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Vessel Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$43K - $75K/yr

Work in this class involves full responsibility for supervising and coordinating activities of vessel personnel engaged in operating and maintaining propulsion and other engines, generators, deck ...

Utilize NMEA 200 and other protocols on vessel operating systems * Assign parts and purchases to the appropriate work orders * Must possess own tools * Availability to work overtime in order to meet ...

Terminal Operator - Pier IX

Newport News, VA · On-site

$27.45 - $28.55/hr

Work effectively with supervisors, coworkers, contractors, and vessel personnel. * Report to work ... Experience operating heavy equipment such as front-end loaders, bulldozers, forklifts, or similar ...

Terminal Operator - Pier IX

Newport News, VA · On-site

$27.45 - $28.55/hr

Work effectively with supervisors, coworkers, contractors, and vessel personnel. * Report to work ... Experience operating heavy equipment such as front-end loaders, bulldozers, forklifts, or similar ...

Terminal Operator - Pier IX

Newport News, VA · On-site

$27.45 - $28.55/hr

Work effectively with supervisors, coworkers, contractors, and vessel personnel. * Report to work ... Experience operating heavy equipment such as front-end loaders, bulldozers, forklifts, or similar ...

Terminal Operator - Pier IX

Newport News, VA · On-site

$27.45 - $28.55/hr

Work effectively with supervisors, coworkers, contractors, and vessel personnel. * Report to work ... Experience operating heavy equipment such as front-end loaders, bulldozers, forklifts, or similar ...

Terminal Operator - Pier IX

Newport News, VA · On-site

$27.45 - $28.55/hr

Work effectively with supervisors, coworkers, contractors, and vessel personnel. * Report to work ... Experience operating heavy equipment such as front-end loaders, bulldozers, forklifts, or similar ...

... rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals. Ability to communicate ... Samuel Pressure Vessel Group is a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of ...

... rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals. Ability to communicate ... Samuel Pressure Vessel Group is a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of ...

Minimum of five (5) years of marine engineering or vessel machinery experience. * Knowledge of operating and monitoring main engines and auxiliary machinery aboard ferry vessels. * Experience working ...

Minimum of five (5) years of marine engineering or vessel machinery experience. Knowledge of operating and monitoring main engines and auxiliary machinery aboard ferry vessels. Experience working ...

Operator - South Hill

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$28.91 - $32.65/hr

Extensive training in railcar, truck, warehousing, vessel operations, safety and environmental ... operating in North America. Access to reliable, affordable energy is a critical component for ...

Coast Guard inspections and regulatory compliance. * Assist with troubleshooting and repair of primary and auxiliary vessel systems. * Record and document daily fuel readings and machinery operating ...

Showing results 21-40

Vessel Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$22

$23

$25

How much do vessel operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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.

What are popular job titles related to Vessel Operator jobs in Virginia?

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

What are popular job titles related to Vessel Operator jobs in VA?

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

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.

Manager, Maritime Support Vessel (MSV) - Location: Norfolk, VA

Constellation Navigation and Trading, LLC

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 hours ago


Job description

U. S. Marine Management Position Description

A key player in the maritime industry, USMMI expertly manages a diverse fleet of ships. Our expertise implementing maritime contracts, makes us a pivotal force in global commerce and government operations, notably with the U.S. Military Sealift Command and the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Tanker Security Program (TSP).

As a Jones Act qualified company, we adhere to the highest U.S. shipping standards. USMMI also operate a variety of non-Jones Act qualified ships. Our specialized capabilities in ship design, project management, and conversion allow us to provide tailored and innovative solutions that address the dynamic needs of our clients with precision and efficiency.

Our Vision

To solve the worlds hardest maritime challenges for a better future

Our Mission

To provide excellence and reliability in all aspects of ship operations and management services; while affording our shipboard crews and shoreside colleagues a safe, secure, and rewarding work environment.

Disclaimer: - The purpose of this document is to provide a summary of the generic functions/tasks associated with this position. It is not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible position responsibilities, tasks, and duties. The responsibilities, tasks, and duties of the incumbent might differ from those outlined here and additional duties may be assigned at the manager’s discretion. The position description details as outlined below are also subject to change or reassigned at any time.

  • Business Title: Manager, Maritime Support Vessel (MSV)
  • Supervisory Responsibilities: Yes
  • Overtime Eligible: No
  • Supervisor: Director, Operations


Purpose/Summary:

The Manager, MSV is responsible for overseeing daily operations of the Maritime Support Vessel(s), including engineering and logistics support, regulatory compliance, safety, and budget. The Manager, MSV, will report to the Director, Operations. The Manager has budgetary/expense responsibility/approval for the program including ship maintenance, engineering, spare parts, repairs, and logistics costs.

