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Ship Radio Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Centerline Logistics Corporation

Captain

Seattle, WA · On-site

$1.0K/day

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 ...

Louisiana Department of State Civil Service

MATE

Chauvin, LA · On-site

$22.75 - $25.25/hr

... operating, and recovery of ship's small vessel. * Operates ship's radio, radar, depth sounders, on-board computer-based acquisition system and/or other appropriate equipment and advanced technology ...

State of Louisiana

MATE

Baton Rouge, LA

... operating, and recovery of ship's small vessel. Operates ship's radio, radar, depth sounders, on-board computer-based acquisition system and/or other appropriate equipment and advanced technology, as ...

State of Louisiana

MATE

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

... operating, and recovery of ship's small vessel. * Operates ship's radio, radar, depth sounders, on-board computer-based acquisition system and/or other appropriate equipment and advanced technology ...

Harborside Corporation

... ship, or the recovery of persons who have fallen overboard. * Conduct sufficient fire drills to ... Marine radio operator license. * Current membership in the Drug Consortium Program. Knowledge ...

Harborside Corporation

... ship, or the recovery of persons who have fallen overboard. * Conduct sufficient fire drills to ... Marine radio operator license. * Current membership in the Drug Consortium Program. Knowledge ...

Psa Airlines

Maintenance Technical Pilot

Charlotte, NC · On-site

Currently have or ability to obtain an FCC Restricted Radio Operator's Permit. * Currently have or ability to obtain a First-Class Medical. * Currently have or ability to obtain a valid US or Foreign ...

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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 Jul 21, 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.

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 are Ship Radio Operators and what do they do?

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:
What job categories do people searching Ship Radio Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ship Radio Operator jobs are:
Ship Radio Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Radio Operator job openings in the United States as of July 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.
Captain

Captain

Centerline Logistics Corporation

Seattle, WA • On-site

$1.0K/day

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Overview
Responsible for the safe transportation of the assigned barge(s) and for the safety of the cargo, vessel(s) and crew. Responsible for safe docking of ships, (when applicable). Required to perform administrative and supervisory functions. Responsible for maintenance and cleanliness of tug and barge.
Responsibilities
The job responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
  • Oversees safety of vessel
  • Stands wheelhouse watches underway.
  • Direct crew in performance of drills.
  • Determine the need for and assign lookouts as necessary.
  • Ensure compliance with Federal, State, and Company policies and regulations.
  • Prepare, monitor, and update vessel work lists and maintenance schedules.
  • Ensure all crewmen are performing their duties.
  • Prepare written reports per company and regulatory agency directives.
  • Check and approve all requisitions and work orders.
  • Ensure supplies are used on an efficient manner, inventory and prepare material requisitions
  • Conduct inspections and monitor tug/barge maintenance activities.
  • Assign work projects for crew.
  • Inspect cleanliness of the vessel and barge.
  • Purchase food for crew.
  • Work aboard boats and barges using pike poles, heavy lines, winches, mechanical tools for repairs as needed.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Must be able to read, speak and understand English over radiotelephone and/or radio.
  • Must be able to communicate in English and effectively direct workers in assigning jobs and seeing them through to completion.
  • Valid TWIC
  • Must have a valid first aid certificate.
  • Must have valid CPR training.
  • Must have a valid HAZWOPER certificate or complete a 24 hour training course within 6 months from date of hire.
  • Must be able to direct, fairly evaluate, and correct performance of subordinates.
  • Must have valid states driver's license.
  • Valid radio operator's license.
  • Must be able to understand and use information in cargo information cards and material safety data sheets.
  • Must be able to work independently and without direct supervision.

REGIONAL SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
  • Valid Coast Guard license, minimum 200 GT near Coastal, with a radar observer endorsement.
  • Valid Master or Towing near Coastal endorsement.
  • Five (5) years of experience towing barges as Master, coastwise on the US West Coast, SE Alaska and Central Alaska.

Job Condition and Environment
  • Ability to get along with crew members in confined quarters for prolonged periods of time
  • Must be able to perform the functions set forth in the attached job analysis and physically fit enough to pull heavy lines/hoses, lift, carry heavy items, climb onto barges and up and down ladders, and bending and twisting during boat/barge tie up.
  • Exposure to all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, heat, wind, heavy seas, etc.)
  • Must not be afraid of heights.

Expected Hours of Work
  • Ability to adapt to a variety of schedules and hours
  • Willing to take call outs.
  • Able to work weekends, holidays, and at night.

Company Overview
Centerline Logistics is a leading provider of marine transportation services in the United States. Centerline Logistics operates on the United States West Coast (including Alaska and Hawaii), United States East Coast (including Puerto Rico), the United States Gulf Coast and the Mississippi River System. Services provided include the transportation and storage of petroleum products, tanker escort, ship assist, the transportation of general cargo and rescue towing. Centerline Logistics is the parent company of eight businesses specializing in marine services and a bulk liquids terminal business. Centerline Logistics provides accounting, administrative, human resources, safety and environmental services, and other support to the subsidiary companies.
The Company offers Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and AD&D options to our employees and their eligible dependents after meeting Company requirements. 401(k) options, Disability Insurance, sick pay, vacation pay, 10 paid holidays per calendar year (subject to work schedule) and Healthcare and/or Dependent Care FSAs are also available to our employees after meeting Company requirements. All benefits information may be subject to change based on any current or updated benefit plan year changes and/or Collective Bargaining Agreements.
We are an Equal Employment Opportunity and Drug Free Work place. Pre-employment drug testing is required.

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