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Marine Vessel Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Savard Group

Crane Operator

Harvey, LA · On-site

$40 - $42/hr

Experience operating cranes mounted on a barge or other marine vessel * Experience driving piles in a marine environment Shifts: * Monday-Friday * 0630-530 PM * Some Saturdays Duration: * Temp To ...

Savard Personnel Group

Crane Operator

Harvey, LA

$2.3K/wk

Experience operating cranes mounted on a barge or other marine vessel * Experience driving piles in a marine environment Shifts: * Monday-Friday * 0630-530 PM * Some Saturdays Duration: * Temp To ...

Savard Group

Crane Operator

Harvey, LA · On-site

$2.3K/wk

Experience operating cranes mounted on a barge or other marine vessel * Experience driving piles in a marine environment Shifts: * Monday-Friday * 0630-530 PM * Some Saturdays Duration: * Temp To ...

Helix Resources, LLC

Ferry Operator

Grand Isle, LA · On-site

Previous marine, vessel, or ferry operating experience preferred. * Strong understanding of maritime safety procedures. * Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions. * Excellent ...

Airswift

Marine Coordinator

Houston, TX · On-site

The role includes engagement across marine teams, commercial operations, and vessel operators within a global trading and terminal environment. The Marine Coordinator role may involve periodic ...

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Marine Vessel Operator information

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How much do marine vessel operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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 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.

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.

How much do marine vessel operators make?

Marine vessel operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, vessel type, and location. Salaries can increase with certifications, specialized skills, and working on larger or more complex vessels.
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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 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,325 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Vessel Operations and Customer Success Lead

Sea Machines

Boston, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Sea Machines Robotics Sea Machines is a fast-growing startup specializing in autonomous technology for marine vessels. The world's oceans convey 90% of global commerce. We're applying practical A.I. to disrupt the massive marine and maritime transportation market. Our tech provides ships and workboats the intelligence to operate autonomously and remotely, and which increases safety for maritime crews, and radically improves operator productivity.
www.sea-machines.com
Job Summary
We're looking for a hands-on, safety-focused Vessel Operator to support the operation, testing, and deployment of cutting-edge autonomous vessels. This role combines traditional seamanship with advanced marine technology, requiring someone who is comfortable operating vessels manually while supporting autonomous system testing, troubleshooting, and continuous product development.
You'll work closely with engineering, field operations, and customers to ensure safe, efficient, and successful vessel operations both on and off the water.
Key Responsibilities
  • Safely operate company vessels during testing, demonstrations, customer trials, and training.
  • Conduct pre-departure inspections and ensure vessels are ready for operation.
  • Monitor vessel systems, propulsion, navigation equipment, and autonomous control systems during operations.
  • Execute test plans and operational procedures while collecting accurate test data.
  • Assist engineers with integration, commissioning, and validation of new hardware and software.
  • Identify, troubleshoot, and document vessel or system issues encountered during operations.
  • Support launch, recovery, transport, and storage of vessels and equipment.
  • Coordinate with regulatory agencies, marinas, ports, and support vessels when required.
  • Ensure compliance with all USCG regulations and company safety procedures.
  • Assist with customer demonstrations, training events, and field deployments.
  • Travel domestically and internationally to support vessel operations and customer projects.

Qualifications and Skills
Required
  • USCG Merchant Mariner Credential
  • 3+ years operating commercial or government vessels
  • Strong knowledge of navigation, seamanship, COLREGS, and marine safety
  • Experience operating vessels in varying weather and sea conditions
  • Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot marine systems
  • Comfortable using marine electronics including GPS, radar, AIS, and chart plotters
  • Excellent communication and documentation skills
  • Valid passport and willingness to travel up to 40%
Job Type:
Full-time, hybrid in-office position in a fast-paced and collaborative work environment with travel opportunities.
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Vision insurance

Apply