed by a relevant certification such as a Marine Radio Operator Permit (MROP). Familiarity with radio transmission equipment, Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), and emergency protocols is essential. Attention to detail, calmness under pressure, and excellent verbal communication are critical soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate message relay, effective emergency response, and safe vessel operations in dynamic marine environments.

More about Marine Radio Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Marine Radio Operator jobs? The most popular types of Marine Radio Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Marine Radio Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Marine Radio Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Marine Radio Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Marine Radio Operator jobs are:
Marine Radio Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Marine Radio Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, 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 25 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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