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Vessel Traffic Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Allen Marine Tours

Operations Specialist

Juneau, AK · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Monitor on-site traffic and activity in accordance with Maritime Security procedures. * Act as ... Ability to accomplish tasks in a controlled, effective and professional manner while working for ...

Machina Labs

Production Weld Fitter

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $27/hr

This position requires access to information controlled under the International Traffic in Arms ... Experience fitting aerospace, defense, pressure vessel, tank, or structural assemblies.

Machina Labs

Production Weld Fitter

Los Angeles, CA

$22.75 - $28.50/hr

This position requires access to information controlled under the International Traffic in Arms ... Experience fitting aerospace, defense, pressure vessel, tank, or structural assemblies.

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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 Jun 10, 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 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 are Vessel Traffic Controllers?

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 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:
What job categories do people searching Vessel Traffic Controller jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Vessel Traffic Controller jobs are:
Vessel Traffic Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vessel Traffic Controller job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 27% Full Time, and 73% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,810 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Mechanical Engineering Intern

BLUE OPS INC

West Palm Beach, FL • On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

Red Cat Holdings' Blue Ops division develops cutting-edge unmanned surface vessels (USVs) for defense and maritime autonomy applications.

As a Mechanical Engineering Intern, you will work alongside experienced engineers to design, test, and refine mechanical systems on operational USV platforms in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Develop and modify 3D CAD models and technical drawings for USV hull components, mounting systems, and payload integration structures using SolidWorks or similar tools
  • Assist in fabrication, assembly, and functional testing of mechanical prototypes in both shop and open-water environments
  • Conduct performance testing of mechanical systems aboard USV platforms and analyze field trial data
  • Support integration of mechanical, electrical, and embedded systems across autonomous vessel variants
  • Document test results, engineering analyses, and design changes in technical reports
Required Qualifications
  • Currently pursuing a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, or accepted as a prospective student in a Mechanical Engineering program
  • Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred)
  • Foundational knowledge of materials, structural mechanics, and fluid systems
  • Minimum 3.5 GPA
Additional Desired Qualifications
  • Experience with FEA tools such as ANSYS or Abaqus
  • Hands-on shop experience with machine tools, welding, CNC, waterjet, or 3D printing
  • Exposure to marine, robotics, or defense hardware environments
  • Familiarity with ArduPilot, ROS, or embedded systems a plus
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
  • Must be able to walk, stand, and navigate large indoor and outdoor facilities for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to lift, carry, and move materials and equipment weighing up to 25 lbs on a regular basis.
  • Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required in designated areas or when performing specific tasks, in accordance with safety protocols and company policy.
  • May be required to climb ladders, stoop, kneel, or crouch during inspections, maintenance walk-throughs, or emergency response situations.
  • Regular exposure to facility operations including noise, dust, temperature fluctuations, and industrial equipment.
  • Occasional off-hours or weekend work required for emergency facility responses or projects as needed
  • Requires frequent use of a computer and other standard office equipment for documentation, communication, and coordination tasks.

Background Check

This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.

EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure

Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.

E-Verify

The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.

Compensation: Base pay, plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.

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