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Vessel Traffic Service Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BUFFALO MARINE SERVICE INC

Wheelman

Houston, TX · On-site

Uses radio communication and vision to navigate waterways, docks, locks, and other vessel traffic; * Supervises the cleaning and maintenance of boat and tow; the loading, transport, and discharging ...

CareFree Boat Club

Boat Club Dock Master

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... service that CareFree Boat Club is known for. Responsibilities: * Oversee daily dock operations, ensuring safe and efficient vessel traffic and slip management * Assist club members with boat check ...

CareFree Boat Club

Boat Club Dock Master

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... service that CareFree Boat Club is known for. Responsibilities: * Oversee daily dock operations, ensuring safe and efficient vessel traffic and slip management * Assist club members with boat check ...

CareFree Boat Club

Boat Club Dock Master

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... service that CareFree Boat Club is known for. Responsibilities: * Oversee daily dock operations, ensuring safe and efficient vessel traffic and slip management * Assist club members with boat check ...

BUFFALO MARINE SERVICE INC

Wheelman

Houston, TX

Uses radio communication and vision to navigate waterways, docks, locks, and other vessel traffic; * Supervises the cleaning and maintenance of boat and tow; the loading, transport, and discharging ...

King Ocean Inc.

NY · On-site

$140 - $210/hr

Director of Traffic and Customer Service Reports To: Chief Operating Officer Direct Reports ... This leadership role ensures efficient coordination of vessel space and bookings, high‑quality ...

Antillean Line

Ocean Freight Traffic Manager

Miami, FL · On-site

Lead daily import and export traffic based on vessel schedules and service plans. * Coordinate each shipment from pre-arrival planning to discharge, loading, cargo release, export receiving, and ...

New

The Boca Raton

Water Taxi Captain

Boca Raton, FL · On-site

$26.50/hr

... vessel traffic. Essential Functions Job duties include, although are not limited to: * Begins daily ... Provides excellent customer service and, when appropriate, interacts with guests in accordance to ...

Blessey Marine Services

Wheelman

Harahan, LA

Uses radio communication and vision to navigate waterways, docks, locks, and other vessel traffic ... Services, Inc is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Drug Free Workplace View all jobs at this ...

L&M Botruc Rental LLC

Be Seen First

Offshore Supply Vessel Captain

Pascagoula, MS · On-site

$625 - $725/day

With a strong reputation for safety, reliability, and customer service, our fleet supports offshore ... Navigate and handle vessels in changing weather, sea, traffic, and offshore operating conditions.

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Showing results 21-40

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Vessel Traffic Service information

See salary details

$22.5K

$60.2K

$109.5K

How much do vessel traffic service jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for vessel traffic service in the United States is $60,162.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $72,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in vessel traffic service?

To thrive in Vessel Traffic Service (VTS), you need expertise in maritime navigation, situational awareness, and regulatory compliance, generally supported by relevant maritime qualifications or Coast Guard certifications. Familiarity with radar systems, VHF radio communications, AIS (Automatic Identification System), and VTS management software is crucial. Strong decision-making, attention to detail, and clear communication skills set top candidates apart in monitoring and directing vessel movement. These competencies are vital to ensure maritime safety, prevent collisions, and maintain efficient traffic flow in busy ports and waterways.

What are the typical work shifts and team structures for vessel traffic service?

Vessel Traffic Service professionals typically work in shifts to provide 24/7 monitoring of vessel movements, which means schedules often include nights, weekends, and holidays. Teams usually consist of watch supervisors, VTS operators, and support staff who work together in a control center environment, coordinating closely to ensure safe and efficient maritime operations. Collaboration is vital, as operators frequently communicate with ship crews, harbor pilots, port authorities, and emergency responders. This team-based setting supports real-time decision-making and continuous coverage, ensuring a dynamic and supportive work environment.

What is a vessel traffic service?

A Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) job involves monitoring and managing marine traffic to ensure safe and efficient vessel movements in busy waterways. VTS operators use radar, radio, and other communication systems to provide navigational assistance, issue safety advisories, and coordinate responses to potential hazards. They work in designated control centers and collaborate with port authorities, coast guards, and ship operators. The primary goal is to prevent collisions, groundings, and other navigational risks. This role requires strong communication skills, situational awareness, and knowledge of maritime regulations.

