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Small Boat Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CSS, Inc

Coastal Resilience Ecologist

Beaufort, NC

Serve as Boat Operator and maintain NOAA certification to do so Qualifications: * Masters degree ... Experience with small boat operations: familiar with NOAA Small boat operations: Course Virtual ...

CSS, Inc

Coastal Resilience Ecologist

Beaufort, NC · On-site

Serve as Boat Operator and maintain NOAA certification to do so Qualifications: * Masters degree ... Experience with small boat operations: familiar with NOAA Small boat operations: Course Virtual ...

Lynker Corporation

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$45K - $90K/yr

Experience in boat handling and seamanship: licensed boater or captain is desired. Experience ... About Lynker Lynker is a growing, employee owned, small business, specializing in professional ...

Entarian

Fisheries Small Vessel Captain

Pascagoula, MS

$60K - $65K/yr

A minimum of 15 years' experience as Captain of a research or fishing vessel including operating ... Small boat operation certification (fast rescue boat) * Knowledge of fishing gear regulations ...

Entarian

Fisheries Small Vessel Captain

Pascagoula, MS · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

A minimum of 15 years' experience as Captain of a research or fishing vessel including operating ... Small boat operation certification (fast rescue boat) * Knowledge of fishing gear regulations ...

Entarian

Fisheries Small Vessel Captain

Pascagoula, MS · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

A minimum of 15 years' experience as Captain of a research or fishing vessel including operating ... Small boat operation certification (fast rescue boat) * Knowledge of fishing gear regulations ...

Entarian

Fisheries Small Vessel Captain

Pascagoula, MS · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

A minimum of 15 years' experience as Captain of a research or fishing vessel including operating ... Small boat operation certification (fast rescue boat) * Knowledge of fishing gear regulations ...

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How much do small boat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for small boat operator 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 are some common challenges faced by Small Boat Operators on the job?

Small Boat Operators often work in changing weather conditions and must be prepared to respond quickly to emergencies or equipment malfunctions. Navigating busy waterways, following strict safety protocols, and maintaining constant vigilance can be demanding aspects of the role. Additionally, operators may be required to perform physical tasks such as docking, anchoring, or assisting with cargo or passengers, sometimes in challenging environments. Effective teamwork and communication with crew members and support staff are key to managing these challenges and ensuring safe, successful operations.

What is a Small Boat Operator job?

A Small Boat Operator is responsible for navigating and maintaining small watercraft for various purposes, such as transportation, research, law enforcement, or rescue operations. They ensure the vessel is in good working condition, adhere to safety regulations, and may assist with loading and unloading cargo or passengers. This role requires experience in boat handling, knowledge of maritime laws, and the ability to respond effectively to emergencies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Small Boat Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Small Boat Operator, you need strong navigational skills, experience with vessel handling, and often a valid boating license or certification. Familiarity with GPS systems, marine radios, safety equipment, and maintenance tools is also essential. Strong situational awareness, adaptability, and effective communication help operators work efficiently and safely within varied maritime conditions. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe vessel operation, successful mission completion, and the well-being of everyone aboard.

More about Small Boat Operator jobs
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Small Boat Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Boat Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,758 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Coastal Resilience Ecologist

CSS, Inc

Beaufort, NC

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Ecologist to support field and laboratory research in Coastal Wetland Ecology at the NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS). The NCCOS Beaufort Lab conducts basic and applied research on: 1) the response of coastal habitats including estuarine marshes, seagrasses, and oyster reefs to sea level rise and other climate change-related stressors, 2) the use of natural coastal habitats to promote resilience to these stressors, and; 3) the impacts of nature based infrastructure on the ecological function of a site.

Incumbent supports both field and laboratory aspects of our research program. This position is responsible for field-based sample and data collection that may include sampling vegetation, sediments and porewaters, maintenance of wave and water level sensors, surveying with GNSS and participation in drone-based data collection. Laboratory activities include processing of vegetation and sediment samples (drying, grinding and weighing) as well as analytical chemistry to quantify sample nutrient and carbon content and gas flux (CO2 and methane). The incumbent joins an interdisciplinary team and have the opportunity to interact with academic, governmental and private sector collaborators. Some field work will require overnight travel (< 10% of time).

Responsibilities:

  • Plan field work trips and assist in/oversee data collection efforts.
  • Sample preparation, analysis and data entry of results in addition to general laboratory support
  • Management and maintenance of field and laboratory instruments
  • Ensure and document compliance with laboratory safety protocols and record keeping requirements
  • Contribute to data reporting
  • Conduct background research and literature searches for projects
  • Manage and analyze files with ArcGIS
  • Plan, conduct, and manage data from a monthly monitoring program at created fringe reefs
  • Analyze and interpret data collected data from monitoring efforts
  • Present analyses and results in written reports and in presentations at professional meetings
  • Co-author peer-reviewed publications
  • Serve as technical expert on Elemental Analysis of solid samples
  • Serve as Boat Operator and maintain NOAA certification to do so

Qualifications:

  • Masters degree with at least 2 years of professional experience in coastal ecology
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced dynamic setting
  • Previous experience with analytical chemistry desired
  • Ability to carry 50 lbs and tolerate work in hot, muddy conditions
  • Experience with small boat operations: familiar with NOAA Small boat operations: Course Virtual "NCCV" and USCG Boat America Training
  • Experience with drone-based mapping
  • Experience with trimble GNSS receivers
  • Demonstrated knowledge of ArcGIS, including imagery and remote sensing, cartography, and spatial analysis
  • Demonstrated knowledge of USGS UAS Photogrammetry protocols

At CSS, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and merit-based workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals, ensuring that hiring and employment decisions are based on qualifications, skills, and performance. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

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