Vessel Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CDFW's Interagency Ecological Program (IEP) is seeking Mates, vessel operators, to pilot a fleet of diesel-powered and gasoline-powered research vessels up to 42 feet in length.
The main duty of the Mate is to safely navigate vessels and operate a variety of aquatic sampling gear with the help of a field crew within the San Francisco Bay & Delta. In addition to directing the safe operation of our vessels and crew, Mates ensure the longevity of the fleet with regular upkeep and maintenance. Mates are also trained and will occasionally assist as deck hands to aid vessel operations, assist with sampling gear, and on occasion will assist with fish handling and identification.
When not on the water, Mates partner up with senior fleet operations staff to maintain vessels, and assist scientific staff to help prep vessels, maintain and repair field gear (nets, hardware and other equipment). These create opportunities for skill development in vessel repair, hydraulic system repair, welding, net repair and fish identification. Mates will have an opportunity to accumulate skills and at-sea time for earning (dependent on funding) or maintaining a Coast Guard Captain's License.
More information on the IEP and can be found at: https://iep.ca.gov/
Link to Mate, Fish and Game Vessel Exam: CalCareers
Personal Leave Program: Effective July 1, 2025, state employees are subject to temporary salary reductions ranging from 2% to 4.62% in exchange for Personal Leave Program (PLP) hours. Please note that the salary ranges listed in this Job Control may not reflect these reductions associated with the 2025 Personal Leave Program.
Please follow the link for more information regarding the 2025 Personal Leave program:
Personal Leave Program - Human Resources - CalHR .
This position may be eligible for a telework opportunity in accordance with departmental policies and operational needs. Beginning July 1, 2026, employees will be required to work in-person at least four (4) days per week in alignment with Executive Order N-22-25. Additional in-office days may be required based on operational needs.
This position is being re-advertised. If you previously applied, your application is being considered and you do not need to re-apply.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
In completing field duties and other work business, being a passenger in or driver of cars, trucks, and vans on public roads is expected. Must possess a valid Class C or non-commercial Class A driver's license. Must be able to operate a motor vehicle and equipment and be prepared to travel using a State vehicle. Involves up to 15 days a month working aboard research vessels, which (1) requires starting work early, (2) often requires working in excess of 8 hours per day, (3) requires standing, sitting, kneeling, reaching, lifting up to 50 pounds, physical agility and strength, the ability to swim at least 50 yards and stay afloat for at least five minutes, and immunity from seasickness. (4) Field conditions may involve a variety of inclement weather conditions including rough seas, high temperatures, cold and fog, and occasional exposure to wildfire smoke. Field days will involve early starts, and late returns and may involve long commutes to the field location and occasional overnight travel (up to 5%). Research vessels often work in remote locations and crews may be asked to spend 8 hours or more outdoors. (5) Frequently requires handling fish. Wearing a Department of Fish and Wildlife uniform is required as a condition of employment while conducting field work and public work duties.
This position is located at the Bay Delta Region (Region 3) office in Stockton, California.
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.

• MATE, FISH AND GAME VESSEL

Additional Documents

• Job Application Package Checklist
• Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-511752
Position #(s):
565-323-6986-008
Working Title:
Mate, Fish and Game Vessel
Classification:
MATE, FISH AND GAME VESSEL $5,316.00 - $6,365.00
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
San Joaquin County
Telework:
In Office
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) employees are committed to managing and protecting California's diverse wildlife and the habitats upon which they depend.
California is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. As such, CDFW values diverse employees working together to protect nature for all Californians. CDFW is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where all backgrounds, cultures and personal experiences can thrive and connect others to our critical mission.
Join us and begin a meaningful new career!
Department Website: https://www.wildlife.ca.gov
Special Requirements Reliability and willingness to work unusual hours and on Saturday, Sunday, and holidays. Comfortable working around the water. Physical agility and strength, ability to elevate 50 pounds, swim at least 50 yards, and stay afloat for at least five minutes.
This position requires possession of a valid Class C or non-commercial Class A Driver's License. Must maintain a clean driving record. The selected candidate may be required to provide a photocopy (front and back) of the license: Name as stated on the license, issuing state, DL #, Class, expiration.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 8/15/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Individuals who are eligible for a Training and Development assignment may also be considered for this position(s). Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Fish and Wildlife
HRB Mailing Address (PO Box)
Attn: Human Resources Branch
P.O. Box 944209
Sacramento , CA 94244
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Fish and Wildlife
Closed Drop Off Location
Human Resources Branch
Temporarily Closed
See Filing Instructions
Sacramento , CA 95814
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

• Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
• Resume is required and must be included.
• Statement of Qualifications - A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required. Please see below for SOQ instructions. Failure to include the SOQ will result in an incomplete application submission.
  In order to be considered for this position, you must provide responses to the supplemental questionnaire below with your State application. Please keep your collective answers to no more than two pages, using 12-point Arial font, 1.5 line spacing, and one-inch margins (all sides). Candidates' responses to the questions will be used to supplement their qualifications for the position. Applicants whose responses to the supplemental questions that do not follow these directions or are unrelated to the prompt may be eliminated from further consideration.
  The supplemental questionnaire must clearly respond to each of the following questions:
  1. Describe your experience operating motor vessels for research or other purposes (state size of vessels and type).
  2. Describe your experience maintaining machinery including motor vessels.
  3. Describe your experience maintaining/repairing sampling gear and associated equipment (state type of gear).
  4. Describe your experience with fishing or fisheries monitoring.
• Other - A Cover Letter is required and must be submitted along with your STD 678 application. Failure to include a Cover Letter will result in an incomplete application submission.

Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
Experience in:
- Operating motor vessels
- Aquatic monitoring and/or research
- Maintenance of machinery, including vessels
- Net mending and construction
- General mechanic abilities
- Fishing or fisheries
Knowledge of: Waterways of the San Francisco Estuary, including the Delta.
Skill to: Efficiently and effectively read, write, and speak English; construct, hang, mend, and store nets of all types; navigate boats from station to station, then operate boats towing nets to prescribed tow schedules; provide and accept feedback, act in the capacity of a lead, collaborate with team members, organize tasks, prioritize tasks, and shift rapidly from task to task as priorities dictate; and use a personal computer and software (e.g., Internet Explorer, Excel, and Outlook).
Advanced Maritime Certification: While the basic operation of research vessels is essential, a candidate with advanced maritime certifications or a background in marine engineering would be highly desirable.
Prior Experience: Hands-on experience with scientific fieldwork, especially fisheries science, or commercial fisheries would provide an added advantage.
Tech-Savvy: Familiarity with modern marine technology; GPS systems, AIS systems, sonar and engine troubleshooting software.
Leadership Experience: Previous roles that required team leadership or training, emphasizing safety and efficiency on a research vessel, are a definite plus.
Communication Skills: An individual who has experience in effectively conveying technical details to a non-technical audience can bridge the gap between research and understanding.
Environment Conservation Passion: Demonstrated interest or involvement in environmental conservation or marine preservation initiatives would align well with our mission and ethos.
Advanced First Aid Training: Having certifications such as Advanced First Aid or Marine First Aid could be crucial in emergencies and showcases a commitment to onboard safety.
Diverse Net Knowledge: Beyond basic nets, a deeper understanding and experience with a wide range of marine sampling gear would be advantageous.
Adaptability: Experience in working under varying conditions, from serene to rough waters, and the ability to quickly adapt to unforeseen challenges.
Collaboration & Networking: Existing affiliations or collaborations with marine institutions or a commercial fisheries industry can provide valuable synergies.
Project Management Skills: Experience in handling multiple tasks, coordinating teams, and ensuring the timely accomplishment of projects demonstrates organizational prowess.
Cultural Awareness: Experience working in diverse teams or multicultural settings can foster a more inclusive work environment.
Benefits Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website: https://www.wildlife.ca.gov
Hiring Unit Contact:
April Hennessy
(209) 875-3277
April.Hennessy@wildlife.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Civil Rights Office
(916) 902-9211
civilrights@wildlife.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommu