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Small Craft Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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 · On-site

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 ...

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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 Aug 6, 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 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 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.
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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

Careers Fields -- Headquarters U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$43.34/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

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 should review the "How to Apply" section of this flyer for more information on how to be considered. This flyer will be used as positions become available. There may or may not be actual vacancies filled from this flyer.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. 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). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Ability to do the work independently and safely to conduct vessel operations with limited supervision and limited ability to check-in during changing weather conditions. Ability to do the work of a Small Craft Operator, XH-5786-09 by performing tasks such as 1) Working in the maritime industry operating and maintaining vessels; 2) Leading a crew to accomplish debris missions; 3) Communicating with crew members of many personalities in an enclosed environment on a daily basis; 4) Performing basic/complex maintenance tasks and the ability to troubleshoot/diagnose to remedy the situation and use various hand tools.
PHYSICAL EFFORT: The small craft operator uses moderate effort when operating controls and observing conditions while underway. Coordination of hand and eye is necessary to direct or operate controls while maneuvering into slips.
WORKING CONDITIONS: The small craft operators work on deck, exposed to sun, wind, spray, rain, and ice during year around operations when mooring, unmooring anchoring or weighing anchor. The boat is operated from a sheltered pilot house. Operators are exposed to possible falls on deck and to the possibility of falling overboard. A life jacket is worn at all times when on deck. Incumbent must be able to swim to the standard of the American Red Cross Level II (Basic Floating Techniques and Free Styles Swim) or equivalent certification. Performs repair work on boat and engine in cramped quarters. May be exposed to grease, noise, vibration, gases, fumes, and slippery surfaces.Education:There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.Employment Type: OTHER
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About Army Corps of Engineers

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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