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Ship Radio Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Yulista

Navigational Watch 3rd Mate

Panama City, FL · On-site

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 ...

State of Maryland

MD · On-site

$46K - $72K/yr

... Operator license (GROL), an FCC Ship Radar Endorsement, a National Association of Business and ... Radio certificate, or an Associated Public Safety Communications Officer Incorporated certificate.

City of New York

Captain (Sludge Boat)

Manhattan, NY · On-site

... 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 ...

City of New York

Captain (Sludge Boat)

Manhattan, NY

... 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 ...

City of New York

Captain (Sludge Boat)

Manhattan, NY · 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 ...

Yulista

Navigational Watch 3rd Mate

Panama City, FL · On-site

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 ...

General Dynamics Information Technology

$102K - $138K/yr

FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License with Ship Radar Endorsement * FCC GMDSS Radio Operator/Maintainer License * Anschuetz Navigation Advance Steering or Steering 1 and 2 Certification

General Dynamics Corporation

$102 - $138/hr

FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License with Ship Radar Endorsement * FCC GMDSS Radio Operator/Maintainer License * Anschuetz Navigation Advance Steering or Steering 1 and 2 Certification

GDIT

$102K - $138K/yr

FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License with Ship Radar Endorsement * FCC GMDSS Radio Operator/Maintainer License * Anschuetz Navigation Advance Steering or Steering 1 and 2 Certification

Mural Industrial

Boat Captain

Detroit, MI · On-site

$200K - $300K/yr

... ship * Ensure all vessel personnel comply with regulatory training requirements * Investigate ... Marine Radio Operator Permit * Valid CPR and First Aid card * Valid Driver's License

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Ship Radio Operator information

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$12

$23

$39

How much do ship radio operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 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 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.

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 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 maritime authority. Certification often requires passing written exams on radio regulations, safety procedures, and radio operation skills, and applicants must meet health and age requirements. Experience with radio equipment and knowledge of maritime communication protocols are also important for this role.
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Ship Radio Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Radio Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,098 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Navigational Watch 3rd Mate

Yulista

Panama City, FL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Yulista rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Yulista Contract Services LLC
Regular
Primary Function
Serve as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch aboard a high-speed craft operating on ocean routes. Safely navigate and operate the vessel, supervise deck operations, ensure compliance with USCG, STCW, and company requirements, and support mission execution.
Essential Duties
Stand navigational watch; conduct voyage planning; operate radar/ARPA/ECDIS; supervise mooring and deck evolutions; maintain charts and publications; conduct drills; maintain logs; ensure regulatory compliance; perform duties assigned by the Master.
Supervisory Responsibilities
  • Directly supervises up to four (4) Able Seamen (ABs) during assigned watches and deck evolutions.
  • Serves as the Officer in Charge of the Navigational Watch (OICNW) while underway, exercising delegated authority from the Master for the safe navigation and operation of the vessel.
  • Directs and coordinates lookout duties, helm orders, and bridge watch activities to ensure compliance with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), Navigation Rules, and company operating procedures.
  • Supervises all deck operations conducted during the assigned watch, including mooring, anchoring, towing, RHIB launch and recovery, cargo handling, replenishment, and flight deck support operations, as applicable.
  • Ensures assigned deck personnel comply with established safety policies, standard operating procedures, and applicable USCG, NAVSEA, and company requirements.
  • Assigns work, monitors performance, and provides on-the-job instruction and mentoring to Able Seamen.
  • Maintains situational awareness of vessel operations and promptly reports abnormal conditions, hazards, or operational concerns to the Master.
  • Coordinates with the Chief Engineer and engineering watch personnel during normal and casualty operations to ensure the safe operation of the vessel.
  • Maintains required navigational records, bridge logs, and watch documentation.
  • Directs the initial response to emergencies occurring during the assigned watch until relieved by the Master or designated senior officer.

Desired Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Knowledge of COLREGS, high-speed craft operations, bridge resource management, GMDSS, navigation, maritime safety, leadership, and emergency response.
Required Qualifications
  • USCG Credential: Master of Self-Propelled Vessels Less than 1600 GRT Upon Oceans (Domestic), 3000 GT ITC Upon Oceans.
  • STCW BT, AFF, Lifeboatman, BRM, ECDIS, Radar Observer Unlimited, ARPA.
  • GMDSS Radio Operator License and FCC Marine Radio Operator Permit.
  • U.S. Navy Naval X-Craft HSC Type Rating (Master) or obtain within 60 days after vessel availability.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret Clearance.

Working Environment
Shipboard environment with exposure to weather, noise, vibration, machinery, confined spaces, and emergency situations.
PREFERENCE STATEMENT
Preference will be given to Calista shareholders and their descendants and to spouses of Calista shareholders, and to shareholders of other corporations created pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, in accordance with Title 43 U.S. Code 1626(g).
EEO STATEMENT
Additionally, it is our policy to select, place, train and promote the most qualified individuals based upon relevant factors such as work quality, attitude and experience, so as to provide equal employment opportunity for all employees in compliance with applicable local, state and federal laws and without regard to non-work related factors such as race, color, religion/creed, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship, genetic information, or other protected status. When applicable, our policy of non-discrimination applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, transfer, promotion, placement, layoff, compensation, termination, reduction in force and benefits.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION
It is Calista and Subsidiaries' business philosophy and practice to provide reasonable accommodations, according to applicable state and federal laws, to all qualified individuals with physical or mental disabilities.
The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe the general content and requirements for performance of this job. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties, responsibilities, and requirements.
This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter the scope of work within the framework of this job description at any time without prior notice.

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