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Small Craft Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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SMALL CRAFT OPERATOR

Bremerton, WA · On-site

$35.90/hr

You will serve as a SMALL CRAFT OPERATOR in the PORT OPERATIONS DIVISION of NAVBASE KITSAP SILVERDALE WA.Qualifications:Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most ...

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Mechanical Technician

Hunt Valley, MD · On-site

The position also includes supporting on-water operations of surface systems, serving as a small craft operator, safety lookout, or support crew members. The candidate should be able to demonstrate ...

Textron

Mechanical Technician

Hunt Valley, MD

The position also includes supporting on-water operations of surface systems, serving as a small craft operator, safety lookout, or support crew members. The candidate should be able to demonstrate ...

Textron

Field Service Representative

Hunt Valley, MD

The position also includes supporting on-water operations of surface systems and payloads, serving as a small craft operator, safety lookout, or support crew member. Position will require a strong ...

SMX

$21 - $26.25/hr

SMX is seeking four USV Craft Maintainer/Operators to support NSW TF-ABLE by maintaining ... Experience with launch/recovery, pier-side operations, small boat operations, or waterfront safety ...

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Small Craft Operator information

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$14

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$37

How much do small craft operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for small craft operator in the United States is $25.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $33.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Small Craft Operators?

Small Craft Operators are professionals responsible for navigating and operating small boats or watercraft, such as motorboats, launches, and ferries, often for transportation, inspection, or support purposes. Their duties typically include steering and piloting vessels, performing routine maintenance, ensuring passenger safety, and adhering to maritime regulations. They may work for government agencies, commercial enterprises, or private organizations and often require specialized training or certification. The role demands knowledge of navigational techniques, safety procedures, and local waterways. Good communication skills and physical fitness are also important for this position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Small Craft Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Small Craft Operator, you need proficiency in boat handling, navigation, and safety procedures, often supported by a valid boating license or certification. Familiarity with marine radios, GPS navigation systems, and basic engine maintenance tools is typically required. Strong situational awareness, clear communication, and problem-solving abilities help operators manage challenging conditions and ensure passenger safety. These competencies are crucial for preventing accidents, ensuring efficient operations, and responding effectively to emergencies on the water.

What is the difference between Small Craft Operator vs Marine Deckhand?

AspectSmall Craft OperatorMarine Deckhand
Required CertificationsBoating safety, CPR, possibly STCWSTCW, basic safety, first aid
Work EnvironmentSmall boats, recreational or commercial vesselsLarge ships, commercial vessels, marinas
Employer & IndustryMarinas, fishing, recreational boatingShipping companies, cruise lines, cargo ships

Small Craft Operators primarily operate small boats and require safety certifications, working mainly in recreational or small commercial settings. Marine Deckhands work on larger vessels, assisting with deck operations and safety. Both roles involve safety training and are essential in maritime industries, but they differ in vessel size, scope, and work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Small Craft Operators when working in varying weather conditions?

Small Craft Operators frequently encounter challenges related to rapidly changing weather, such as sudden storms, high winds, or reduced visibility. These situations require strong situational awareness, quick decision-making, and a solid understanding of safety protocols to ensure both personal and crew safety. Operators must regularly monitor weather updates, maintain their vessel in top condition, and be prepared to adjust routes or schedules at short notice. Working closely with other crew members and maintaining clear communication is key to safely navigating unforeseen weather challenges.
More about Small Craft Operator jobs
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What states have the most Small Craft Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Small Craft Operator jobs include:
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Small Craft Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Craft Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,145 per year, or $25.6 per hour.
Small Craft Operator

Small Craft Operator

US Department of the Interior

Lodi, CA

$37.51/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

U.S. Department Of The Interior rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

321st of 693 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

These positions are Small Craft Operators, WG- 5786-9 working in Lodi, California for the R8-Lodi Fish and Wildlife Office.

The Small Craft Operator and Marine Mechanic Team plays a vital role in supporting all projects within the Lodi Fish and Wildlife Office (LFWO), with a primary focus on two collaborative programs: the Delta Juvenile Fish Monitoring Program (DJFMP) and the Enhanced Delta Smelt Monitoring (EDSM) Program.

Qualifications:To qualify for this position, you must have sufficient knowledge and ability in the following job-related factors:
  1. Ability to perform the duties of a Small Craft Operator without more than normal supervision. (SCREEN OUT) - This experience includes: the ability to perform the following tasks without more than normal supervision: regularly operate, navigate, dock/cast-off, and fuel inboard, outboard, and inboard/outboard (I/O), powered vessels, including but not limited to: prop boats, jet boats, from 3 to 13 meters in length (occasionally larger) simultaneously operating hydraulic winch controls to deploy, fish, and retrieve sampling gear, including maintenance to hydraulic equipment; and trailering and launching vessels.
  2. Operation of Motor Vehicles and vessels
  3. Ability To Interpret Instructions, Specification, etc. (related to mobile equipment operation)
  4. Ability To Operate Safely (Non-Motor Vehicle and vessels)
  5. Reliability and Dependability as a Small Craft Operator
  6. Work Practices (includes keeping things neat, clean, and in order)
If your knowledge and ability in the SCREEN OUT factor above is not sufficient, you will receive no further consideration. In preparing your application, describe in detail the experience and training which you have had that specifically prepared you for this job and to perform the duties described for this job. Experience should be clearly described and documented in your resume. The qualifications reviewer will not assume performance of such duties by Job Titles alone. Address your knowledge, skills and/or abilities in the areas shown in the job-related factors.
Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:There is no substitution of education for experience for Federal Wage System (FWS) positions.Employment Type: OTHER

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