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Vessel Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

US Ocean LLC

Vice President of Technical Services

Tampa, FL · On-site

$170K - $219K/yr

Review financial reports and key performance indicators related to fleet maintenance and operating costs. * Maintain technical oversight of all vessel machinery, propulsion systems, auxiliary ...

osg

Assistant Technical Superintendent

Tampa, FL · On-site

$35K - $41K/yr

Logistical support of vendor repairs * Assist in creating and monitoring vessel operating budgets * Support shore side operations department in repair and maintenance for vessels including routine ...

D.C. Global Talent Inc.

Executive Chef

Miami, FL · On-site

$11K/mo

EXECUTIVE CHEF Luxury Vessel • At Sea • USD $11,500 net per month, Negotiable ABOUT THE ROLE We are searching for an Executive Chef for a luxury vessel operating at sea. This is a rare ...

Sea Hawk Maritime

Boat Operator

Naples, FL · On-site

$25 - $28/wk

Maintain all vessel equipment in good working order and ensure that vessel is clean, well-stocked ... Requirements for the Boat Operator - Tender:Must have at least 3 to 5 years of Dredging or Marine ...

Sea Hawk Maritime

Boat Operator

Naples, FL · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Boat Operator This is a great opportunity for an experienced Boat Operator - Tender who can operate ... Maintain all vessel equipment in good working order and ensure that vessel is clean, well-stocked ...

Gator Dredging

Boat Operator - Dredging

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Boat Operator This is a great opportunity for an experienced Boat Operator - Tender who can operate ... Maintain all vessel equipment in good working order and ensure that vessel is clean, well-stocked ...

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Vessel Operator information

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$18

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How much do vessel operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for vessel operator in Florida is $19.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vessel operator?

Vessel operators are professionals responsible for managing the daily operations of ships or vessels, ensuring they run efficiently and safely. Their duties include coordinating shipping schedules, communicating with ports and cargo handlers, monitoring compliance with maritime regulations, and handling any issues that arise during voyages. Vessel operators play a key role in the logistics and shipping industry, working closely with ship owners, crew, and logistics partners to oversee cargo movements and maintain optimal vessel performance.

What does a vessel operator do?

A vessel operator oversees various aspects of a ship’s operations including voyage planning, crew management, payments, and paperwork. As a ship operator, your job duties include holding meetings with stevedores, contractors, agents, and crew members; preparing productivity reports; identifying ways to increase productivity; arranging necessary service or maintenance; and handling bills of lading, letters of indemnity, and manifests. You must be a good problem solver, able to handle a variety of tasks. As a vessel operator, you may work on a cargo ship, tanker, or another type of vessel.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vessel operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vessel Operator, you need a solid understanding of maritime regulations, vessel logistics, and port operations, often supported by relevant maritime certifications or a degree in maritime studies. Familiarity with vessel tracking systems, shipping management software, and international documentation processes is typically required. Strong organizational skills, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating with crews, clients, and authorities. These competencies ensure efficient vessel operations, regulatory compliance, and safe, timely movement of cargo in the maritime industry.

What are some common challenges a vessel operator faces when coordinating shipments, and how can these be managed effectively?

Vessel Operators often encounter challenges such as unexpected port delays, last-minute changes to cargo manifests, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders across different time zones. Effective management involves proactive communication with agents, shippers, and crew, as well as closely monitoring vessel schedules and operational updates. Utilizing digital tools for real-time tracking and maintaining strong relationships with port authorities can also help resolve issues quickly and keep shipments on track.

What is the difference between Vessel Operator vs Marine Deckhand?

AspectVessel OperatorMarine Deckhand
Required CertificationsSTCW certifications, licenses for vessel operationSTCW certifications, basic safety training
Work EnvironmentBridge or control room, vessel operationDeck, exterior of vessel, cargo handling
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, maritime industryMaritime, fishing, cargo transport
Job FocusNavigation, vessel control, safetyDeck maintenance, cargo, mooring

While both roles are essential in maritime operations, Vessel Operators focus on navigating and controlling vessels, requiring specific licenses and certifications. Marine Deckhands assist with deck work, cargo, and maintenance. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position in the maritime industry.

More about Vessel Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Vessel Operator jobs in Florida?

