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Radio Operator Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

FCC Radio Operator's License is required. * Valid Driver's license is required. Preferred Qualifications: * High school Diploma or GED is preferred. * ARPA is preferred.

Zodiac Captain

Sitka, AK · On-site

$28 - $37/hr

Summary for Zodiac Captain Requires a USCG Master's license (25-ton minimum) and an FCC Marine Radio Operator's Permit (MROP). Prior experience in the marine tourism industry, and particularly on ...

Captain

Juneau, AK · On-site

$30 - $39/hr

Required FCC Marine Radio Operators Permit (MROP). Zodiac Captain Requirements for Captain * Required minimum 25-ton license. * Required FCC Marine Radio Operators Permit (MROP). Preferred ...

Captain

Ketchikan, AK · On-site

$30 - $39/hr

Required FCC Marine Radio Operators Permit (MROP). Zodiac Captain Requirements for Captain * Required minimum 25-ton license. * Required FCC Marine Radio Operators Permit (MROP). Preferred ...

Captain

Sitka, AK · On-site

$30 - $39/hr

Required FCC Marine Radio Operators Permit (MROP). Zodiac Captain Requirements for Captain * Required minimum 25-ton license. * Required FCC Marine Radio Operators Permit (MROP). Preferred ...

Machine Operator I

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$22.41/hr

Assists Operators II & III on packaging and end-of-line work, and as needed * Other duties as ... Radio, Calculator, Measuring Devices * Hand tools * Computer (Shop Floor and ERP)

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Radio Operator information

See Alaska salary details

$13

$25

$42

How much do radio operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for radio operator in Alaska is $25.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.65 and $28.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get into radio with no experience?

To become a radio operator with no experience, start by learning basic radio communication procedures and relevant regulations. Obtain entry-level certifications such as the FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License if applicable, and seek internships or volunteer opportunities to gain practical skills in radio operation and maintenance.

What are some common challenges Radio Operators face when working in remote or field environments?

Radio Operators working in remote or field environments often encounter challenges such as maintaining clear communication in areas with limited signal coverage, operating equipment under harsh weather conditions, and adapting to rapidly changing situations. They must be skilled at troubleshooting technical issues quickly to minimize communication downtime. Additionally, working in these settings often requires close collaboration with field teams and the ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.

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

AspectRadio OperatorMarine Radio Operator
CertificationsFCC General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL) or equivalentMarine Radio Operator Permit (MROP) or GROL
Work EnvironmentVarious industries including aviation, emergency services, broadcastingMaritime vessels, ports, and offshore platforms
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, broadcasters, private companiesShipping companies, maritime authorities, offshore oil rigs

Both roles involve radio communication skills and certifications like the GROL. However, Marine Radio Operators specifically focus on maritime communication, working primarily on ships and offshore platforms, while general Radio Operators work across diverse industries. The certifications overlap, but Marine Radio Operators require additional maritime-specific permits. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their interests and credentials.

Do radio operators still exist?

Radio operators still exist as a profession, particularly in maritime, aviation, military, and emergency services, where they manage radio communications using specialized equipment. While technology has advanced, skilled radio operators are still needed for certain roles, and certifications such as FCC licenses are often required.

How do you become a radio operator?

To become a radio operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training in radio communications. Many positions require certification from organizations like the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or equivalent, and proficiency with radio equipment and communication protocols is essential.

What are radio operators?

Radio operators are professionals responsible for transmitting and receiving communications using radio equipment. They play a crucial role in ensuring clear and reliable communication in various fields such as maritime, aviation, emergency services, and the military. Their duties often include monitoring frequencies, relaying messages, maintaining equipment, and following strict communication protocols. Radio operators must be skilled in using different types of radio systems and may need to obtain licenses depending on their industry and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Radio Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Radio Operator, you need a solid understanding of radio communication protocols, signal operations, and equipment maintenance, often supported by relevant technical training or military certifications. Familiarity with radio transmission equipment, encryption systems, and communication software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure reliable, secure, and effective communication, which is critical for safety and operational success in both civilian and military contexts.
What are popular job titles related to Radio Operator jobs in Alaska? For Radio Operator jobs in Alaska, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Radio Operator jobs in Alaska look for? The top searched job categories for Radio Operator jobs in Alaska are:
What cities in Alaska are hiring for Radio Operator jobs? Cities in Alaska with the most Radio Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Radio Operator job openings in Alaska as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,875 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Join one of our virtual information sessions to learn more about working at UnCruise   - register here  
CREW PERKS
  • Heath care benefits (medical, dental, vision)
  • 401k with employer match (qualifications required)
  • Credential reimbursement (qualifications required)
  • Travel provided to and from the vessel
  • Rotation schedule

JOB SUMMARY

The Chief Mate supervises, trains, and coordinates activities of the deck force and is responsible for assisting with the vessel's piloting, navigation, safety, security, first aid, cleanliness, and small boat operations. The Chief Mate reports to the Master of the vessel. 

