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Ship Radio Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... ship's supplies and equipment; keep ship's logs and make necessary reports; inspect the ship at ... Radio Operator Permit (MROP) issued by the Federal Communications Commission, or higher radio ...

... ship's supplies and equipment; keep ship's logs and make necessary reports; inspect the ship at ... Radio Operator Permit (MROP) issued by the Federal Communications Commission, or higher radio ...

GMDSS Radio Operator License and FCC Marine Radio Operator Permit. * U.S. Navy Naval X-Craft HSC ... Working Environment Shipboard environment with exposure to weather, noise, vibration, machinery ...

Captain (Sludge Boat)

Manhattan, NY ยท On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

... ship's supplies and equipment; keep ship's logs and make necessary reports; inspect the ship at ... Radio Operator Permit (MROP) issued by the Federal Communications Commission, or higher radio ...

GMDSS Radio Operator License and FCC Marine Radio Operator Permit. * U.S. Navy Naval X-Craft HSC ... Working Environment Shipboard environment with exposure to weather, noise, vibration, machinery ...

GMDSS Radio Operator License and FCC Marine Radio Operator Permit. * U.S. Navy Naval X-Craft HSC ... Working Environment Shipboard environment with exposure to weather, noise, vibration, machinery ...

$89K - $120K/yr

FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License with Ship Radar Endorsement * FCC GMDSS Radio Operator/Maintainer License * Anschutz Navigation and Radar System Certifications * Tactical Radio and ...

$120K/yr

FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License with Ship Radar Endorsement * FCC GMDSS Radio Operator/Maintainer License * Anschutz Navigation and Radar System Certifications * Tactical Radio and ...

Captain

Bayonne, NJ ยท On-site

Responsible for safe docking of ships, (when applicable). Required to perform administrative and ... Valid radio operator's license. * Must be able to understand and use information in cargo ...

Captain

Bayonne, NJ ยท On-site

Responsible for safe docking of ships, (when applicable). Required to perform administrative and ... Valid radio operator's license. * Must be able to understand and use information in cargo ...

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Ship Radio Operator information

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How much do ship radio operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship radio 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 is the difference between Ship Radio Operator vs Marine Radio Technician?

AspectShip Radio OperatorMarine Radio Technician
CredentialsFCC Marine Radio Operator Permit, GMDSS certificationFCC licenses, technical certifications in radio and electronics
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, maritime communication centersRepair shops, maritime communication equipment facilities
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, maritime industryRadio equipment manufacturers, maintenance providers

Both roles involve radio communication, but the Ship Radio Operator primarily manages onboard communication and safety systems, while the Marine Radio Technician focuses on maintaining and repairing radio equipment. The roles share certifications and work environments but differ in daily responsibilities and career focus.

How to become a ship radio operator?

To become a ship radio operator, you typically need to complete a maritime communication training program and obtain a Marine Radio Operator Permit from the relevant authorities. Proficiency in radio communication protocols, familiarity with maritime safety procedures, and good communication skills are essential. Some positions may require prior maritime experience or certification in GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System).

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ship radio operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ship Radio Operator, you need a solid understanding of radio communication protocols, maritime safety procedures, and typically a General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL) or equivalent certification. Familiarity with radio equipment, distress signal systems, and navigation communication tools is crucial. Strong attention to detail, calmness under pressure, and effective communication skills help in coordinating with crews and responding to emergencies. These competencies ensure the safe and efficient exchange of information vital for ship operations and maritime safety.

What are some common challenges faced by ship radio operators during long voyages?

Ship Radio Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining constant vigilance over communication channels, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions in remote locations, and adapting to changing weather conditions that may affect signal clarity. Additionally, operators must be prepared to relay urgent messages, coordinate with multiple crew members and authorities, and keep detailed logs, sometimes during stressful or emergency situations. The ability to remain calm, organized, and technically proficient is essential for success in this role.

What is a ship radio operator?

Ship Radio Operators are responsible for managing and operating radio communication equipment on ships. Their main duties include sending and receiving messages, ensuring reliable communication with shore stations and other ships, and monitoring distress frequencies for emergency calls. They also maintain radio logs and ensure compliance with international maritime communication regulations. Ship Radio Operators play a crucial role in the safety and coordination of ship operations, especially during emergencies.
More about Ship Radio Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Ship Radio Operator jobs? Cities with the most Ship Radio Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ship Radio Operator jobs? The most popular types of Ship Radio Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Ship Radio Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% 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.

