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Small Craft Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Lake Assault Boats

Marine Mechanic

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Installation and service of electrical components found on board small patrol craft and work boats ... Ability to obtain a state boat operators license. * Ability to obtain a passport. Physical ...

Lake Assault Boats

Marine Mechanic

Portsmouth, VA

$26.75 - $31.75/hr

Installation and service of electrical components found on board small patrol craft and work boats ... Ability to obtain a state boat operators license. * Ability to obtain a passport. Physical ...

Lake Assault Boats

Marine Mechanic

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Installation and service of electrical components found on board small patrol craft and work boats ... Ability to obtain a state boat operators license. * Ability to obtain a passport. Physical ...

Ace Handyman Services

Craftsman

Springfield, VA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

... small - inside and outside. We are currently seeking highly motivated professional Craftsman with ... Ace Handyman Services is a franchise network of Independently Owned and Operated Franchises. Your ...

Ace Handyman Services

Craftsman

Manquin, VA · On-site

$40/hr

Sometimes, we take the time to fix something small and then point it out to the customer to help ... Ace Handyman Services is a franchise network of Independently Owned and Operated Franchises. Your ...

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All JobsSmall Craft Operator JobsSmall Craft Operator Jobs in Virginia

Small Craft Operator information

See Virginia 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 Virginia is $25.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $33.12 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.
What are popular job titles related to Small Craft Operator jobs in Virginia? For Small Craft Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Small Craft Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Small Craft Operator jobs in Virginia are:
Small Craft Operator jobs near you
Waterborne Security Boat Instructor

Waterborne Security Boat Instructor

Prevailance

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 hours ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time, Contract
Description
Status: Position Filled - Accepting Applications for Ready Replacement Pool (RRP) consideration.
Prevailance is seeking an experienced, mission-focused professional to join the Center for Security Forces (CENSECFOR) as a Waterborne Security Boat Instructor at Learning Site Little Creek, located in Virginia Beach, VA. This is a high-risk instructor role, involving both classroom and operational training. Travel may be required.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Deliver high-risk, group-paced instruction on security boat tactics, techniques, and procedures in both classroom and underway training environments
  • Utilize Safety/Operational Risk Management, Classroom Teaching Fundamentals, Training Requirements and Training Plans, and Training Scenario Scripting

Requirements
Qualifications:
  • Navy Instructor (9502) certification or equivalent
  • Certified coxswain
  • At least three (3) years of documented operational security boat driving experience in one or more of the following:
    • Navy Harbor Security Maritime Detachment
    • U.S. Navy Coastal Riverine Forces (CRF) Detachment
    • U.S. Navy Special Warfare Combatant Crewman (SWCC)
    • USCG Shore-Based Boat Unit or Maritime Patrol Forces operating Fast Response Cutters (FRC), Patrol Boats (WPB), or Coastal Patrol Boats (CPB)
    • USCG Deployable Specialized Forces (DSF) such as MSRT, MSST, or PSU

Skills and Expertise:
  • Tactical and Leadership Experience: Minimum of three (3) years in a maritime environment with a strong background in tactical operations, boat maintenance, and Navy Force Protection boats
  • Coxswain Skills: Experience with launch and recovery, open water and confined space maneuvering, high-speed tactical maneuvers, towing, and VBSS operations
  • Maritime Navigation Proficiency: Skilled in maritime navigation, including knowledge of aids to navigation, rules of the road, and plotting on nautical charts, with the ability to navigate at night
  • Small Boat Tactical Operations: Proficient in team organization, multi-craft formations, patrols, MIO support, live fire operations, and escort missions, with experience in risk assessments using the ORM process
  • Craft Systems and Sub-Systems: Expertise in electronic navigation systems, communication equipment, and operation and maintenance of water jet and propeller-driven craft

Additional Requirements:
  • Experience in logistical movement and transportation of small craft and associated gear for over-the-road and hoisting operations
  • Tactical operations planning experience using military decision-making processes, including mission coordination, concept of operations, and mission debriefing
  • Ability to qualify as a Second-Class Swimmer per NETC P1552/16 standards, with normal color vision (FALANT color vision test and no night blindness)

Security Clearance:
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance

If you meet these qualifications and are ready to make an impact, we encourage you to apply today!
Prevailance, Inc. proudly supports veterans as a member of the V3 (Virginia Values Veterans) program and the Hire Vets initiative. Recognized as a Top Workplace in 2025, Prevailance fosters a supportive, mission-driven environment for its team members. We provide a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, designed to support health, wellness, and financial security. Our benefits include:
  • Medical Insurance
  • TriCare Supplemental
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life & Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Coverage
  • 401(k) Plan with Company Matching Contributions
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 11 Paid Holidays
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Computing Device Reimbursement Program

Prevailance, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, age, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, marital status or any other consideration prohibited by law or contract. Prevailance, Inc. participates in E-Verify and is VEVRAA Compliant.
Salary Description
$55,000 - $75,000

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