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Vessel Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Lynker Corporation

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$45K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsibilities Duties of the Uncrewed Vessel Operator will include, but not be limited to, the following: • The primary duty of a UxS Operator is to stand pilot watches with the responsibility of ...

Lynker Corporation

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA

$45K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Duties of the Uncrewed Vessel Operator will include, but not be limited to, the following: The primary duty of a UxS Operator is to stand pilot watches with the responsibility of maintaining the ...

Lynker Corporation

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsibilities Duties of the Uncrewed Vessel Operator will include, but not be limited to, the following: The primary duty of a UxS Operator is to stand pilot watches with the responsibility of ...

HES Facilities

HVAC Technician - 5072

Danville, VA

Proficient steam boiler and pressure vessel operator * Perform major and routine maintenance, service, repair and installations on all heating and ventilating equipment and controls as assigned.

Site Worker

Crane Operator

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$38/hr

Crane Operator Location: Portsmouth, VA Pay: $38 to $43/hour (depending on experience) Job Summary ... Coordinate lift timing and access with shipyard safety officers, trade supervisors, and vessel ...

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All JobsVessel Operator JobsVessel Operator Jobs in Virginia

Vessel Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$22

$23

$25

How much do vessel operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for vessel operator in Virginia is $23.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.85 and $23.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.
More about Vessel Operator jobs

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What job categories do people searching Vessel Operator jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Vessel Operator jobs in Virginia are:

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For Vessel Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Vessel Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vessel Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,602 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Lynker Corporation

Leesburg, VA • On-site

$45K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Overview
The mission of Lynker Corporation is to deliver innovative solutions to support global environmental security and economic prosperity as a trusted partner to governments, communities, and industry. With the growing demand for offshore energy expansion, marine natural resource management, and coastal resilience to environmental threats, there has been a need for more advanced and efficient hydrographic mapping systems. Lynker leverages cutting-edge technologies and scientific expertise to support the expansion of mapping across the US Exclusive Economic Zone using Uncrewed Systems (UxS), which include Uncrewed Surface Vehicles (USV), Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles (UUV), and Underwater Gliders. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for innovation, Lynker is leading the way in providing operational, logistical, and training support for Uncrewed Systems.
We are seeking individuals who can help our team support our contract with NOAA Uncrewed Marine Systems Division (UMSD) and other partners in UxS Industry. The Uncrewed Systems Operator must have experience operating hydrographic survey or oceanographic research technologies. This position involves travelling for long durations at sea aboard vessels or to Remote Operations Centers (ROC). A strong background in marine science, information technology, or mechanical engineering is desirable. If you are interested in joining a dynamic team and working with advanced marine technologies, please review the Responsibilities, Qualifications, and Requirements for this position.
This position is contingent upon contract award.
Responsibilities
Duties of the Uncrewed Vessel Operator will include, but not be limited to, the following:
• The primary duty of a UxS Operator is to stand pilot watches with the responsibility of maintaining the safety of the public and of the vessel while at sea under semi-autonomous operations.
• 8-12hr night or day watches based in a regional Remote Operating Center, or from a host vessel at sea
• Ensure the safety of navigation and situational awareness of the vehicle during operations
• Additional duties include monitoring vessel status feedback, telemetry stability and configuration, and basic data acquisition control
• Operators are responsible for troubleshooting technical and software issues, and relaying that information to the watch supervisor.
• Proper record keeping during watches and in diagnostic scenarios
Qualifications
The Uncrewed Vessel Operator selected should have the following:
• Associates Degree or higher in at least one of the following: Marine Technology, Marine Science, Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering
• Support operations at sea on board NOAA vessels, or at a regional remote operation center, for up to 30 consecutive days at a time
• Ability to lift >45 lb. objects, climb ladders, and work in confined spaces.
• Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively in an interagency atmosphere.
• Yearly travel 50% or more
The Ideal Uncrewed Vessel Operator will have the Following:
• Experience operating USVs, UUVs, or Underwater Gliders is desired.
• Experience in boat handling and seamanship: licensed boater or captain is desired.
• Experience implementing COLREGs into the safety of navigation of UxS.
• Experience with operating satellite, cellular, and RF telemetry systems
• Experience with maritime situational awareness using AIS,FLIR, ECDIS, LiDAR, and RADAR.
• Experience with data acquisition using Multibeam Sonars, Side Scan Sonars, and acoustic systems is desired.
• Experience with marine positioning systems using GNSS, INS/IMU, or USBL.
About Lynker
Lynker is a growing, employee owned, small business, specializing in professional, scientific and technical services. Our continually expanding team combines scientific expertise with mature, results-driven processes and tools to achieve technically sound, cost effective solutions in hydrology/water sciences, geospatial analysis, information technology, resource management, conservation, and management and business process improvement.
We focus on putting the right people in the right place to be effective. And having the right people is critical for success. Our streamlined organization enables and empowers our talented professionals to tackle our customers' scientific and technical priorities - creatively and effectively.
Lynker offers a team-oriented work environment, and the opportunity to work in a culture of exceptionally skilled and diverse professionals who embrace sound science and creative solutions. Lynker's benefits include the following:
  • Comprehensive healthcare for the employee at no monthly cost
  • Healthcare benefit covers medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision
  • Personal Time Off (PTO) Policy plus paid holidays
  • Highly competitive compensation plan regularly calibrated against industry and location benchmarks
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company-matching
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) - we're all company owners!
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Employee assistance program (EAP)
  • Short- and long-term disability insurance
  • Life and accident insurance
  • Tuition assistance/Training/Workforce improvement reimbursement per year
  • Spot bonuses for exceptional performance
  • Annual Employee Recognition Awards with bonuses
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Free centralized, self-directed Learning Management System to learn at your own pace
  • Personalized career growth plans for every employee

Lynker is an equal opportunity employer and makes all employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local laws.
⚠ Fraud Alert: Recruitment Scam Warning: Lynker has been made aware of fraudulent individuals posing as Lynker recruiters and offering fake job opportunities. All legitimate Lynker job postings are listed on our official careers page. Communication from Lynker recruiters will come from an official @lynker.com email address.

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