DoD SkillBridge Intern - Shipboard HF Radio Subject Matter Expert (Active Duty Service Members)

Scientific Research Corporation

Portsmouth, VA โ€ข On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

DoD SkillBridge Intern - Shipboard HF Radio Subject Matter Expert (Active Duty Service Members)
Location US-VA-Portsmouth
ID 2025-10676
Category Field Service Engineer Position Type SkillBridge Intern Application Open Date 12/18/2025
Salary Statement
Estimated Starting Salary Range: USD $0.00/Hr. - USD $0.00/Hr. Salary to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data.
Description
    Requiring daily reporting to St. Julien's Creek Annex - no remote work authorized. Providing waterfront support to afloat naval platforms
  • Working on various naval platforms and within a lab environment
  • Testing and troubleshooting HF systems
  • Performing on-platform installation, troubleshooting, and testing of naval communication systems and equipment
  • Performing system-level software testing to accurately validate operational readiness
  • Performing installation and verification tests on HF systems
  • Performing inspection and testing of installed antennas and antenna lines
  • Repairing electronics assemblies, cables, systems
  • Reading, understanding and interpreting technical reports and drawings
  • Understanding of networking concepts
  • Assisting troubleshooting and repairing antennas as required
  • Providing written and/or oral status updates of current system evolution, as well as support provided to LANT/PAC Fleet platforms to supervisor
  • Standing or walking while lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling heavy objects; requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work on waterfront platforms during all seasons
  • Packaging, handling, storage, and transportation of materials and equipment
  • Prioritizing tasks and strong ability to meet deadlines
  • Performing ad-hoc tasking within contract scope

FILLING THIS POSITION IS CONTINGENT UPON FUNDING

#LI-AM1

Requirements
  • Eight plus (8+) years of hands-on experience supporting shipboard high frequency (HF) radio communications equipment on multiple classes of naval platforms to include installation, operating, troubleshooting and repair of shipboard HF equipment
  • Expertise in operation, analysis and troubleshooting of HF communication systems
  • Direct experience testing and troubleshooting radio frequency (RF) systems, including spectrum analyzers, power meters, signal generators, and digital multi-meters, as well as basic antenna troubleshooting
  • Working knowledge of interfacing equipment including HFRG, URT-23, BFTN, SA-2112 SAS/BAS, TVS, cryptographic devices, NAVMACS, couplers, TA-970 and antenna systems
  • Experienced with RF system components such as amplifiers, filters, mixers, couplers, splitters/combiners, and antennas
  • Ability to effectively communicate via oral and written communications with a variety of stakeholders to include government civilians, technical staff, junior, senior and executive staff military personnel
  • Knowledge of combat systems department roles and responsibilities
  • Knowledge of shipboard evolutions impacting testing and troubleshooting RF
  • CompTIA Security+ Certification (Within 6 months of hire)
  • Ability to work successfully in a collaborative and diverse environment and be a team player
  • Ability to stand or walk while lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling heavy objects; requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Packaging, handling, storage, and transportation of materials and equipment
  • Ability to travel CONUS and OCONUS 20-30% (nonconsecutive)
  • Will be required to obtain a passport
  • High degree of self-motivation
  • Secret Clearance
Desired Skills
  • Strong knowledge of shipboard system installations and associated documentation to include SIDs and system technical manuals
  • Significant knowledge of shipboard radio communications center
  • Significant experience working through shipboard evolutions and communicating with combat systems chain of command
  • Ability to perform preventative maintenance on HF and legacy equipment
  • General working knowledge of BRSE systems is a plus
  • Previous hands-on experience working with various green gear radios
  • Previous experience troubleshooting TA-970 red phones
Clearance Information

SRC IS A CONTRACTOR FOR THE U.S. GOVERNMENT, THIS POSITION WILL REQUIRE U.S. CITIZENSHIP AS WELL AS, A U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITY CLEARANCE AT THE SECRET LEVEL

Travel Requirements
  • 20-30% annual CONUS and OCONUS travel includes all major naval DOD/shipyard installations
About Us

Scientific Research Corporation is an advanced information technology and engineering company that provides innovative products and services to government and private industry, as well as independent institutions. At the core of our capabilities is a seasoned team of highly skilled engineers and scientists with multidisciplinary backgrounds. This team is challenged daily to provide cutting edge technology solutions to our clients.

SRC offers a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with a company match, life insurance, vacation and sick paid time off accruals with amounts increasing based on role and years of service, 11 paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, and a work environment that encourages excellence and more. For positions requiring a security clearance, selected applicants will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

EEO

Scientific Research Corporation is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate in employment.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state or local law.

Scientific Research Corporation endeavors to make www.scires.com accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact jobs@scires.com for assistance. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.