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Maritime Operations Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Test Engineer, Maritime

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$112K - $149K/yr

Support day-to-day test operations for our products, platforms, or sub-assemblies, including ... Support hands-on troubleshooting, repair, operation, and maintenance of surface maritime platforms ...

Test Engineer, Maritime

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Support day‑to‑day test operations for our products, platforms, or sub‑assemblies, including conducting pre‑mission testing, launch and recovery, vehicle tasking, and data analysis both ...

Test Engineer, Maritime

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Support day-to-day test operations for our products, platforms, or sub-assemblies, including ... Support hands-on troubleshooting, repair, operation, and maintenance of surface maritime platforms ...

Showing results 21-40

Maritime Operations information

See California salary details

$9

$23

$48

How much do maritime operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for maritime operations in California is $23.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are maritime operations?

Maritime Operations refer to the management and coordination of activities that take place on or around bodies of water, such as oceans, seas, and large lakes. These operations can include shipping, naval exercises, port management, safety and security enforcement, cargo handling, and offshore resource exploration. Professionals in this field ensure the safe and efficient movement of vessels, compliance with maritime laws, and the protection of marine environments. Maritime operations play a crucial role in global trade and security.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in maritime operations?

To thrive in Maritime Operations, you need a solid understanding of maritime laws, navigation, logistics, and safety protocols, typically supported by relevant maritime certifications or a degree in maritime studies. Familiarity with vessel management systems, navigation software, and compliance platforms is essential. Strong decision-making, clear communication, and teamwork skills help individuals excel in high-pressure, dynamic environments. These capabilities ensure efficient, safe, and compliant maritime operations, minimizing risks and optimizing vessel performance.

What are some common challenges faced in maritime operations and how can professionals overcome them?

Maritime Operations professionals often encounter challenges such as coordinating between multiple teams (port authorities, logistics, and onboard crew), adapting to rapidly changing weather and sea conditions, and ensuring compliance with international safety and environmental regulations. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and staying current with regulatory updates are key to overcoming these obstacles. Utilizing advanced technology and participating in regular training can also help streamline operations and improve overall efficiency in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Maritime Operations vs Marine Logistics Coordinator?

AspectMaritime OperationsMarine Logistics Coordinator
Required CredentialsSTCW certifications, maritime safety trainingLogistics and supply chain certifications, maritime knowledge
Work EnvironmentShips, ports, maritime facilitiesOffices, ports, shipping yards
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, maritime agenciesLogistics firms, shipping companies

Maritime Operations focuses on managing ship movements, safety, and compliance at sea, while Marine Logistics Coordinators handle the planning and coordination of cargo, supplies, and shipping schedules. Both roles require maritime knowledge but differ in daily tasks and work environments.

What does a maritime operations officer do?

A maritime operations officer manages and coordinates activities related to the safe and efficient movement of ships and cargo. They oversee vessel scheduling, compliance with safety regulations, and communication between ships and port authorities, often using navigation and communication tools. The role requires strong organizational skills and knowledge of maritime laws and procedures.

What are the most commonly searched types of Maritime Operations jobs in California?

The most popular types of Maritime Operations jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Maritime Operations jobs in California?

For Maritime Operations jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Maritime Operations jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Maritime Operations jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Maritime Operations jobs?

Cities in California with the most Maritime Operations job openings:

Infographic showing various Maritime Operations job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,581 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Mission Operations Specialist, Training

NightDragon Acquisition Corp.

