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Small Craft Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Tactical Data Link SME

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Physically capable of embarking Navy/Marine vessels , aircraft, and small crafts * Willingness to ... JT-310 (Advanced JICC Operators Course) * A-2G-0114 (Interface Control Officer Course) * Fully ...

Tactical Data Link SME

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Physically capable of embarking Navy/Marine vessels , aircraft, and small crafts * Willingness to ... JT-310 (Advanced JICC Operators Course) * A-2G-0114 (Interface Control Officer Course) * Fully ...

Tactical Data Link SME

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Physically capable of embarking Navy/Marine vessels , aircraft, and small crafts * Willingness to ... JT-310 (Advanced JICC Operators Course) * A-2G-0114 (Interface Control Officer Course) * Fully ...

Licensed Plumber

Winchester, VA ยท On-site

$800 - $1.0K/wk

... small- to mid-sized residential work. Handyman Connection of Winchester, VA is a locally owned, locally operated Home Improvement Company dedicated to excellent customer service and quality work. We ...

General Laborer

Christiansburg, VA ยท On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Operate hand and power tools of all types: air hammers, earth tampers, cement mixers, small ... Provide assistance to craft workers, such as carpenters, operators, and masons. * Raze buildings ...

Lawn Services Team

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$22/hr

We are locally owned and operated by the same leadership team behind Ace Handyman Services of NoVA ... Drive a company truck to residential and small commercial job sites * Work independently or with a ...

We are locally owned and operated by the same leadership team behind Ace Handyman Services of NoVA ... Drive a company truck to residential and small commercial job sites * Work independently or with a ...

Inside Machinist

Newport News, VA ยท On-site

$47.50/hr

Job #215019 Chipton-Ross is seeking multiple Inside Machinist (Large Machine Operator) 2's for a ... Andrew Craft 800.927.9318 x173 acraft@chiptonross.com Chipton-Ross provides equal employment ...

Handyman

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$25/hr

We are currently seeking highly motivated professional Craftsmen and women with skills in multiple ... Sometimes taking the time to fix something small, then points out to the customer to help them ...

Maintenance Mechanic

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$20.55 - $28.78/hr

As a(an) Master Craftsman with Retreat Doctors' Hospital you can be a part of an organization that ... Operated by HCA Healthcare, Henrico Doctors' Hospitals consists of three community campuses ...

Handyman/woman

Brambleton, VA ยท On-site

$25 - $40/hr

... craftsmanship for all of their handyman needs. We are currently seeking highly motivated ... Sometimes taking the time to fix something small, then points out to the customer to help them ...

Maintenance Mechanic

Tuckahoe, VA ยท On-site

$20.55 - $28.78/hr

As a(an) Master Craftsman with Retreat Doctors' Hospital you can be a part of an organization that ... Operated by HCA Healthcare, Henrico Doctors' Hospitals consists of three community campuses ...

Showing results 41-60

Small Craft Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$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 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 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.
Infographic showing various Small Craft Operator job openings in Virginia 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 $52,689 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Tactical Data Link SME

Prevailance

Norfolk, VA โ€ข On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time, Contract
Description
Status: This position is currently filled, however we are accepting applications for Ready Replacement Pool consideration.
Prevailance Inc. is seeking a Senior Training Subject Matter Expert (SME) with Joint Interface Control Officer (JICO) or Navy Interface Control Officer (ICO) experience to support the Strike Group Interoperability Training/Readiness (SGITR) East program at Commander, Carrier Strike Group FOUR (CSG-4) in Norfolk, VA. Travel will be required.
This role provides direct support to pre-deployment training, Multi-Tactical Data Link (MTDL) planning, network operations, and Common Operational Picture (COP) / Common Tactical Picture (CTP) integration across Carrier Strike Groups (CSGs), Amphibious Ready Groups (ARGs), and Independent Deployers (IDs).
The ideal candidate brings strong operational experience in MTA/MTN planning, TDL architecture, interoperability, and fleet training support, along with the ability to advise, assess, and improve mission readiness across multiple commands.
Responsibilities include, but not limited to:
  • Provide MTA planning and pre-deployment training support for CSGs, ARGs, and Independent Deployers in alignment with FRTP, OPORDs, and DEP guidance
  • Develop and deliver TDL, COP, and CTP training plans, briefs, and status updates, incorporating fleet lessons learned
  • Review and validate operational tasking messages (e.g., OPTASK Link, ID, CEC, Air Defense, BMD) and provide compliance recommendations
  • Support training events (in-port and underway) by observing and assessing JICO/ICO/TDC operations, MTN execution, and COP/CTP management
  • Provide real-time feedback, troubleshooting guidance, and performance assessments to improve interoperability and mission readiness
  • Contribute to hot-wash sessions and After Action Reports (AARs), documenting observations, issues, and recommendations
  • Review and assess technical documentation, courseware, and training materials, providing recommendations for improvement
  • Deliver classroom instruction, tailored briefs, and stakeholder updates on MTA/MTN/COP/CTP operations and interoperability
  • Provide remote support and troubleshooting for TDL, COP, and CTP-related issues
  • Develop and execute Mobile Training Team (MTT) events, including Link operations, TWDE, CVW integration, and CEC training
  • Participate in meetings, conferences, and working groups, delivering technical guidance and prepared briefings

Requirements
Qualifications:
  • Navy Interface Control Officer (ICO) or Joint Interface Control Officer (JICO) qualified
  • Graduate of Navy ICO (A-2G-0114) course
  • CSG/ARG experience as a Systems Test Officer (STO), IP Officer, Electronic Materials Officer (EMO) or Air Defense Officer (ADO) that has attended ICO will is desired
  • Minimum of five (5) years of experience in:
    • MTA planning and operations
    • MTN and system support
    • COP/CTP interoperability and integration
    • TTP development and Distributed Engineering (DEP/JDEP)
    • JICO operations, Strike Group operations, or training staff environments
    • TDL system configuration and operation, including GCCS-M and CDLMS
  • Experience with:
    • TDL architecture planning and integration
    • Interoperability and network monitoring
    • Common Data Link Management System utilization
  • Ability to analyze operations, provide actionable recommendations, and deliver technical training and briefings
  • Physically capable of embarking Navy/Marine vessels, aircraft, and small crafts
  • Willingness to travel up to 25%, including CONUS/OCONUS and underway periods (1-3 weeks)

Education:
  • Completion of required ICO/JICO courses:
    • JT-101 (Introduction to Joint MTDL Networks)
    • JT-102 (Multi-TDL Advanced Joint Interoperability Course)
    • JT-201 (Multi-TDL Planners Course)
    • JT-310 (Advanced JICC Operators Course)
    • A-2G-0114 (Interface Control Officer Course)
  • Fully qualified JICO candidates:
    • JT-301 (Joint Interface Control Officer Course)

Security Clearance:
  • Must possess or be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI 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
$90,000 - $110,000