The Manager, MSV, works from USMMI’s Norfolk VA office but will periodically travel to the ship and to meetings with the government and supporting contractors. Specific assignments may change periodically depending on the current needs of the company.

Key Responsibilities:


  • Responsible for day-to-day operations of MSV and MSV program performance metrics including safety, budget, operating costs, reliability, planning, regulatory and contract compliance.
  • Provide oversight for vessel Masters and Chief Engineers to ensure that missions/voyages are efficiently and safely performed in accordance with contract requirements.
  • Provide oversight for subordinate Port Captains/Port Coordinators and Port Engineers.
  • Oversee the planning and execution of maintenance, repairs, classification surveys, regulatory surveys, certifications and accreditations (USCG and USG), equipment upgrades and similar tasks.
  • Coordinate with the crewing department to facilitate crew selections, advancements, rotations, and disciplinary action when required.
  • Coordinate with the contracts department to ensure contract and FAR/DFAR compliance, develop consent requests, and work with the contracting officer to review contract modifications.
  • Act as the operations/maintenance/readiness point of contact with the customer/charterer.
  • Be an advocate for shipboard safety, the company safety culture and actively support timely attention to any safety issue.
  • Responsible for internal USMMI coordination of special projects, engineering and logistics matters to ensure contract or charter party compliance and customer satisfaction.
  • Review the vessel safety committee meeting minutes and oversee timely follow-up of issues identified.
  • Performs other position-related duties as specified by management.


Position Specifications:

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor’s degree required (degree must be from an accredited institution).
  • 5-10 years’ experience managing marine operation/technical personnel or
  • 5-10 years’ experience in ship operations, repair and maintenance or
  • 5-10 years’ experience with flag state, port state, and class society requirements.
  • Ability to travel extensively both domestically and internationally and to support assigned fleet.
  • Experience as a Captain or OIC of a naval auxiliary vessel preferred
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Must be able to obtain a Secret security clearance from the Defense Security Service (DSS).
  • Experience with maritime maintenance management applications and program management applications is required. Experience with Nautical Systems (NS) is desirable.
  • Supervisory experience required with demonstrated ability to lead and direct teams with differing backgrounds and skill sets.
  • Random drug testing required.
Technical Skills and Competencies Required
  • Technical Skills and Competencies Desired
  • Advanced degree in Engineering, Marine Transportation or Business.
  • Experience operating U.S. Navy or U.S. Coast Guard aviation capable ships.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in variety of forums, internal and external.
  • Superior writing and documentation skills.
  • Advanced communication, negotiation, conflict resolution capabilities.
  • Must possess a working knowledge of key business financial measurements (ROI, NPV, RONA, etc.).
  • A decisive individual who possesses a "big picture" perspective and is well versed in systems.
  • Rely on considerable experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals.
  • Good relationship building/interpersonal and influencing skills - ability to work with diverse groups and gain groups consensus.
  • Good working knowledge of MS Office Products (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Planner, Teams) and the ability to quickly grasp and work with new systems.
  • Strong tactical planning skills

Learning Description:

  • ISM / ISO Certifications – Trends & Requirements
  • USCG/IMO/IACS Regulatory requirements and trends
  • Networking and Collaboration
  • Analysis and Problem Solving
  • Influencing, conflict resolution and Negotiation
  • Team management
  • Change Management
  • Performance Assessment

Travel Requirements:

Extensive travel (including foreign travel and travel in cars, boats, ships, helicopters, and airplanes) will be required to attend to shipyard maintenance, to ride vessel or visit vessel for quality assurance and general management of vessel and crews, and on short notice for casualties, to conduct investigations and to protect the company’s reputation, as is required by the contract specifications, or as directed by management.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

General office setting, typically the employee may sit comfortably to perform the work, usually at a computer terminal with short breaks or lunch period. However, there may be some bending/stooping, reaching above shoulder level, walking; standing; carrying of light items such as papers, books, or packages of up to 25 pounds. You should be able to hear & speak clearly using phone / headset to communicate with customers; be able to navigate, view & enter information on the computer.

Operations Setting: typically, the employee must be able to Sit, Stand, Walk, Bend, Push/Pull, Kneel, Squat, Reaching and Twisting. Also need the ability to consistently be able to lift 10lb – 100lb utilizing Folding Hand Truck & Dolly, Rolling Utility Carts or Single Hand Trucks (70 – 100%) of time