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Vessel Traffic Control Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

State Park Peace Officer

El Segundo, CA ยท On-site

$52K - $70K/yr

... by vehicle, vessel, horse, or foot; enforce park regulations, state laws, and applicable codes ... traffic control and dispatching as needed. Specialized assignments may include cliff/technical ...

S. export control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ... Passion for taking a vessel from a blank sheet to on-water validation * Comfortable pushing at a ...

S. export control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ... Passion for taking a vessel from a blank sheet to on-water validation * Comfortable pushing at a ...

Electrical Engineer

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$115K/yr

We're rethinking powertrains, software, and vessel designs from first principles. And we're already ... S. export control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ...

Electrical Engineer

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$115K/yr

We're rethinking powertrains, software, and vessel designs from first principles. And we're already ... S. export control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ...

Electrical Systems Engineer

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

We're rethinking powertrains, software, and vessel designs from first principles. And we're already ... S. export control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ...

Electrical Systems Engineer

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

We're rethinking powertrains, software, and vessel designs from first principles. And we're already ... S. export control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ...

Sales Application Engineer

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$108K - $134K/yr

We're rethinking powertrains, software, and vessel designs from first principles. And we're already ... S. export control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ...

Sales Application Engineer

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$108K - $134K/yr

We're rethinking powertrains, software, and vessel designs from first principles. And we're already ... S. export control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ...

Mechanical Engineer

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$150K/yr

We're rethinking powertrains, software, and vessel designs from first principles. And we're already ... S. export control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ...

Mechanical Engineer

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$150K/yr

We're rethinking powertrains, software, and vessel designs from first principles. And we're already ... S. export control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ...

Build Engineer

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$125K/yr

We're rethinking powertrains, software, and vessel designs from first principles. And we're already ... S. export control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ...

We're rethinking powertrains, software, and vessel designs from first principles. And we're already ... S. export control laws, applicants must be a U.S. Person as defined by the International Traffic in ...

We're rethinking powertrains, software, and vessel designs from first principles. And we're already ... S. export control laws, applicants must be a U.S. Person as defined by the International Traffic in ...

Build Engineer

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$125K/yr

We're rethinking powertrains, software, and vessel designs from first principles. And we're already ... S. export control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ...

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Showing results 1-20

Vessel Traffic Control information

See California salary details

$25.2K

$91.2K

$179.6K

How much do vessel traffic control jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for vessel traffic control in California is $91,247.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,700.00 and $117,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vessel traffic control?

A Vessel Traffic Control job involves monitoring and managing the movement of ships in and around ports, harbors, and busy waterways to ensure safe and efficient navigation. Professionals in this role use radar, radio communication, and traffic management systems to coordinate vessel movements, prevent collisions, and respond to emergencies. They work closely with port authorities, coast guards, and shipping operators to enforce maritime regulations and maintain orderly traffic flow. This role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of maritime operations.

What skills and qualifications are needed for vessel traffic control?

To thrive as a Vessel Traffic Control professional, you need strong situational awareness, knowledge of maritime navigation regulations, and typically a relevant maritime or nautical qualification. Familiarity with vessel tracking systems (such as AIS and radar), radio communication equipment, and sometimes certifications like VTS (Vessel Traffic Service) Operator certification are important. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are key soft skills valued in this role. These skills are crucial for maintaining safe and efficient vessel movements, preventing accidents, and ensuring smooth port or waterway operations.

What are common challenges faced by vessel traffic control professionals?

Vessel Traffic Control professionals frequently deal with challenges such as managing multiple vessels in congested waterways, adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions, and responding quickly to emergencies or unexpected incidents. The work often requires maintaining high levels of concentration for long periods and effectively communicating with ship crews, harbor authorities, and other stakeholders. Working in this high-pressure environment demands decisiveness and the ability to remain calm under stress. Despite these challenges, many in the role find it rewarding to play such a vital part in ensuring maritime safety and efficient port operations.

How to become a vessel traffic control?

To become a vessel traffic controller, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification in maritime or port operations. Many positions require prior experience in navigation, communications, or related fields, and candidates often must pass background checks and medical examinations. Certification from relevant maritime authorities or agencies may also be required depending on the region or employer.

What training is required for vessel traffic controllers?

Vessel traffic controllers typically need to complete specialized training programs that include classroom instruction, simulation exercises, and on-the-job training. They often require certification from maritime authorities and must demonstrate knowledge of navigation rules, communication procedures, and safety protocols before working independently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Vessel Traffic Control jobs in California?

The most popular types of Vessel Traffic Control jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Vessel Traffic Control jobs in California?

For Vessel Traffic Control jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Vessel Traffic Control jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Vessel Traffic Control jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Vessel Traffic Control job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,247 per year, or $43.9 per hour.

