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Vessel Traffic Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wheelman

Gray, LA ยท On-site

Uses steering controllers, throttles, radar compass, short-wave radio, depth finder, loud hailer ... Uses radio communication and vision to navigate waterways, docks, locks, and other vessel traffic.

Wheelman

Houston, TX ยท On-site

Navigates in rivers or canals by properly using steering controllers, throttles, radar compasses ... Uses radio communication and vision to navigate waterways, docks, locks, and other vessel traffic;

Navigates in rivers or canals by properly using steering controllers, throttles, radar compasses ... Uses radio communication and vision to navigate waterways, docks, locks, and other vessel traffic;

Wheelman

Harahan, LA ยท On-site

Navigates in rivers or canals by properly using steering controllers, throttles, radar compasses ... Uses radio communication and vision to navigate waterways, docks, locks, and other vessel traffic.

Wheelman

Harahan, LA ยท On-site

Navigates in rivers or canals by properly using steering controllers, throttles, radar compasses ... Uses radio communication and vision to navigate waterways, docks, locks, and other vessel traffic.

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

Bridge Tender

Sturgeon Bay, WI ยท On-site

$21.88/hr

... traffic. This position supports public safety and infrastructure reliability by executing ... Communicates effectively via two-way radio with vessel operators, County staff, and regulatory ...

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Vessel Traffic Controller information

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$12

$23

$40

How much do vessel traffic controller jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for vessel traffic controller in the United States is $23.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vessel traffic controller?

Vessel Traffic Controllers are professionals responsible for monitoring and managing the movement of ships within designated waterways, such as harbors, ports, and busy maritime routes. Their main goal is to ensure safe and efficient navigation by providing guidance, information, and instructions to vessel operators. They use radar, radio communication, and other technologies to track vessel positions and prevent collisions or accidents. Vessel Traffic Controllers work closely with port authorities, ship captains, and maritime agencies to coordinate vessel schedules and respond to emergencies. Their role is critical in maintaining order and safety in busy maritime environments.

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

To thrive as a Vessel Traffic Controller, you need a strong understanding of maritime navigation, communication protocols, and relevant maritime regulations, often supported by specialized training or certification in vessel traffic services (VTS). Familiarity with radar systems, AIS (Automatic Identification System), radio communication equipment, and VTS management software is essential. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making, and stress management skills help you handle high-pressure scenarios and coordinate safely with multiple stakeholders. These competencies are vital to ensuring safe, efficient, and orderly movement of vessels, preventing accidents, and maintaining maritime security.

What are some common challenges faced by vessel traffic controllers and how are they addressed?

Vessel Traffic Controllers often face the challenge of managing high volumes of maritime traffic, especially during peak times or adverse weather conditions. Maintaining clear communication with multiple vessels and coordinating with port authorities requires strong multitasking and quick decision-making skills. To address these challenges, controllers rely on advanced radar and communication systems, adhere to established protocols, and participate in regular training to stay updated on safety procedures. Team collaboration is essential, as colleagues often support each other during high-pressure situations to ensure safe and efficient vessel movements.

What is the difference between Vessel Traffic Controller vs Marine Radio Operator?

AspectVessel Traffic ControllerMarine Radio Operator
Required CredentialsFCC Marine Radio Operator Permit, maritime certificationsFCC Marine Radio Operator Permit, communication certifications
Work EnvironmentHarbor, port, or maritime control centersShipboard, port facilities, maritime communication centers
Employer & Industry UsagePorts, maritime authorities, coast guardMaritime communication companies, ships, ports
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Vessel Traffic Controllers and Marine Radio Operators both require FCC permits and work within maritime environments. However, Vessel Traffic Controllers primarily manage vessel movements in ports and harbors, ensuring safety and traffic flow, while Marine Radio Operators handle communication between ships and ports, focusing on radio transmissions. Both roles are essential in maritime safety and often overlap in port operations, but their core responsibilities and work settings differ.

More about Vessel Traffic Controller jobs

What cities are hiring for Vessel Traffic Controller jobs?

Cities with the most Vessel Traffic Controller job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Vessel Traffic Controller jobs?

The top employers for Vessel Traffic Controller jobs are:

What states have the most Vessel Traffic Controller jobs?