More about Vessel Traffic Service jobs
What cities are hiring for Vessel Traffic Service jobs? Cities with the most Vessel Traffic Service job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Vessel Traffic Service jobs? The most popular types of Vessel Traffic Service jobs are:
What states have the most Vessel Traffic Service jobs? States with the most job openings for Vessel Traffic Service jobs include:
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Vessel Traffic Service jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vessel Traffic Service job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,162 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Wheelman

BUFFALO MARINE SERVICE INC

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

General Job Responsibilities
The Master/Relief/Pilot is the manager of the vessel including all attached barges. The Master/Relief/Pilot is responsible for the crew's adherence to all United States Coast Guard and company policies. The Master/Relief/Pilot navigates safely, supervises the crew, oversees safety programs, complies with rules and regulations pertaining to the towing of vessels and protects the environment. The Master/Relief/Pilot takes work assignments from the Operational Department. The Pilot backs up the Master, serving as supervisor when the Master is asleep and has management and supervisory responsibility while on watch. The Relief Captain serves as Pilot when the Master is on the vessel, and serves as the Master when the Master is at home. The Master/Relief/Pilot must be able to intercede and safely perform the essential functions of any job on the vessel to include the job tasks of a deckhand and Tankerman. The Master/Relief Captain/Pilot is responsible for the safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant operation of assigned area. Employee's key job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Trains and supervises the crew in the safe and efficient performance of duties;
  • Evaluates performance of all crewmembers with river crews consisting of 7 to 10 members and canal crews consisting of 4 to 5 members;
  • Navigates in rivers or canals by properly using steering controllers, throttles, radar compasses, short wave radios, depth finders, loud hailers and other equipment to transport tow to a destination;
  • Uses radio communication and vision to navigate waterways, docks, locks, and other vessel traffic;
  • Supervises the cleaning and maintenance of boat and tow; the loading, transport, and discharging of cargo;
  • Adheres to company policies, United States Coast Guard and environmental regulations;
  • Acts as a company representative in the day-to-day dealings with customers at their facilities and with representatives of governmental agencies;
  • Acts as the on-site coordinator in emergencies;
  • On smaller vessels performs routine engine room maintenance such as changing oil, checking oil, and changing fuel filters.

Minimum Job Qualifications:
Applicant must be able to:
  • Navigate vessel safely by properly operating navigational controls, propulsion, engines, gears, mechanical and electrical equipment under various environmental conditions.
  • Read - read office updates, procedure manuals, safety memos, federal and state documents, manifests, and requisitions.
  • Write - keeps the vessel logs, completes checklists, and takes written exams as required by the company and/ or governmental agencies.
  • Interpret, understand and use maps and charts.
  • Communicate with Dispatcher, crewmembers, other Master/ Relief Captain/ Pilots, Port Engineers, Coast Guard Inspectors and others.
  • Direct crew to complete actions and follow regulations in a safe, efficient manner.
  • Resolve disputes among crewmembers.
  • Maintain morale of crewmembers.
  • Consider many conditions, including weather, vessel and waterway characteristics, traffic, and the abilities of the crew in the making of quick, effective decisions about navigation and the operation of the vessel.
  • Evaluate and treat minor medical conditions and injuries within the scope of his or her knowledge and abilities.
  • Remain calm during challenging situations and set the "tone" for the safe, positive, efficient functioning of all members of the crew.
  • Possess a United States Coast Guard Boat License and/ or marine document for vessel operated.
  • Possess a valid driver's license for operation of any of the company's vehicles.
  • Demonstrate leadership by persuading others to perform work because they want to do it.
  • Make good decisions, be dependable, be conscientious, and show initiative.
  • Pay attention to detail and be willing to adhere to orders, rules, and regulations.
  • Work as a team player-i.e., work with others and understand customer/ supplier wants and needs.
  • Be mentally and physically stable under pressure and withstand the stress associated with the job, including discomfort, unpredictable weather and potentially hazardous situations.
  • Work aboard vessel for prolonged periods according to work schedule for the vessel, for example: 20 days on and 10 days off or 14 days on and 7 days off.
  • Work shifts of 6-12 hours around the clock and work additional hours if necessary.
  • Maintain vigilance during 6-12 hour shift in the wheelhouse.
  • Willing to work, as operations require, including days.
  • Live in close quarters and be able to work away from home for long periods of time.
  • Be drug and alcohol free while on company property during course and scope of company business.
  • Pass USCG Physical and MRI Exam

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