Traffic Management Specialist

Port Hueneme, CA โ€ข On-site, Remote

$87K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Summary
About the Position: Serve as Traffic Management Specialist in Detachment at Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC), Pt Hueneme location attached to the Military Ocean Terminal Concord, CA. Serve as the regional technical expert on automated data processing (ADP) and related projects for the Department of Defense (DOD) transportation system.
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Duties
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  • Plan and coordinate day-to-day terminal operations and traffic management for all cargo (import/export) through commercial and military terminal facilities throughout the Area of Responsibility.
  • Support terminal operations functions encompassing reception and staging of import and export cargo, and vessel operations.
  • Operate various transportation systems to execute documentation while utilizing multiple in-transit visibility systems to ensure 100% accountability.
  • Position requires interpretation of hazardous material transportation policies and procedures for subordinate organizational components.
  • Provide proposed regulation movement of hazardous cargo by surface to establish an agency position on the proposals and assess possible impact on automated transportation systems operations.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
  • Position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a secret security clearance.
  • Incumbent may be required to serve a one-year probationary period.
  • This position is designated as Key: Please see "Additional Information" section for further details.
  • Incumbent may be required to travel up to 25% to perform duties/attend training.
  • This position requires you to submit a Public Financial Disclosure Report (OGE 278) or a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE450) upon entry, and annually thereafter.
  • If appointed as a Contract Officer Representative (COR) additional contracting courses will be required.
  • Incumbent must be able to obtain and maintain a valid driving license.
  • Incumbent must obtain Hazardous Material certification within 6 months of employment.
  • Incumbent will be required to undergo an initial and annual physical.

Qualifications
Who May Apply: Only applicants who meet one of the employment authority categories below are eligible to apply for this job. You will be asked to identify which category or categories you meet, and to provide documents which prove you meet the category or categories you selected. See Proof of Eligibility for an extensive list of document requirements for all employment authorities.
  • 30 Percent or More Disabled Veterans
  • Current Department of Army Civilian Employees
  • Current Department of Defense (DOD) Civilian Employee (non-Army)
  • Domestic Defense Industrial Base/Major Range and Test Facilities Base Civilian Personnel Workforce
  • Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan
  • Land Management Workforce Flexibility Act
  • Military Spouses, under Executive Order (E.O.) 13473
  • Non-Department of Defense (DoD) Transfer
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technician Eligible
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD MR and NG Preference Eligible Tech Receiving Disability Retirement
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Retained Grade Preference Eligible
  • Reinstatement
  • Veterans Employment Opportunity Act (VEOA) of 1998

In order to qualify, you must meet the education and/or experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes: 1) Managing transportation and traffic operations for military and/or commercial cargo; 2) Operating automated transportation systems like Global Air Transportation and Execution System (GATES) and Integrated Computerized Deployment System (ICODES); 3) Overseeing contract compliance to assure quality control for cargo handling services; 4) Creating operational procedures to provide policy guidance to users.
This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the second lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-09).
OR
Education: Ph.D or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree or LL.M. with a major study in accounting, business administration, business or commercial law, commerce, economics, engineering, finance, industrial management, statistics, traffic management, transportation, motor mechanics, or other fields related to the position.
OR
Combination of Education and Experience: A combination of education and experience may be used to qualify for this position as long as the computed percentage of the requirements is at least 100%. To compute the percentage of the requirements, divide your total months of experience by 12. Then divide the total number of completed graduate semester hours (or equivalent) beyond the second year (total graduate semester hours minus 36) by 18. Add the two percentages.
You will be evaluated on the basis of your level of competency in the following areas:
  • Attention to Detail
  • Customer Service
  • Decision Making
  • Flexibility
  • Integrity/Honesty
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Reasoning
  • Self-Management
  • Stress Tolerance
  • Teamwork

Time in Grade Requirement: Applicants who have held a General Schedule (GS) position within the last 52 weeks must have 52 weeks of Federal service at the next lower grade or equivalent (GS-09).
Education
FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
Additional information
  • Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
  • You will be required to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship.
  • One year trial/probationary period may be required.
  • Direct deposit of pay is required.
  • This position requires you to submit a Public Financial Disclosure Report (OGE 278) or a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE450) upon entry, and annually thereafter.
  • Selection is subject to restrictions resulting from Department of Defense referral system for displaced employees.
  • This is a(n) Transportation and Distribution Management Career Field position.
  • Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.
  • Salary includes applicable locality pay or Local Market Supplement.
  • Payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized, based on a determination that a PCS move is not in the Government interest.
  • This position is designated Key. In the event of a crisis situation, the incumbent, or designated alternate, must continue to perform the Key duties until relieved by proper authority. The incumbent, or the designated alternate, may be required to take part in readiness exercises. This position cannot be vacated during a national emergency or mobilization without seriously impairing the capability of the organization to function effectively, therefore, the position is designated "key", which requires the incumbent, or designated alternate, to be screened from military recall status.

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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.