States with the most job openings for Vessel Traffic Controller jobs include:

Infographic showing various Vessel Traffic Controller job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,810 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Vessel Traffic Controller

Port Of Corpus Christi Authority

Corpus Christi, TX โ€ข On-site

$59K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Job Summary Hiring Range: $59,092.80 - $75,064.08/Year. It is anticipated that the hiring rate offered will be +/- the midpoint range depending on qualifications Port Corpus Christi Authority (PCCA) is currently seeking an energetic individual to join our team. This position is responsible for monitoring and maintaining all records on vessel movements in the harbor

Compiles and reports data regarding vessels, cargo, damages, personnel and facility utilization Provides clear communication by telephone, 2-way radio, email and/or in person, and notifies of vessel arrivals from the US Coast Guard to the ship agents Monitors VTIS systems, CCTV monitors and coordinates with appropriate vessel agents, towing companies, line handlers, pilot's association, PCCA police and other maritime personnel for all vessel movements within PCCA jurisdiction Coordinates all berth assignments, and coordinates with stevedores, railroads, agents and other maritime personnel to facilitate the timely and efficient movement of cargo Communicates as required with Coast Guard on vessel traffic and PCCA operations Provides communication with PCCA users, Coast Guard, C.C. Oil Spill Association, PCCA Police, Refinery Terminal Fire Company and other agencies as required during emergency situations Provides communication and coordination with all vessels regarding navigation assistance and traffic movements, harbor locations, weather changes, harbor or channel emergencies, channel closures, and any vessel requirements Compiles and reports all information required for billing; enters required data daily into PCCA computer system concerning billing and vessel activity; edits reports, verifies data for accuracy Provides proper information to all PCCA users in a courteous manner and performs functions in an accurate and professional manner maintaining an acceptable level of competence, composure and professionalism Monitors vessel specifications at various locations in ship channel, cargo loadings, transfers and discharges for compliance with PCCA rules and regulations Makes independent decisions regarding vessel movement and berth assignments as required Provides a written and or verbal rundown of all events, ETAs, ETDs, shifts, (events will be rig movements, channel closures, etc.) creating a smooth transition from one shift to the next Adheres to all PCCA policies, promotes and adheres to SEAPORT values and maintains good employee relations where teamwork prevails Works 12 hour rotating shift, 4 days on,4 days off including nights, weekends and holidays; must be flexible in responding to work demands and in working additional shifts as needed Tier 1 status designation CPR certified or ability to become CPR certified within the first year of employment CANDIDATE PROFILE The preferred candidate for this position should be a professional and reliable individual with the fortitude to work in demanding environment and to communicate effectively with PCCA stakeholders and staff. The successful candidate must be customer service oriented with the ability to fit well within an energetic and dedicated team

They must possess the following: EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS High school diploma or GED equivalent Ability to obtain and maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) during course of employment Valid driver's license Associates degree in Computer Science or acceptable equivalent experience in the IT field preferred. EXPERIENCE & JOB KNOWLEDGE Experience as radio operator or in Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) operations preferred; experience and knowledge of port operations to include approaches, channel and port facilities also preferred Experience in computer software applications, and data entry for use in reporting software, spreadsheets, graphs and flowcharts. Working knowledge of computer workstations and computer operating systems Proficiency in computer software applications with good keyboarding skills Basic knowledge of importing and exporting data for use in reporting software, spreadsheets, graph and flow charts.

Experience with the use of computer terminals and online reference resources preferred Effective collaboration and problem-solving skills with use of interpersonal and public communications techniques Minimum two years' experience in the type of administrative duties outlined above or acceptable equivalent experience TECHNICAL SKILLS Solid customer service and communication skills with ability to speak, read and write English Demonstrated organizational skills; be multitasking and able to maintain professionalism and composure in a demanding work environment Ability to define issues, perform research, evaluate alternatives and develop sound, independent conclusions and recommendations Ability to work well within a fast-paced environment, tight deadlines, and a multitude of changing priorities Ability to understand, interpret and apply PCCA policies, tariffs, SEAPORT values, state/federal laws ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL JOB FUNCTIONS Ability to perform essential job functions, including but not limited to frequent standing, walking, sitting, speaking or hearing, typing and occasional reaching, stooping, kneeling, lifting and/or moving up to 20 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation Ability to work in a general office environment, and on a work site with exposure to adverse weather conditions, fumes and /or air particulates, working in high precarious places, risk of electrical shock and moving mechanical parts, moderate noise levels and working at heights, ability to wear personnel protective equipment, including hard hat, steel toed footwear, eye and hearing protection when performing work functions Communicating verbally, in writing and over devices such as phones and mobile phones Ability to operate mechanical and electrical equipment and light-weight highway vehicles and standard office equipment and to work the requisite hours to fulfill position objectives, including evenings and/or weekends, as needed Must show no greater than a mild hearing loss, not to exceed 40 decibels at frequencies 500-4000 Hz in either ear APPLICATION PROCESS Interested and qualified candidates may apply online on or before Wednesday, August 26, 2026, 11:59 PM CST. If you are selected for a position with PCCA, your employment will be contingent upon the successful completion of a physical examination, drug test and alcohol screening, as well as a verification of information and qualifications provided during the selection process. As part of our dedication to the diversity of our workforce, PCCA is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity.

Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard for race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, military status, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any other protected group status.