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Marine Vessel Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Moran Environmental Recovery

Vessel Operator

Tampa, FL · On-site

The Vessel Operator is responsible for safely operating and maintaining response vessels while ... Execution of field work encompassed in marine projects while under direct or indirect supervision.

Lynker Corporation

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$45K - $90K/yr

With the growing demand for offshore energy expansion, marine natural resource management, and ... Responsibilities Duties of the Uncrewed Vessel Operator will include, but not be limited to, the ...

Lynker Corporation

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$45K - $90K/yr

With the growing demand for offshore energy expansion, marine natural resource management, and ... Duties of the Uncrewed Vessel Operator will include, but not be limited to, the following: The ...

NSC STAFFING

Marine Craft Mechanic

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$26 - $31/hr

This position supports mission-critical vessel operations through preventative maintenance ... Frequent interaction with maintenance teams, operators, and government personnel. Physical ...

NSC Staffing

Marine Craft Mechanic

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$25.75 - $30.75/hr

This position supports mission-critical vessel operations through preventative maintenance ... Frequent interaction with maintenance teams, operators, and government personnel. Physical ...

NSC STAFFING

Marine Craft Mechanic

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$26 - $31/hr

This position supports mission-critical vessel operations through preventative maintenance ... Frequent interaction with maintenance teams, operators, and government personnel. Physical ...

NSC STAFFING

Marine Craft Mechanic

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$26 - $31/hr

This position supports mission-critical vessel operations through preventative maintenance ... Frequent interaction with maintenance teams, operators, and government personnel. Physical ...

NSC Staffing

Marine Craft Mechanic

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$26 - $31/hr

This position supports mission-critical vessel operations through preventative maintenance ... Frequent interaction with maintenance teams, operators, and government personnel. Physical ...

Republic Services

Vessel Operator I

Seattle, WA

$30.08/hr

Operates vessel, when safe to do so, in oceans, bays, lakes, rivers or coastal waters as directed ... Should have or be willing to obtain CPR/First Aid, Marine Crane Operator Certification and Cold ...

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Marine Vessel Operator information

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How much do marine vessel operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine vessel operator in the United States is $24.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $31.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a marine vessel operator do?

A Marine Vessel Operator is responsible for navigating and operating boats, ships, or other watercraft safely and efficiently. They ensure compliance with maritime regulations, monitor weather conditions, and oversee crew and cargo operations. Their duties may include steering, maintaining communication with port authorities, and responding to emergencies. Vessel operators work in industries such as transportation, fishing, tourism, and military operations. Proper licensing and training are required, depending on the vessel type and location of operation.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a marine vessel operator?

To thrive as a Marine Vessel Operator, you need a thorough understanding of marine navigation, vessel handling, and safety procedures, usually supported by a relevant maritime license or certification. Familiarity with navigation systems (such as GPS and radar), radio communication equipment, and marine regulations is essential. Strong decision-making skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure are key soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial to ensure safe, efficient vessel operations and compliance with maritime laws in challenging environments.

What challenges do marine vessel operators face in their daily work?

Marine Vessel Operators frequently encounter challenges such as navigating adverse weather conditions, managing vessel maintenance, and ensuring compliance with strict safety and environmental regulations. You’ll also need to remain alert for other marine traffic and potential mechanical issues while maintaining clear communication with crew and port authorities. Operating on tight schedules and adapting to unexpected changes in routes or cargo are also common aspects of the job. Successfully addressing these challenges requires a high level of expertise, situational awareness, and teamwork.

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What states have the most Marine Vessel Operator jobs?

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Marine Vessel Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Marine Vessel 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 $51,325 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Vessel Operator

Moran Environmental Recovery

Tampa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Safely operate and maintain response vessels and related equipment during emergency environmental response and remediation projects.

  • Respond to on-water oil spills and other environmental emergencies by conducting containment, recovery, and cleanup activities.

  • Support routine vessel operations, including vessel line handling, inspections, basic maintenance, and participation in safety procedures.

Job description

JOB SUMMARY:

The Vessel Operator is responsible for safely operating and maintaining response vessels while supporting emergency environmental response and remediation projects. This role plays a critical part in on-water oil spill response activities, including containment, recovery, and cleanup operations. In addition to emergency response work, the operator will assist with routine vessel line handling, environmental and industrial service projects.

This position requires a strong commitment to safety, the ability to work in challenging outdoor and industrial environments, and flexibility to respond to emergencies outside of normal business hours.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Execution of field work encompassed in marine projects while under direct or indirect supervision.
  • Safely operate and maintain response vessels ranging from 24 to 32 feet in length. 
  • The ability to safely drive and perform safety checks on all vehicles for which licensed.
  • Tow, launch, and retrieve vessels and related equipment. 
  • Deploy and operate oil spill response equipment, including containment boom, skimmers, pumps, and ancillary tools. 
  • Perform routine vessel inspections and basic maintenance to ensure operational readiness. 
  • Respond to emergency on-water oil spills and other environmental emergencies. 
  • Conduct containment, recovery, and cleanup activities in marine and shoreline environments. 
  • Support environmental remediation, industrial cleaning, and other non-emergency service projects. 
  • Participate in after-hours, weekend, and holiday emergency callouts as needed. 
  • Adhere to all company policies, client requirements, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations. 
  • Participate in daily safety meetings, toolbox talks, and job hazard analyses. 
  • Maintain compliance with site-specific health and safety plans. 
  • Properly use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow hazardous materials handling procedures. 
  • Complete daily work reports, timesheets, and safety documentation accurately and on time. 
  • Report equipment issues, incidents, and safety concerns promptly.
  • Due to the diversity of both scheduled and non-scheduled projects, physical demands, and environmental conditions vary significantly depending on the project.

 

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions, including rain, heat, cold, and wind. 
  • Perform duties in marine, industrial, and hazardous environments. 
  • Frequently lift, carry, and move equipment weighing 50 pounds or more. 
  • Stand, walk, bend, climb, and perform physically demanding tasks for extended periods. 
  • May be required to travel to response locations and work extended shifts during emergencies. 

 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High School Diploma or GED. 
  • Valid Driver’s License with a satisfactory driving record. 
  • Experience operating small vessels. 
  • Ability to read, understand, and follow safety procedures and technical instructions. 
  • Ability to work flexible schedules and respond to emergency callouts. 

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

 

  • Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A or B. 
  • United States Coast Guard OUPV (“6-Pack”) License. 
  • Transportation Security Administration TWIC Card. 
  • Previous oil spill response, marine operations, or environmental remediation experience. 
  • OSHA HAZWOPER certification (40-hour). 

 

SCHEDULE & AVAILABILITY

  • Flexible schedule with on-call availability required. 
  • Must be available to work nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours during emergency response operations. 
  • Overtime and travel may be required based on project and response needs.
What We Offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Company paid Life, AD&D, and Long-Term Disability Insurance Plans
  • Employee Assistance, Health Advocate, and Wellness Programs
  • Generous 401(k) Plan with 4% match 
  • Company paid Financial Advice Program
  • Career development opportunities, including our Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Paid Vacation based on years of service

 

Moran Environmental Recovery is an Equal Opportunity Employer.