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Cities in Florida with the most Vessel Operator job openings:

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Vessel Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vessel Operator job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,366 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Global Passenger Vessel Business Development Lead

American Bureau of Shipping

Miami, FL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

American Bureau Of Shipping rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 495 rated business services

Job description


The Global Passenger Vessel Business Development Lead is responsible for developing and advancing ABS' Business Development (BD) strategy for the global passenger vessel market, aligning client needs, market opportunities, and industry trends with ABS capabilities to support growth. Based in Miami, this role will help strengthen ABS' visibility, client engagement, and commercial success across the global passenger vessel sector.
What You Will Do:
  • Develop and execute business development plans for the global passenger vessel market to support growth and expand ABS market presence.
  • Identify and pursue opportunities across new construction, retrofit, modernization, decarbonization, digitalization, and lifecycle support services.
  • Build and maintain relationships with owners, operators, shipyards, designers, suppliers, and other key stakeholders across the passenger vessel market.
  • Partner with business development and cross-functional teams to support proposals, client engagement, and the pursuit of new business opportunities.
  • Represent ABS in client meetings, industry events, conferences, and forums to strengthen market visibility and sector credibility.
  • Monitor market conditions, competitor activity, regulatory developments, and emerging client needs to support business decisions and market strategy.
  • Provide market insight to help align ABS services and capabilities with customer demand and evolving industry trends.
  • Support key account activities and help promote ABS services and solutions throughout the business community.

What You Will Need:
Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree or recognized equivalent required.
  • MBA or equivalent preferred.
  • Ten (10) or more years of related experience.
  • Experience in one or more relevant sectors, including passenger vessels, cruise, ferries, RoPax, commercial marine, shipbuilding and repair, or related maritime services.
  • Experience in business development, market strategy, client engagement, or sector leadership within the maritime industry is strongly preferred.
  • Global market experience within the passenger vessel segment is strongly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Strong understanding of passenger vessel market dynamics, including fleet renewal, sustainability, emissions reduction, safety, and regulatory developments.
  • Demonstrated technical and/or commercial expertise related to vessel operations, shipbuilding, retrofit activity, classification, certification, or marine services.
  • Strong business judgment and the ability to identify, assess, and advance commercial opportunities.
  • Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage effectively with both commercial and technical stakeholders.
  • English language fluency required to conduct detailed business and technical communication at a professional level.
  • Ability to develop a working knowledge of ABS Rules, Guides, statutory regulations, and related instructions, as well as the ABS Employee Safety Policy.

Reporting Relationships:
Reports to a senior leader within the business development organization.
About Us
We set out more than 160 years ago to promote the security of life and property at sea and preserve the natural environment. Today, we remain true to our mission and continue to support organizations facing a rapidly evolving seascape of challenging regulations and new technologies. Through it all, we are anchored by a vision and mission that help our clients find clarity in uncertain times.
ABS is a global leader in marine and offshore classification and other innovative safety, quality, and environmental services. We're at the forefront of supporting the global energy transition at sea, the application of remote and autonomous marine systems, cutting-edge technical solutions, and many more exciting advancements. Our commitment to safety, reliability, and efficiency is ever-present, guiding our clients to safer and more efficient operations.
Equal Opportunity
ABS Bureau is committed to the equal employment opportunity of its employees and prohibits discrimination against any employee or qualified applicant based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship status or veteran status, or other non-work-related characteristics that may be protected under the law of the Federal Government or specific state employment laws.
Notice
ABS and Affiliated Companies (ABS) will not pay a fee to any third-party agency without a valid ABS Master Service Agreement (MSA) authorized and signed by Human Resources. Any resume, CV, application, or other forms of candidate submission provided to any employee of ABS without a valid MSA on file will be considered property of ABS, and no fee will be paid.
Other
This job description is not intended, and should not be construed, to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job of the incumbent. It is intended to be an accurate reflection of the principal job elements essential for making a fair decision regarding the pay structure of the job. #ogjs

What American Bureau Of Shipping employees say

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About American Bureau of Shipping

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ABS is committed to setting standards for safety and excellence as one of the world’s leading classification organizations. In a constantly evolving industry, ABS works alongside its partners tackling the most pressing technical, operational and regulatory challenges so the marine and offshore industries can operate safely, securely and responsibly. For more than 150 years, ABS has been at the forefront of marine and offshore energy innovation. We work alongside our partners tackling the most pressing technical, operational and regulatory challenges so the marine and offshore industries can operate safely, securely and responsibly. We provide traditional classification services as well as on-the-ground technical services in asset performance, energy efficiency, environmental performance and life cycle management. With a passion for making the world a safer place, while also delivering practical and innovative solutions, we stand ready to assist and advance the marine and offshore energy industries.

Industry

Water transportation

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Spring, TX, US

Year founded

1862

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