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Maritime Vessel Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lynker Corporation

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$45K - $90K/yr

Responsibilities Duties of the Uncrewed Vessel Operator will include, but not be limited to, the ... Experience with maritime situational awareness using AIS,FLIR, ECDIS, LiDAR, and RADAR. • ...

Lynker Corporation

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$45K - $90K/yr

Duties of the Uncrewed Vessel Operator will include, but not be limited to, the following: The ... Experience with operating satellite, cellular, and RF telemetry systems Experience with maritime ...

Phoenix Bulk Carriers US

Vessel Operator

Newport, RI

Description The Role The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree in Maritime Transportation, Logistics, Business, Nautical Science, or related field who is confident in an international setting and ...

Republic Services

Vessel Operator I

Seattle, WA

$30.08/hr

Minimum 1 year related experience in the maritime industry. * Must have a valid Driver's License ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Vessel Operator I

Seattle, WA · On-site

$30.08/hr

Minimum 1 year related experience in the maritime industry. * Must have a valid Driver's License ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Vessel Operator I

Seattle, WA · On-site

$30.08/hr

Minimum 1 year related experience in the maritime industry. * Must have a valid Driver's License ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

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Maritime Vessel Operator information

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How much do maritime vessel operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for maritime vessel 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.

What does a maritime vessel operator do?

A Maritime Vessel Operator is responsible for overseeing the daily operations and logistics of ships and other marine vessels. Their duties include planning and coordinating routes, ensuring compliance with international maritime regulations, managing cargo and crew schedules, and communicating with port authorities. They play a crucial role in ensuring safe, efficient, and timely transport of goods and passengers by sea. The job requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of maritime laws and procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a maritime vessel operator?

To thrive as a Maritime Vessel Operator, you need in-depth knowledge of maritime regulations, navigation, and vessel operations, typically supported by a valid maritime license or certification such as STCW. Familiarity with navigation systems (like ECDIS), radio communication equipment, and maritime safety management systems is essential. Strong decision-making, situational awareness, and teamwork skills help manage complex situations and ensure crew safety. These competencies are crucial for ensuring efficient vessel operations, regulatory compliance, and safe navigation at sea.

What are some of the typical daily challenges a maritime vessel operator faces when coordinating vessel schedules and logistics?

Maritime Vessel Operators often contend with challenges such as last-minute changes in cargo availability, shifting weather conditions, and port congestion, all of which can disrupt carefully planned schedules. Effective communication and flexibility are essential, as operators must coordinate with port authorities, shipping agents, and crew members to adapt plans quickly. Additionally, ensuring compliance with international maritime regulations and safety standards adds another layer of complexity to daily responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Maritime Vessel Operator jobs?

For Maritime Vessel Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Maritime Vessel Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,098 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Maritime Vessel Operations

Tiverton, RI

Vatn Systems
Internet and IT • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Vatn Systemsexternal

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

The Maritime Vessel Operations position provides hands-on support for UAV testing and waterfront facility operations. This role is responsible for operating support vessels between 20' and 74', assisting test engineers during maritime UAV operations and logistics across the waterfront site. The ideal candidate is comfortable working on the water, mechanically inclined, and able to support dynamic test environments.

Key Responsibilities
  • Safely operate small and larger vessels up to 74' (RHIBs and larger work boats) to support UAV testing and maritime operations (plus if comfortable operating larger support vessels)
  • Transport personnel, equipment, and UAV's between testing facility and test locations
  • Assist test engineers with setup, launch, recovery, and troubleshooting of UAV systems
  • Provide on-water safety oversight during testing activities
  • Support waterfront logistics, including staging equipment, fueling, and inventory coordination
  • Perform basic vessel maintenance and pre-/post-operation checks
  • Maintain operational readiness of docks and support equipment
  • Keep accurate logs of vessel usage, fuel, and operational activities
  • Assist with general facility upkeep and maritime support tasks as needed
Required Qualifications
  • Experience operating small boats in coastal or harbor environments
  • Valid boating license or certification (e.g., USCG Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV) preferred or equivalent)
  • Strong understanding of maritime safety practices and navigation rules
  • Ability to lift and move equipment (50+ lbs) and work in outdoor marine conditions
  • Basic mechanical aptitude and comfort with tools and equipment
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience supporting test operations, field engineering, or R&D environments
  • Familiarity with UAV systems or marine robotics
  • Marine safety certifications (e.g., First Aid/CPR, STCW Basic Training)
  • Experience with trailering, launching, and recovering vessels
  • Forklift or rigging experience
Key Competencies
  • Reliability and safety-first mindset
  • Ability to adapt in fast-paced, changing test environments
  • Strong situational awareness on the water
  • Hands-on problem solving and initiative
Working Conditions
  • Outdoor, waterfront-based role with regular on-water operations
  • Exposure to varying weather and sea conditions
  • Occasional early mornings, extended days, or weekend work depending on test schedules

Vatn is an equal opportunity employer. 

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