San Diego, CA • On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing defense autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations for the Department of Defense (DoD) through autonomous and intelligent platforms.
Job Summary
Saronic is seeking a Mission Operations Trainer to design, develop, and deliver advanced training programs in support of our autonomous systems mission sets. This role blends curriculum development, operational training, and performance assessment to ensure mission readiness across internal teams, contracted customers, and DoD partners.
You will be responsible for both creating and executing hands-on training initiatives that encompass mission planning, ASV (Autonomous Surface Vessel) operations, data analysis, and system maintenance procedures. This role also requires contributing to team readiness, developing continued professional development programs within the department, driving performance standards, and ensuring all mission operations personnel are prepared to operate all Saronic owned and operated ASVs.
Responsibilities
  • Training & Curriculum Development
  • Develop comprehensive training programs focused on ASV operations, mission planning, environmental risk mitigation, and maintenance.
  • Deliver both classroom-based and on the water instruction to DoD partners and internal teams.
  • Establish and maintain training standards, including learning objectives, assessments, and certifications.
  • Conduct training needs analysis to ensure mission-critical skill gaps are addressed.
  • Training Assessments & Standard Operating Procedures
  • Support or lead assessment to ensure all curriculum and training programs are up to standard and inline with the most up to date organizational procedures
  • Contribute to the design and administration of all Standard Operating Procedures for all Saronic ASVs.
  • Partner with leadership to develop progression models and readiness benchmarks.
  • Operational Mission Support and Development
  • Assist in the planning and execution of real-world ASV missions, ensuring training programs mirror operational realities.
  • Monitor mission execution and gather data for performance debriefs and improvement cycles.
  • Maintain situational awareness of evolving maritime environments and ensure training reflects current challenges and technologies.
  • Assist and lead the development of new Standard Operating Procedures for Operational Readiness of ASV Operators within the department.
  • Stakeholder Collaboration
  • Coordinate with internal engineering teams, program leads, and DoD liaisons to align training content with evolving system capabilities.
  • Provide post-training evaluations and feedback to stakeholders and development teams for continuous improvement.
Role Requirements
  • Demonstrated success in project coordination and leadership in current role.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with team members, stakeholders, and senior management.
  • Demonstrated problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to addressing challenges.
  • Strong leadership qualities, including the ability to motivate and inspire team members.
  • Job requires up to 50% travel.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in business, engineering, maritime studies, or equivalent experience in a related field is preferred
  • Experience in maritime operations, particularly with autonomous or unmanned systems is a plus
  • Proficiency in mission planning software, GIS tools, and maritime navigation systems
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make quick decisions under pressure
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams
  • Prior SOF experience working with the DoD or other government agencies is a plus
  • Proven experience in curriculum development and instructional delivery in technical or operational environments.
  • Background in assessment/selection (e.g., military training pipelines, SOF assessments, instructional design for performance evaluation preferred).
Physical Demands
  • Ability to certify as “fit for work” by demonstrating ability to swim and tread water
  • Frequently and repetitively, lift, push and carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Will be exposed to marine environments, including sun, wind, rain, cold, and saltwater spray, often for extended periods
  • Must be able to operate in daylight, low-light, and night conditions using marine navigation systems and visual cues
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work i.e. stoop, lay, bend, reach, squat, kneel, crouch, twist and crawl for extended periods of time including up to 12 hours/day
  • Climb and maintain balance on ladders, platforms, or other high structures
  • Ability to stand and walk for up to 10 hours a day, including over varied and uneven terrain
  • Climb and maintain balance on ladders, scaffolding or other high structures
  • Ability to work in a hot and humid environment and follow safe practices to stay hydrated
  • Hearing ability sufficient to detect alarms, verbal instructions, and workplace hazards in a high-noise environment.
  • Must be able to work in a shipyard environment, including indoor fabrication shops, onboard vessels under construction, and outdoor areas exposed to changing weather conditions.
  • Wear Personal Protective Equipment, including but not limited to: safety glasses, safety shoes, hard hat and adhering to prescribed safety rules and guidelines
Benefits
  • Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
  • Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
  • Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care
  • Saronic pays 99% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
  • Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays
  • Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents
  • Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
  • Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan
  • Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success
  • Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
  • Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office
This role requires access to export-controlled information or items that require “U.S. Person” status. As defined by U.S. law, individuals who are any one of the following are considered to be a “U.S. Person”: (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal permanent residents (a.k.a. green card holders), and (3) certain protected classes of asylees and refugees, as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
Saronic does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits.
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