ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Ship Radio Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Marine Corps

CRANE OPERATOR

Groton, CT · On-site

... ship equipment, and weaponry. You will perform precision positioning of sensitive materials ... or radio. You will operate a variety of heavy equipment, such as loaders, backhoes, and vacuum ...

US Department of War

CRANE OPERATOR

Groton, CT · On-site

... ship equipment, and weaponry. You will perform precision positioning of sensitive materials ... or radio. You will operate a variety of heavy equipment, such as loaders, backhoes, and vacuum ...

US Navy

CRANE OPERATOR

Groton, CT · On-site

... ship equipment, and weaponry. You will perform precision positioning of sensitive materials ... or radio. You will operate a variety of heavy equipment, such as loaders, backhoes, and vacuum ...

McAllister Towing

Dispatcher

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

McAllister's fleet of tugs is ideal for all ship docking, general harbor, and barge assist work ... Radio operator's license preferred. * Must have a valid TWIC card. * Must have organization ...

Bristol Bay Fuels

Master/Captain

Kenai, AK · On-site

... the boat crew such as operating engines, steering and maintaining and repairing the ship ... FCC Radio Operator's License is required. * Valid Driver's license is required. Preferred ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsShip Radio Operator Jobs

Ship Radio Operator information

See salary details

$12

$23

$39

How much do ship radio operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 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.

Do ships still have radio operators?

Ship radio operators are still employed on many vessels to handle maritime communication, especially for safety, navigation, and emergency purposes. Although automation and satellite communication have reduced their numbers, trained radio operators remain essential for maintaining reliable communication at sea and often require certifications such as GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System).

Do I need a license to operate a marine VHF radio?

Ship radio operators are required to hold a Marine Radio Operator Permit issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States. This license authorizes the operation of marine VHF radios and other communication equipment on ships. Certification typically involves passing an exam that covers radio regulations, procedures, and safety protocols.

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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Ship radio operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily rates are more common in specialized fields like senior corporate executives, certain medical specialists, or high-level consultants. Some freelance or contract roles in finance, law, or technology may reach this level, but they usually require extensive experience, certifications, or unique skills. Most jobs with daily pay of $2000 involve high responsibility, expertise, or risk, and are often project-based or commission-driven.

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.

How to become a marine radio operator?

To become a marine radio operator, you typically need to obtain a Marine Radio Operator Permit from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which requires passing a written exam covering radio regulations and procedures. Relevant skills include knowledge of radio equipment, maritime safety protocols, and communication procedures, often gained through maritime training programs or courses. Certification and licensing are essential for working on ships or in maritime communication roles.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 92% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,098 per year, or $23.6 per hour.
CRANE OPERATOR

CRANE OPERATOR

U.S. Marine Corps

Groton, CT • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Operate floating and all-terrain hydraulic boom Category 1 cranes for critical lifts involving submerged loads, ship equipment, and weaponry.

  • Perform precision positioning of sensitive materials, including radioactive components, ammunition, and torpedoes, often communicating by hand signal or radio.

  • Operate and maintain a variety of heavy equipment, such as loaders, backhoes, and vacuum trucks, to support public works maintenance projects like excavation and snow removal.

Job description

Job Title

Job Description

You will operate floating and all-terrain hydraulic boom Category 1 cranes for critical lifts involving submerged loads, ship equipment, and weaponry.

You will perform precision positioning of sensitive materials, including radioactive components, ammunition, and torpedoes, often communicating by hand signal or radio.

You will operate a variety of heavy equipment, such as loaders, backhoes, and vacuum trucks, to support public works maintenance projects like excavation and snow removal.

You will lift large, geometrically complex loads that may require the use of more than one crane operating near maximum capacity.

You will perform routine maintenance on all operated equipment, including cleaning, fueling, oiling, and replacing wire rope to ensure it remains in safe, clean condition.

Apply