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Overboard Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Port Houston

Tradesman III Marine Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

Provide underway watch stations as lookout, man-overboard, marine fire and casualty response * Ability to temporarily take over throttle and engines under captain's supervision to help with ...

CARDINAL POINT CAPTAINS INC

Vessel Captain

Galveston, TX · On-site

$34 - $43/hr

... overboard, and abandon ship drills, assist in inspecting and repair or replace as needed safety equipment and comply with safety stand-downs and corrective actions. 7. If requested, assist in ...

All JobsOverboard JobsOverboard Jobs in Texas

Overboard information

See Texas salary details

$9

$28

$69

How much do overboard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for overboard in Texas is $28.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $38.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an overboard?

An Overboard job typically refers to a role involving tasks related to marine or water-based environments, such as cruise ships, fishing vessels, or offshore platforms. It may include responsibilities like maintenance, safety checks, emergency response, or passenger assistance. Depending on the industry, the job can require physical endurance, maritime certifications, and adherence to strict safety protocols.

What are overboard jobs?

The term 'Overboard' is not a standard job title in most industries. It may refer to someone who has gone 'overboard' in a literal sense, such as falling off a ship, or be used metaphorically. If you meant a specific job related to maritime safety or rescue operations, those positions are typically called 'rescue swimmer,' 'lifeguard,' or 'maritime safety officer.' Please clarify the job context or check for a possible typo to get more accurate information.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an overboard operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Overboard operator, you need a solid understanding of marine operations, safety procedures, and relevant certifications such as STCW. Familiarity with shipboard equipment, emergency systems, and communication tools is typically required. Attention to detail, quick decision-making, and strong teamwork skills are essential for handling high-pressure situations. These skills ensure the safety and efficiency of overboard operations, protecting crew and vessel integrity.

What is the difference between Overboard vs Deckhand?

AspectOverboardDeckhand
Required CredentialsBasic safety training, maritime certificationsSTCW certification, safety training
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, outdoor, physically demandingOnboard ships, outdoor, physically demanding
Industry UsageMaritime, shipping, cruise linesMaritime, shipping, cruise lines

Overboard and Deckhand roles both operate in maritime environments, requiring safety certifications and physical work onboard ships. While Overboard may refer to a specific incident or role related to rescue, Deckhands are crew members responsible for maintenance, handling cargo, and safety tasks. Both positions are essential in the maritime industry, with overlapping credentials and work settings.

What are popular job titles related to Overboard jobs in Texas?

For Overboard jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Overboard jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Overboard jobs in Texas are:

Overboard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Overboard job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,911 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Lead Deckhand / Vessel Operator (USCG Master I & II)

AtOrchard LLC

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description:

Join @Orchard and become the operational backbone of a critical national mission with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC). This role provides essential, hands-on support aboard a NOAA research vessel, enabling scientific surveys that are fundamental to managing and sustaining our nation’s living marine resources. Your professional seamanship, technical skills, and leadership on deck ensure the safety and success of every research cruise, making science possible.


@Orchard is seeking an experienced and licensed Lead Deckhand / Vessel Operator to support a 72’ NOAA research vessel. This is a hands-on role for a seasoned mariner who excels in deck operations, vessel maintenance, and navigational support. You will be responsible for everything from deploying and repairing complex trawl gear to maintaining the ship's engine and standing watch in the wheelhouse. We are hiring for two levels of experience (Level I and Level II) based on qualifications.

This position requires a professional with a broad skillset, commitment to safety, and the ability to work effectively as part of a small, dedicated team in a dynamic at-sea environment.


Key Responsibilities

Your duties will encompass all aspects of vessel operations, maintenance, and safety.

Deck Operations & Gear Management

  • Safely and efficiently manage all deck operations while underway.
  • Lead the deployment and retrieval of sampling gear, including bottom/midwater trawls, dredges, probes, and CTDs.
  • Perform expert maintenance and repair on fishing trawls and other sampling gear, with a strong focus on fishing net repair and mending.
  • Operate all deck equipment, including articulating cranes, net reels, trawl winches, and anchor windlasses.
  • Assist with docking exercises, line handling, and tying various rope knots.

Vessel Systems & Maintenance

  • Assist with and independently operate, maintain, and repair all vessel systems as needed, including the Caterpillar 3406 main engine, Isuzu diesel generators, propulsion gear, and hydraulic systems.
  • Assist in maintaining the vessel's electrical and plumbing systems as required.
  • Repair trawl gear and hydraulic equipment as necessary while underway.

Navigation & Watchkeeping

  • Perform wheelhouse and anchor watches as requested by the Officer in Charge (OIC).
  • Utilize all wheelhouse instruments and resources—including charts, chart plotters, GPS, fathometers, and RADAR—to safely navigate the vessel.

Safety & General Shipboard Duties

  • Abide by and enforce all statutory, safety, and operational standards for ships and seamen.
  • In emergencies (fire, flooding, collision, man overboard), obey the lawful orders of the OIC.
  • Assist in the loading and unloading of the ship’s stores, supplies, and scientific gear.
  • Assist with meal preparation and routine housekeeping chores.
  • Effectively communicate and work as a crucial member of the vessel team.
Requirements:

Experience Level (One of the following is required):

  • Level I: A minimum of three (3) years of hands-on trawling experience. This must include operating hydraulic winches and cranes, deploying and retrieving bottom or midwater trawls, rigging trawl equipment, and net repair/mending.
  • Level II: A minimum of six (6) years of hands-on trawling experience. This must include operating hydraulic winches and cranes, deploying and retrieving bottom or midwater trawls, rigging trawl equipment, and net repair/mending.

Licenses & Certifications:

  • A valid USCG 100 Gross Ton Master’s License (or higher).
  • Must meet all training and experience requirements set by NOAA Small Boat Policy (NAO 217-103) for a Small Research Vessel Operator.
  • A current and valid certification in CPR/First Aid/AED.

Technical Skills & Knowledge:

  • Possess a strong combination of experience and/or training in one or more of the following areas: diesel mechanics, electronics/wiring, plumbing, deck maintenance, carpentry, metalworking, and hydraulics.

Essential Personal & Physical Requirements:

  • Must possess the physical fitness and stamina necessary for performing demanding duties in various weather conditions, often for long hours.
  • Must exhibit a positive, calm, and amiable demeanor suitable for close living quarters and challenging situations.
  • You must successfully pass a pre-employment drug test and a comprehensive background check.
  • Must be accessible to vessel homeports in Falmouth, MA; Pocasset, MA; and Narragansett, RI.

If you are a motivated individual with a passion for continuing your work with NOAA, we want to hear from you!


@Orchard is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, or other protected characteristics.


To learn more about our other exciting opportunities, visit our Jobs Page at www.atorchard.com.