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Small Boat Coxswain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rigger Helper

Waipahu, HI ยท On-site

$23 - $23.76/hr

Support safe small-boat operations; when assigned as Boat Coxswain, ensure riders and deckhands comply with personal protective equipment and safety requirements. Assist in the receipt, mooring, and ...

Support safe small-boat operations; when assigned as Boat Coxswain, ensure riders and deckhands comply with personal protective equipment and safety requirements. Assist in the receipt, mooring, and ...

Rigger Helper

Waipahu, HI ยท On-site

$23 - $23.76/hr

Support safe small-boat operations; when assigned as Boat Coxswain, ensure riders and deckhands comply with personal protective equipment and safety requirements.Assist in the receipt, mooring, and ...

MARINE MACHINERY MECHANIC

Everett, WA ยท On-site

$35.90/hr

... found on small tugs and marine service craft. Other expected duties are maintaining shop ... Basic Boat Coxswain (SIMBBC) Course as a boat crewmember. -Become Facility Response Team (FRT ...

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Small Boat Coxswain information

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$11

$20

$29

How much do small boat coxswain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for small boat coxswain in the United States is $20.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a small boat coxswain?

Small Boat Coxswains are professionals responsible for operating and navigating small vessels, such as rescue boats, patrol boats, or tenders. They ensure the safety of the crew and passengers, manage boat operations, and often assist in missions like search and rescue, law enforcement, or transportation. Coxswains must be skilled in navigation, boat handling, and emergency procedures, and they typically receive specialized training and certification. Their leadership and decision-making abilities are crucial, especially in challenging or hazardous conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a small boat coxswain?

To thrive as a Small Boat Coxswain, you need strong seamanship, navigation skills, and a solid understanding of maritime safety protocols, typically supported by relevant certifications such as a Coxswain Certificate or similar maritime qualification. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, marine radios, and small vessel engines is essential for safe and effective vessel operation. Leadership, quick decision-making, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for managing crew and responding to emergencies. These skills ensure safe navigation, effective crew coordination, and successful completion of missions under challenging conditions.

What are some of the typical challenges a small boat coxswain faces during daily operations?

Small Boat Coxswains often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, unpredictable sea states, and navigation in congested or restricted waterways. They must remain vigilant for hazards, ensure crew safety, and maintain effective communication with team members and command centers. Additionally, balancing mission objectives with operational safety and adapting quickly to emergency situations are key aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Small Boat Coxswain vs Marine Deckhand?

AspectSmall Boat CoxswainMarine Deckhand
CertificationsBoating safety, CPR, and vessel-specific licensesSTCW certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentSmall boats, marinas, coastal watersLarge ships, docks, open sea
ResponsibilitiesNavigate, operate, and oversee small boatsAssist with cargo, maintenance, and deck operations

The Small Boat Coxswain primarily operates and navigates small vessels, requiring specific boating certifications. In contrast, a Marine Deckhand supports larger ships with maintenance and cargo tasks. Both roles are essential in maritime operations but differ in scope, environment, and required credentials.

More about Small Boat Coxswain jobs

What job categories do people searching Small Boat Coxswain jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Small Boat Coxswain jobs are:

Infographic showing various Small Boat Coxswain job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,758 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Small Boat Mechanic / Marine Electrician

Anchor Innovation, Inc.

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$29 - $34.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Description:Small Boat Mechanic / Marine ElectricianPosition Filled, Accepting ApplicationsLocations:
  • San Diego, CA
  • Port Hueneme, CA
Clearance:
  • Active Secret Clearance
Travel:
  • Limited CONUS travel in support of waterfront operations, testing, maintenance, and fleet support.
About This Opportunity

Current positions are filled; however, Anchor Innovation maintains an active candidate pool for future openings supporting small boat maintenance, marine electrical systems, waterfront operations, and unmanned surface vessel (sUSV) sustainment efforts.

Qualified applicants may be considered for future opportunities involving mechanical and electrical maintenance, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, launch and recovery operations, technical support, waterfront operations, and operational testing.

This candidate pool supports future growth, personnel transitions, surge requirements, and anticipated contract awards pending funding and final alignment with customer and Program Office requirements.

Typical Areas of Support
  • Small Boat Mechanical Maintenance
  • Marine Electrical Systems
  • Outboard & Diesel Engine Maintenance
  • Jet Drive Maintenance
  • Preventative & Corrective Maintenance
  • Waterfront Maintenance Support
  • Launch & Recovery Operations
  • Technical Troubleshooting
  • Readiness Inspections
  • Operational Test Support
  • Fleet Sustainment
  • Maintenance Documentation
  • Logistics & Parts Support
Requirements:Requirements
  • U.S. Citizen
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Common Access Card (CAC)
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Minimum three years of military, government, or commercial experience supporting small boat operations, marine maintenance, marine electrical systems, waterfront operations, or related mission areas
  • Ability to work in waterfront, maintenance, shipyard, and field environments
  • Ability to travel throughout Southern California as required
  • Strong mechanical, electrical, and troubleshooting skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
Preferred Qualifications
  • Active Secret Clearance
  • USCG 50-Ton or 100-Ton Master's License
  • Experience maintaining military or commercial small craft
  • Experience with gasoline and diesel propulsion systems
  • Marine electrical troubleshooting experience
  • Experience with Hamilton Jet, Mercury, Yamaha, Suzuki, Cummins, OXE, or similar propulsion systems
  • Experience supporting:
    • U.S. Navy USVRON
    • SURFDEVGRU
    • Maritime Expeditionary Security Force (MESF)
    • Coastal Riverine Force (CRF)
    • Naval Special Warfare (NSW)
    • U.S. Coast Guard operational boat units
  • Boat Captain, Coxswain, Engineer, or Maintenance qualifications
  • Experience supporting waterfront operations and operational testing
  • Experience with preventative maintenance programs and OEM technical manuals
  • Familiarity with Navy maintenance documentation and logistics processes