ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Small Craft Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

NC

$32.53/hr

This is a public notice flyer to notify interested applicants of anticipated vacancies. Applications will not be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants must follow the directions in the ...

U.S. Marine Corps

SMALL CRAFT OPERATOR

Carteret, NJ · On-site +1

$32.53 - $37.94/hr

You will operate boats of various sizes including Utility Boats up to 41 feet, and 74-foot Landing Craft Mechanized boats (LCM-8) to carry passengers/vehicles/cargo, push barges, provide general ...

US Department of the Navy

NC

$32.53/hr

This is a public notice flyer to notify interested applicants of anticipated vacancies. Applications will not be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants must follow the directions in the ...

Textron

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSmall Craft Operator Jobs

Small Craft Operator information

See salary details

$14

$25

$37

How much do small craft operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Small craft operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are more common in specialized or high-risk roles like commercial pilots, certain offshore oil rig workers, or high-level consultants. These positions often require extensive experience, certifications, or working in demanding environments. Most jobs with daily pay of $2000 or more are highly skilled, contract-based, or involve significant responsibilities and risks.

What's the easiest job to get on a cruise ship?

A small craft operator is a specialized role that typically requires relevant certifications such as a boating license and experience operating small vessels. Entry-level positions like deckhands or hospitality staff are generally easier to obtain and may serve as stepping stones to more specialized roles. Certifications, physical fitness, and a willingness to work in a maritime environment are important for these jobs.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Small Craft Operator can potentially earn $10,000 a month through experience, certifications, and working in high-demand maritime environments. Such roles often require specialized training, licensing, and knowledge of safety protocols, but they do not typically require a college degree. Earnings vary based on location, employer, and hours worked.

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 jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Small craft operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. In rare cases, experienced captains of large, luxury vessels or owners of profitable maritime businesses may reach this income level. Most jobs in this range require extensive experience, advanced certifications, or ownership of high-value assets.

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
What cities are hiring for Small Craft Operator jobs? Cities with the most Small Craft Operator job openings:
What states have the most Small Craft Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Small Craft Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Small Craft Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Small Craft Operator jobs are:
Small Craft Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Craft Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,145 per year, or $25.6 per hour.
SMALL CRAFT OPERATOR

SMALL CRAFT OPERATOR

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

NC

$32.53/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 520 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 46 rated military and defense

Job description

This is a public notice flyer to notify interested applicants of anticipated vacancies. Applications will not be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants must follow the directions in the "How to Apply" section of this flyer to be considered. There may or may not be actual vacancies filled from this flyer. Notice of Result letters will not be sent to applicants who respond to this flyer.
Qualifications:Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most trade and labor occupations, you must show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of the position at the level for which you are applying. Qualification requirements emphasis is on quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time.
Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the job elements and screen out listed below.
This job has a screen-out element which will be used to determine minimum eligibility for this job. The Screen-out Element for this position is: Ability To Do The Work Of The Position Without More Than Normal Supervision: Applying local, state and federal laws while navigating watercraft and performing general maintenance on vessels.
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/federal-wage-system-qualifications/#url=WG-5700
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (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.Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

What U.S. Department Of Defense employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply