ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Ship Radar Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Full Scope

Navy AEGIS Combat System Engineer

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

... Shipboard Radar Systems and other weapon and combat systems. Proven experience operating, maintaining, troubleshooting and testing shipboard electronic systems is a must. Ideal candidate will have ...

Full Scope

Navy AEGIS Combat System Engineer

Escondido, CA

$109K - $150K/yr

... Shipboard Radar Systems and other weapon and combat systems. Proven experience operating, maintaining, troubleshooting and testing shipboard electronic systems is a must. Ideal candidate will have ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsShip Radar Operator Jobs

Ship Radar Operator information

See salary details

$12

$24

$35

How much do ship radar operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship radar operator in the United States is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Ship Radar Operator vs Ship Navigation Officer?

AspectShip Radar OperatorShip Navigation Officer
CredentialsCertifications in radar operation, maritime safetyMaritime navigation certifications, officer licenses
Work EnvironmentBridge, radar room, maritime vesselsBridge, navigation stations, ships
Industry UsageMaritime shipping, naval vesselsCommercial shipping, cruise ships, naval ships
Primary FocusOperating and monitoring radar systemsPlanning routes, navigation, safety oversight

The Ship Radar Operator primarily focuses on operating radar systems to monitor surroundings and ensure safety. In contrast, the Ship Navigation Officer is responsible for planning routes, navigation, and overall vessel safety. While both roles work on ships and require maritime certifications, the Radar Operator specializes in radar technology, whereas the Navigation Officer oversees navigation and safety procedures.

What are Ship Radar Operators?

Ship Radar Operators are professionals responsible for monitoring and interpreting radar systems on board ships to ensure safe navigation and avoid collisions. They track the position, speed, and movement of nearby vessels, landmasses, and obstacles, especially in poor visibility conditions. Their role is critical for maritime safety, as they provide timely information to the ship's captain and crew. Ship Radar Operators often work in collaboration with navigators and other bridge personnel to make informed navigational decisions.

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

To thrive as a Ship Radar Operator, you need a solid understanding of maritime navigation, radar principles, and safety protocols, often supported by relevant maritime certifications. Familiarity with radar systems, Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA), and electronic chart systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, situational awareness, and effective communication skills help operators interpret data accurately and relay information clearly to the bridge team. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring navigational safety, preventing collisions, and maintaining efficient ship operations.

What are some common challenges Ship Radar Operators face while monitoring maritime traffic?

Ship Radar Operators often encounter challenges such as adverse weather conditions, high traffic density, and equipment malfunctions. These factors can make it difficult to accurately interpret radar data and maintain constant vigilance. Operators must remain alert to quickly identify potential hazards, communicate effectively with the bridge team, and adapt to rapidly changing situations on the water. Continuous training and strong teamwork are essential to overcoming these obstacles and ensuring safe navigation.
Infographic showing various Ship Radar Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,869 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Senior Radar Program Manager

Senior Radar Program Manager

Decision Technologies, Inc.

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Work for a dynamic company specializing in technical support services and engineering consultancy. Decision Technologies, Inc. has extensive experience developing RF Systems and Missile Sensors, production transition, quality and reliability assessment, test and evaluation, and logistics support. We match our capabilities to the needs of our customers. Join an experienced team that provides exceptional support and leadership in our core competencies. Decision Technologies offers employees a competitive salary and benefits package, 401K, Flexible Spending Accounts, and Short and Long-Term Disability. As a growing company, we provide advancement opportunities and Tuition Reimbursement.
We are seeking a qualified Senior Radar Program Manager in Virginia Beach, VA. This position is not eligible for hybrid or remote work situations. This is a 100% on-site, in-office position.
YOU MUST HAVE AN ACTIVE DOD SECRET CLEARANCE / TOP SECRET PREFERRED
Position Description:
The selectee will perform as the Decision Technologies Senior Program Manager for a US Navy Surveillance and Advanced Radars Engineering and Logistics contract. In the accomplishment of this task, the selectee will be directly responsible for the following:
  • Leadership and management for radar engineering and logistics activities, ensuring successful accomplishment of tasking and budget execution
  • Managing the activities of the Decision Tech team, including multiple subcontractors to meet the mission and objectives of the customer's radar programs
  • Oversight of the operation of the Decision Tech Radar Repair Facility, ensuring quality and timely products and proper staffing with the specialized skill sets required for electronic/mechanical repair and small-scale fabrication
  • Oversight of the operation of multiple contractor-leased/contractor-operated Staging/Warehouse facilities actively supporting U.S. Navy ship installations
  • Maintenance of ISO-9001 Certification for the Radar Repair Facility
  • Management of subcontractor tasking, funding, coordination, and execution
  • Provide oversight for shipboard and shore site installation planning and execution
  • Provide adequate recruitment and staffing to meet customer requirements
  • Provide weekly, monthly, and quarterly customer status reporting
  • Provide management of the contract financial team to develop budgets and manage financial execution
  • Acquire and maintain adequate leased facilities for administrative and technical activities
  • Maintain excellent customer relationships, ensure customer satisfaction, and respond to new customer requirements
  • Establish and satisfy short and long-term contract goals

Required Qualifications and Skills:
  • Master's Degree from an accredited university in Engineering, Computer Science, Math, or Business discipline
  • 40 years' total experience in engineering or acquisition
  • At least 15 years as a Program Manager of a government engineering or acquisition program
  • At least 30 years' experience with U.S. Navy radar systems, combat systems, or weapon systems
  • DAWIA Level II, PMP, or equivalent Program Management certification

Desired Qualifications and Skills:
  • Experience with Program Management, engineering development, testing, analysis, fielding, and logistics support for specific Navy radar systems such as:
    • SPS-48, SPS-49, SPS-67, SPS-73, SPS-75, SPS-77, and SPQ-9B
    • BPS-15/16 Submarine radars
    • SPY-3/VSR and SPY-6(V) advanced AESA radars
  • Experience with Navy Radar or Combat/Weapon System development, testing, and fielding
  • Experience managing complex radar/combat system development programs
  • Experience briefing senior leaders on program plans and status
  • Experience managing large $100M+ contracts with high-levels of customer exposure and intensive customer/corporate engagement
  • Knowledge of fleet maintenance/modernization processes and organizational responsibilities
  • Knowledge of NAVSEA requirements for Alteration Installation Team (AIT) shipboard installations
  • Knowledge of In-Service Engineering Agent (ISEA) roles and responsibilities and direct fleet support requirements
  • Knowledge of NAVSEA Warfare Center roles and responsibilities
  • Ability to work effectively with team members and subcontractors from various technical, logistics, and administrative disciplines
  • Excellent interpersonal, leadership, and communication skills
  • Ability to develop and deliver coherent and concise customer presentations

Travel Requirements:
Limited travel requirements (<10%)
Compensation:
Compensation at Decision Technologies, Inc. is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience; as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements.
Employee Benefits:
• Competitive Paid Time Off
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical, Dependent Care & Commuter)
• Company paid Short Term, Long Term, Life and AD&D Insurance
• 401(k) match
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Certifications
Decision Technologies, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity that provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
The pay range for this role is:
140,000 - 170,000 USD per year (VB)

Apply