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Radar Observer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CNIC Careers

MOTOR VESSEL CAPTAIN

Everett, WA

$35.90/hr

Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Mate of Towing Vessels-Inland with Unlimited Radar Observer or a minimum Merchant Mariner Credential endorsed as Mate of Self-Propelled ...

Dann Marine Towing

Mate

Must possess a valid radar observer license. * Valid MMC, Coast Guard Medical Certificate & TWIC

Tomorrow.io

Radar Engineer

Golden, CO · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

We are building and operating a weather observation constellation powered by internally developed software-defined radars - transforming how atmospheric data is captured and used worldwide. We're ...

Tomorrow.io

Radar Engineer

Golden, CO · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

We are building and operating a weather observation constellation powered by internally developed softwaredefined radars - transforming how atmospheric data is captured and used worldwide. We're ...

HOLDEN MARINE TOWING INC

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Licensed Tug Operator

Callahan, FL · On-site

$48.48/hr

Radar Observer * STCW certification (if needed) * Valid driver's license * Pass USCG 719k physical examination * Pass pre-employment drug screening * Proficient computer skills * Ability to lift and ...

HOLDEN MARINE TOWING INC

Be Seen First

Licensed Tug Operator

Callahan, FL · On-site

$48.48/hr

Radar Observer * STCW certification (if needed) * Valid driver's license * Pass USCG 719k physical examination * Pass pre-employment drug screening * Proficient computer skills * Ability to lift and ...

Array Labs

Radar Algorithms Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$150K - $300K/yr

... observation satellites. Our fleet will deliver unprecedented levels of accuracy, coverage, and ... About the Job As a Radar Algorithms Engineer you will develop, deploy, and scale innovative 3D ...

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Radar Observer information

See salary details

$5

$34

$41

How much do radar observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for radar observer in the United States is $34.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $40.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a radar observer?

Radar Observers are trained professionals who operate radar equipment to monitor, detect, and track objects such as ships or aircraft. They interpret radar data to provide important information about the position, speed, and movement of these objects, often to aid in navigation or ensure safety at sea or in the air. Radar Observers play a crucial role in maritime and aviation operations, helping to prevent collisions and assist in search and rescue missions. Their expertise is essential for maintaining situational awareness in environments where visibility may be limited.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a radar observer?

To thrive as a Radar Observer, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of radar systems, often supported by specialized military or maritime training and relevant certifications. Familiarity with radar consoles, tracking software, and navigation systems is typically required. Excellent communication, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure accurate detection, tracking, and reporting of targets for safety and operational effectiveness.

What are some common challenges radar observers face during their shifts, and how can they effectively manage them?

Radar Observers often contend with high-pressure situations, particularly when monitoring dense maritime or airspace traffic or during adverse weather conditions. Maintaining concentration for extended periods and accurately interpreting radar data are essential, as errors can have significant safety implications. Effective time management, regular communication with team members, and ongoing training in radar technology and protocols help observers handle these challenges and ensure operational safety.

What is the difference between Radar Observer vs Marine Radio Operator?

AspectRadar ObserverMarine Radio Operator
Required CertificationsRadar operation certification, safety trainingMarine radio license, communication training
Work EnvironmentMaritime, coastal, or offshore vesselsShips, ports, maritime communication centers
Industry UsageNavigation, surveillance, maritime safetyShip communication, distress signaling, coordination

Both Radar Observers and Marine Radio Operators work in maritime environments, often on ships or offshore platforms. Radar Observers focus on navigation and surveillance using radar systems, requiring specific radar operation certifications. Marine Radio Operators handle communication and distress signaling, needing a marine radio license. While their roles differ, both are essential for maritime safety and often work together onboard vessels or in maritime communication centers.

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Radar Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Radar Observer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,187 per year, or $34.7 per hour.

MOTOR VESSEL CAPTAIN

CNIC Careers

Everett, WA

$35.90/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

This is a public notice flyer to notify interested applicants of anticipated vacancies. Applications will not be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants must follow the directions in the "How to Apply" section of this flyer to be considered. There may or may not be actual vacancies filled from this flyer. Notice of Result letters will not be sent to applicants who respond to this flyer.
Locations:
  • Everett, Washington
  • Bangor, Washington
  • Bremerton, Washington
Qualifications:This job has a screen-out element which will be used to determine minimum eligibility for this job. Applicants who do not receive a minimum of two points on the screen-out element(s) will be found ineligible. The Screen-out Element for this position is: THE ABILITY TO DO THE WORK OF THE POSITION WITHOUT MORE THAN NORMAL SUPERVISION. Your resume must show that you have the ability to perform common tasks including:
1) Navigating and maneuvering a large yard tugboat alongside vessels to assist in berthing;
2) Supervising the deck crew in the operation and general upkeep of the tug;
3) Operating radar and radio equipment on a tug;
4) Performing tug make-up, line handling, towing, docking, undocking, anchoring, and mooring of a tug
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/federal-wage-system-qualifications/#url=WG-5700
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
You will be required to possess and maintain a minimum of U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Mate of Towing Vessels-Inland with Unlimited Radar Observer or a minimum Merchant Mariner Credential endorsed as Mate of Self-Propelled vessels of less than 500 Gross Register Tons (GRT) upon Inland waters with Unlimited Radar Observer.Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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