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Small Craft Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Small Craft Specialist will provide expertise and support to the US Marine Corps (USMC) in the ... Water Safety Craft certified as Operator/Maintainer. * Must possess and maintain a Commercial ...

Marine Craft Mechanic

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$25.75 - $30.75/hr

Perform maintenance and repair on NSW surface support craft and small boats * Inspect and service ... We are a proven prime contractor that understands future operating environments, fiscal constraints ...

Marine Craft Mechanic

Virginia Beach, VA

$25.75 - $30.75/hr

Perform maintenance and repair on NSW surface support craft and small boats * Inspect and service ... We are a proven prime contractor that understands future operating environments, fiscal constraints ...

Marine Craft Mechanic

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$25.75 - $30.75/hr

Perform maintenance and repair on NSW surface support craft and small boats * Inspect and service ... We are a proven prime contractor that understands future operating environments, fiscal constraints ...

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 ...

Marine Craft Mechanic

Virginia Beach, VA

$25.75 - $30.75/hr

Small boats * Surface support craft * Personal watercraft * Trailers and associated support ... Frequent interaction with maintenance teams, operators, and government personnel. Physical ...

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Small Craft Operator information

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$14

$25

$37

How much do small craft operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 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 is a small craft operator?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a small craft operator?

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 challenges do small craft operators face 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.

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.

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:

Infographic showing various Small Craft Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,145 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Small Craft Specialist

Cni

Quantico, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

The Small Craft Specialist will provide expertise and support to the US Marine Corps (USMC) in the field of small craft systems. This position assists the government in various tasks related to small craft programs, including market research, testing, drafting reports, conducting audits, and providing recommendations for improvements. The specialist will also be responsible for drafting and updating drawings, reviewing safety assessments, investigating malfunctions, and managing the MCSC boat locker and related equipment. This position is 100% onsite in the Quantico, Virginia area.

Chickasaw Nation Industries, Inc. serves as a holding company with multiple subsidiaries engaged in several lines of business (Technology, Infrastructure & Engineering, Health, Manufacturing, Public Safety, Consulting, and Transportation) for the federal government and commercial enterprises.A portion of our profits is used to support Chickasaw citizens. We are proud to support the economic development and long-term viability of the Chickasaw Nation and its people. CNI offers premium benefits eligible on the first day of hire to full time employees; (Medical - Dental - Vision), Company Life Insurance, Short-Term and Long-Term disability insurance, 401k Immediate Vesting, Professional Development Assistance, personal time off, and observance of Federal Holidays.

Must be able to obtain a secret clearance which requires US Citizenship.

As a federal contractor, CNI is a drug-free workplace and adheres to the Federal Controlled Substance Act.

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Must be able to obtain a secret clearance which requires US Citizenship.
  • Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent experience.
  • Mercury Verado Engine certified in all echelons of maintenance and diagnostics.
  • Evinrude 55HP Multi-Fuel Engine certified in all echelons of maintenance and diagnostics.
  • Combat Rubber Reconnaissance Craft repair certified.
  • Shall be formally trained and qualified as a USMC Small Craft Mechanic (AMOS 1342) or equivalent.
  • Water Safety Craft certified as Operator/Maintainer.
  • Must possess and maintain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class A.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential Duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Conducting market research and assessing the potential for integration of new technology into USMC small craft programs. Coordinates, executes, and drafts summary reports for testing of new small craft and equipment. The Government estimates drafting 4 summary reports per year.
  • Drafts, reviews, and provides recommendations for test plans.
  • Conducts physical configuration audits on small craft systems. The Government estimates 4 physical configuration audits per year.
  • Drafts new and updating existing drawings.
  • Reviews and makes recommendations for safety assessments.
  • Drafts, reviews, and edits engineering change proposals.
  • Investigates and drafts reports on small craft and equipment malfunctions due to material failures. The Government estimates drafting 4 reports on small craft and equipment malfunctions due to material failures per year.
  • Drafts and reviews plans for, providing recommendations for, and participating in supportability demonstrations, validation and verification of technical manuals, and modifies fielded assets.
  • Maintains and manages the MCSC boat locker and related equipment.
  • Supports fielding and acceptance of initial issue equipment to the operational forces to include new equipment training and technical support, technical issue resolution with manufactures and development of new equipment Technical Manuals.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent experience.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

Majority of work performed in an office environment. Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm. Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls. Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place. Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects. Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects. See details of objects that are less than a few feet away. Understand the speech of another person. Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out. Determine the distance between objects. See details of objects that are more than a few feet away. Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects. Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired. Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath. See differences between colors, shades, and brightness. Speak clearly so listeners can understand. React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet. Choose quickly and correctly among various movements when responding to different signals. Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving. Keep or regain the body's balance or stay upright when in an unstable position. Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired. Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them. Focus on one source of sound and ignore others. Adjust body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects. See objects in very low light. While looking forward, see objects or movements that are off to the side. See objects in very bright or glaring light. Use muscles to jump, sprint, or throw objects. Determine from which direction a sound came. Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists. Move arms and legs quickly.

EOE including Disability/Vet

CNI offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401(k)
  • STD/LTD/AD&D
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Training and Development Opportunities

Your application submission will be considered for all potential employment opportunities with Chickasaw Nation Industries (CNI).

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