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience operating port-to-port in Southeast Alaska, preferred. 
  • At least 360 sea days of Mate experience on passenger-carrying vessels, including supervisory responsibility and social interaction with guests.
  • Excellent crisis management skills; able to act quickly with confidence while exercising sound judgment.
  • Strong time management skills: able to handle multiple tasks, set priorities, and meet deadlines.
  • Personal computer experience: MS Windows applications with extensive use of MS Word and MS Excel.
  • Communicate effectively in both one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees.
  • Excellent written English language skills, with the ability to prepare documents and reports in a timely manner. 
  • Able to perform voyage planning and navigational calculations as well as lifting and rigging calculations appropriate to vessel operations.
  • Able to problem solve and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Able to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form. 

Required Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

  • USCG 100T Master License (1)  
  • Radar Observer Unlimited
  • FCC Marine Radio Operator's Permit
  • Valid TWIC 
  • Advanced Medical Training 
  • CPR / First Aid / AED
  • Medical Certificate
  • Government ID (REAL ID compliant) or Passport
  1. Near Coastal License required for all Alaska and Safari Explorer Hawaii itineraries. Oceans license required for Safari Explorer Hawaii Repo

Company Provided:

  • Drug/Alcohol Test Specimen Collector

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

  • Train and supervise deck team in docking, anchoring, watch duties, safety, routine ship and inflatable maintenance, cleaning and maintaining deck, and superstructure.  
  • Direct the deck team and handle communications between bridge, crew, and dock personnel during docking procedures.
  • Evaluate and document the performance of the deck team, reward and discipline employees, address complaints and resolve problems.
  • Maintain professional demeanor with guests, crew, staff, agents, officials, and the public. Participate in guest activities as directed by the Captain.
  • Assume command of the ship in the event the Captain becomes incapacitated.
  • Inspect the vessel for overall cleanliness, including engine room, deck areas, crew quarters, windows, and exterior hull.
  • Maintain deck supply inventories and requisitions.
  • Act as vessel security officer.
  • Prepare vessel for and attend all U.S. Coast Guard annual dry docks and inspections.
  • Review and update watch and duty work lists.
  • Assist the Master in communicating and enforcing all company policies and procedures. 

Watch Duty:

  • Assume responsibility for bridge navigation and deck watch during specified periods. Determine geographical position of the ship, using all available means such as GPS, radar ranges, visual observations, depth sounders, etc.
  • Make necessary entries in navigation and radio logs.
  • Handle the vessel (as directed by the Captain) in docking, anchoring, piloting, en route, in close quarters and open sea conditions.
  • Navigate vessel to ensure avoidance of marine hazards such as reefs, outlying shoals, shallow waters, etc. using aids to navigation such as lights, lighthouses, and buoys.

Small Boat Operations:

  • Drive inflatable boats as needed.
  • Assist with loading guests, staff, and crew in and out of inflatable boats.

Safety and Security:

  • Follow company safety and pollution prevention policies and procedures and request supervisory assistance/guidance when necessary.
  • Direct crew in emergency drills. Conduct onboard safety training and drills as directed by the Captain, including fire, abandon ship, man overboard, flooding and medical emergencies.
  • Perform gangway watch as directed by the duty schedule.
  • Act as vessel Medical Officer; maintain first aid kits and medical supplies on board as well as filling out all guest, crew and staff injury/illness reports. Assist Captain with treating injured/ill guests and crew. Ensure proper handling and disposal of biohazards. Contact emergency services when required.
  • Maintain and administer vessel Preventive Maintenance Plan and Safety Training Program.
  • Oversee vessel hazard communications program and related training, including Material Safety Data Sheets and utilization of personal protective equipment.
  • Participate in shore side training as required by the company.  
  • Ensure compliance with the company Safety Management System including Emergency Response Activities; report non-conformities to vessel master and appropriate shore-side personnel.

WORK SCHEDULE

Daily 12-hour shifts are comprised of approximately two 4-hour watches, plus 4 hours of administrative and supervisory activities. However, each workday may vary depending on overall needs of the vessel and/or vessel personnel. This position may require overnight and/or night shift hours.

ONBOARD ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / EMPLOYMENT COMPLIANCE

  • Living Conditions - Crew live in close quarters with 4 to 8 people of all genders per room depending on the vessel. Having your own room is not an option due to limited berthing.
  • Length of Work Shift - Physically able to work 12 hours per day, 7 days a week for 6 to 8 weeks at a time. Rotations off the vessel are usually 2 to 3 weeks.
  • Mobility - Frequent bending, reaching, twisting, kneeling, crawling, and pushing/pulling. Must ascend and descend stairs and ladders, sometimes while carrying tools or objects. Able to stand or sit for long periods of time.
  • Handling & Strength - Able to handle, lift, and lower objects totaling 50 pounds between the ground/deck level to a height of about 4 to 6 feet, and able to repeat these movements. Able to carry these objects up to 100 feet continuously for 20 minutes.
  • Environmental Conditions - Able to work in all weather conditions, around loud noise, in small spaces, and fit through a 28-inch wide hatch.
  • DOT Drug Testing - In compliance with USCG regulations, must pass a pre-employment drug test and additional in-season testing per federal guidelines.
  • Allergens - This position requires working with and/or being around raw and cooked shellfish, cleaning chemicals and other known allergens.
  • Medical Review - A medical review is required. Must be medically fit to work onboard for safety and compliance.

BASE PAY

  • Summer season, wage range is based on vessel placement.