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Trainee Vessel Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Engineer

Galveston, TX · On-site

$64K - $136K/yr

... Engineer Trainee Minimum endorsement as a national assistant engineer 6000 HP or national ... the vessel is operating seaward of the jetties, the above section also applies. This includes ...

Engineer

Galveston, TX · On-site

$64K - $136K/yr

... Engineer Trainee Minimum endorsement as a national assistant engineer 6000 HP or national ... the vessel is operating seaward of the jetties, the above section also applies. This includes ...

Engineer

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

$64K - $136K/yr

... Engineer Trainee Minimum endorsement as a national assistant engineer 6000 HP or national ... the vessel is operating seaward of the jetties, the above section also applies. This includes ...

Engineer

Brownsville, TX · On-site

$64K - $136K/yr

... Engineer Trainee Minimum endorsement as a national assistant engineer 6000 HP or national ... the vessel is operating seaward of the jetties, the above section also applies. This includes ...

Engineer

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

$64K - $136K/yr

... Engineer Trainee Minimum endorsement as a national assistant engineer 6000 HP or national ... the vessel is operating seaward of the jetties, the above section also applies. This includes ...

Engineer

Brownsville, TX · On-site

$64K - $136K/yr

... Engineer Trainee Minimum endorsement as a national assistant engineer 6000 HP or national ... the vessel is operating seaward of the jetties, the above section also applies. This includes ...

Captains are responsible for the safety of the vessel, guests, and crew while in command. They run ... Sail endorsement. * Marine Radio Operators Permit. * CPR, AED, and First Aid certified.

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Trainee Vessel Operator information

See salary details

$25.5K

$43.5K

$63.5K

How much do trainee vessel operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee vessel operator in the United States is $43,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,000.00 and $51,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Trainee Vessel Operator vs Deckhand?

AspectTrainee Vessel OperatorDeckhand
Required CertificationsBasic STCW certifications, safety trainingBasic safety training, STCW certifications often required
Work EnvironmentOnboard vessels, learning operational dutiesOnboard vessels, assisting with maintenance and safety
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, maritime training programsShipping companies, fishing, and cargo vessels

Both roles operate onboard vessels and require safety certifications. A Trainee Vessel Operator focuses on learning vessel operation and navigation, often as part of a training program, while a Deckhand performs maintenance, safety, and support tasks. The Trainee Vessel Operator role is more specialized towards vessel control, whereas Deckhands handle general onboard duties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee Vessel Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Vessel Operator, you need a basic understanding of maritime operations, logistics, and preferably a relevant degree or maritime certifications. Familiarity with vessel management systems, shipping software, and compliance documentation is typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and attention to detail are essential soft skills for coordinating operations and ensuring safety. These skills and qualifications are crucial for efficient vessel scheduling, regulatory compliance, and effective collaboration within maritime teams.

What are some common challenges new Trainee Vessel Operators face during their initial months on the job?

New Trainee Vessel Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced and dynamic nature of shipping operations, learning complex vessel scheduling systems, and understanding international maritime regulations. Building effective communication with captains, agents, and port authorities can also be daunting at first. However, most companies offer comprehensive training and mentorship programs to help trainees gain confidence and proficiency in handling these tasks over time.

What are Trainee Vessel Operators?

Trainee Vessel Operators are entry-level professionals who assist in managing and coordinating the operations of ships, such as cargo vessels or tankers. Their responsibilities typically include supporting senior vessel operators in planning voyages, monitoring ship movements, liaising with ports, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. This role provides hands-on training and exposure to maritime logistics, with the goal of preparing trainees for more senior operational roles within shipping companies.
More about Trainee Vessel Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee Vessel Operator jobs? Cities with the most Trainee Vessel Operator job openings:
What states have the most Trainee Vessel Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Vessel Operator jobs include:
Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

Oxbow Corporation

Texas City, TX • On-site

$26.15/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Description
LOCAL CANDIDATES ONLY
Founded in 1983 by principal shareholder William I. Koch, Oxbow Carbon LLC ("Oxbow") is a global leader in recycling, marketing, and upgrading of refinery and natural gas coproducts. Oxbow produces and distributes calcined and fuel grade petroleum coke and provides bulk storage and handling services for petroleum coke and other commodities. Leveraging its extensive scale, strong expertise, and leading market positions, Oxbow has established a powerful global sourcing platform supported by superior market intelligence and long-standing relationships with key suppliers and customers. Oxbow's products are essential in the production of aluminum, steel, glass, and cement, while its specialty offerings are integral to a variety of innovative applications, including high-performance plastics, solar panels, electronics, and batteries. Oxbow's continued success and leadership within the industry are attributed to a combination of strong teamwork, innovative uses of technology, and talented employees.
Oxbow is currently looking for an Operator Trainee 1 to join our team in Texas City, Texas. This position will be responsible for learning to operate heavy mobile equipment to insure maximum contribution to the safety, quality, and productivity of the plant and completion of essential job duties.
Essential Job Duties
  • Train in operation and minor maintenance of all on-site mobile equipment.
  • Conduct readiness and repair inspections on heavy equipment and vehicles on-site.
  • Responsible for routine maintenance on equipment, such as lubricating, fueling, and cleaning
  • Operate articulated rubber-tired front-end loader to scoop, lift and transport bulk materials from storage areas to feed conveyors, hoppers and to load trucks or railcars.
  • Operate bulldozer to stockpile inbound bulk materials in storage areas and load material to conveyor systems during vessel loadings.
  • Notify the duty supervisor of any equipment malfunction during operation.
  • Perform housekeeping duties throughout the plant as needed.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area free of trash or debris
  • All other duties as assigned by supervision.
  • Complete required work permits, safety documents, inspection reports as required.
  • Assists in the development of written safety procedures prepared for job tasks (JSA)
  • Performs work in a highly functional and consistent manner that meets the job specifications.
  • Ensures compliance with safety, personnel, attendance and other plant procedures or guidelines

Requirements
Education and Experience
  • High school diploma required.
  • Certification in related fields preferred
  • Two years of industrial experience preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Ability to establish effective professional working relationships with coworkers and customers, contributing to a cooperative working environment and successful accomplishment of the job.
  • Knowledge or experience with heavy equipment, mechanical and industrial setting preferred.
  • Ability and willingness to use computers, computer base training and possible off-site schooling.

Physical and Other Requirements
  • Typically works in plant environment, which may include extreme working conditions and inclement weather conditions.
  • As needed, lifts, carries or otherwise moves and positions objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to work in confined spaces and in elevated work areas.
  • Must be able to handle working with petroleum coke products.
  • Must be able to work with wrenches, pipe wrenches and other tools; requires turning and tightening nuts and bolts.
  • Must be able to load and unload heavy materials, either with manual labor or by operating heavy machinery.
  • Must train in safety requirements at the facility.
  • Ability to communicate or exchange ideas by means of verbal or written word in English
  • Work requires weekends and night shifts
  • Must possess a valid US Driver's License.
  • Must possess or be able to obtain a Transportation Worker's Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Must be able to pass pre-employment drug screening
  • Must be able to pass general physical testing.

OXBOW logo

About OXBOW

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Oil and gas extraction

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

West Palm Beach, FL, US

Year founded

1983