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Vessel Traffic Services Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wheelman

Gray, LA · On-site

Based in South Louisiana, D&S Marine Service is a family owned and operated inland marine ... Uses radio communication and vision to navigate waterways, docks, locks, and other vessel traffic.

In addition to emergency response work, the operator will assist with routine vessel line handling, environmental and industrial service projects. This position requires a strong commitment to safety ...

Maintain radio watch as required and utilize radio communication and visual navigation to safely maneuver waterways, docks, locks, and other vessel traffic. * Represent Turn Services professionally ...

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Vessel Traffic Services Operator information

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$12

$19

$27

How much do vessel traffic services operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for vessel traffic services operator in the United States is $19.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of a vessel operator?

A vessel traffic services operator monitors and manages ship movements within designated waterways to ensure safety and efficiency. They use radar, radio communication, and navigation systems to coordinate vessel traffic, often working in control centers and requiring certifications in maritime safety and communication protocols.

How to get a job on a vessel?

To work on a vessel, candidates typically need relevant maritime certifications such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping), relevant experience, and sometimes a maritime license depending on the role. Applying through maritime employment agencies, completing safety training, and gaining experience in maritime environments are common steps to secure a vessel job.

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

AspectVessel Traffic Services OperatorMarine Radio Operator
Required CredentialsVTS certification, maritime trainingMarine radio license, communication training
Work EnvironmentPort control centers, maritime traffic managementShipboard, maritime communication stations
Employer & IndustryPorts, maritime authoritiesShipping companies, maritime communication providers
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that Vessel Traffic Services Operators manage maritime traffic in port areas and require specialized VTS certifications, while Marine Radio Operators focus on ship-to-shore communication using radio licenses. Both roles are essential in maritime safety but serve different functions within the industry.

What are the main challenges Vessel Traffic Services Operators face in managing busy maritime routes?

Vessel Traffic Services Operators often work in high-pressure environments where they must monitor and coordinate the movement of multiple vessels simultaneously, especially in congested or adverse weather conditions. Effective communication, quick decision-making, and a deep understanding of maritime navigation are crucial to prevent collisions and ensure the safe and efficient flow of traffic. Operators also frequently collaborate with port authorities, emergency response teams, and ship crews, requiring strong teamwork and situational awareness. Adapting to rapidly changing situations and maintaining attention to detail are ongoing challenges in this role.

What is a vessel traffic service?

A vessel traffic service (VTS) is a marine traffic management system operated by trained personnel to monitor and coordinate vessel movements in busy waterways, ports, or harbors. VTS operators use radar, radio communication, and other tools to ensure safe navigation, prevent collisions, and manage maritime traffic efficiently.

What are Vessel Traffic Services Operators?

Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) Operators are professionals responsible for monitoring and managing maritime traffic within designated waterways, such as ports and harbors. They use radar, radio communication, and other technologies to track vessel movements, provide navigational advice, and ensure safety and efficiency. VTS Operators play a crucial role in preventing collisions, coordinating responses to emergencies, and supporting the smooth flow of maritime commerce. Their work helps protect the environment and maintain order in busy or hazardous maritime areas.

What is the highest paid job on a ship?

The highest paid jobs on a ship are typically senior officers such as the captain or master, who oversee all vessel operations and safety. These roles require extensive experience, certifications, and leadership skills, and they often command the highest salaries among crew members. Compensation varies based on vessel size, type, and company policies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Vessel Traffic Services Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vessel Traffic Services Operator, you need strong situational awareness, maritime knowledge, and typically a background in marine navigation or radio operation, often supported by certifications like IALA V-103. Familiarity with radar systems, Automatic Identification Systems (AIS), VHF radio, and vessel tracking software is essential. Excellent communication, decision-making, and stress management skills help operators coordinate safely and efficiently with vessels and port authorities. These abilities are crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient movement of maritime traffic, preventing accidents, and protecting the marine environment.
More about Vessel Traffic Services Operator jobs
What states have the most Vessel Traffic Services Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Vessel Traffic Services Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Vessel Traffic Services Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,463 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Vessel Coordinator

Vessel Coordinator

Moran Towing Corporation

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Moran Towing rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
Moran Towing Corporation (www.morantug.com) has an opportunity available for a Vessel Coordinator, based in Jacksonville, FL.This is a full-time, salaried, exempt position reporting to the Regional Vice President, Southeast.
Moran Towing Corporation is one of the oldest companies in America and has prospered by continuously reinventing itself for over 160 years. Starting in 1860 as a tugboat company, we have grown from those roots to become a dominant provider of commercial ship docking services, marine transportation, LNG support operations, environmental recovery, and commercial diving services. While economies, cultures, markets, and technology will always continue to evolve, our steadfast commitment to partnering with our employees and customers to solve our customers' marine requirements has enabled us to stay the course year after year.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Vessel Coordinator schedules and coordinates tug and crew movements in support of port operations. The Vessel Coordinator uses discretion and independent judgment while working closely with the individual port's staff members (i.e. General Managers, Operations Managers), tug crews, customers, agents, and docking pilots, as applicable, to effect the safest, most timely and advantageous use of company equipment and crews. Responsibilities include matching tug capabilities to the needs of the vessel assisted by using phone, radio and computer communications to efficiently and accurately transmit assignments. This position requires the ability and willingness to work different hours of the day or night, weekends, and overtime days/hours as business needs require.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE, but are not limited, to the following:
• Facilitate the communication of information between tug and shoreside personnel, including transmitting orders, gathering vessel traffic information, and coordinating dockside activities.
• Prepare and communicate daily position reports to customers and management, along with any other pertinent information related to vessel activities or customer-specific requirements.
• Allocate company resources e.g. tugs, pilots, and crews, etc., to jobs based on the safest and most efficient service.
• Assist in supporting vessel requests from Operations personnel.
• Coordinate the movement of tugs with forecasted jobs to meet Moran and customer requirements while confirming that crew regulatory work hour limitations are maintained.
• Review vessel traffic for status accuracy and potential problems and report same.
• Confer with customers and/or agents, docking pilots, and appropriate crew and shoreside personnel in order to address questions, problems and requests for service or equipment.
• Service customers using available outside resources when required, including hiring outside contractors to meet customer needs when internal personnel are unavailable.
• Record and maintain files and records of customer requests, work or services performed, charges, expenses, inventory, and other reported information.
• Maintain a "safety first" posture and promote safety compliance through example.
• Promptly report any incidents as per OPPM and all accidents or emergencies to applicable emergency response personnel and to relevant management.
• Use knowledge of tug capabilities and port/berth characteristics to develop and execute solid plans based on the daily needs of the port.
• Monitor the day's activities and make management aware of deviations from daily plan and of business opportunities.
• May review invoices and/or re-bills and be responsible for inputting into Helm.
• May prepare daily work sheet for scheduled vessel movements; document schedule changes as they occur.
• May coordinate fuel/lube purchases for tugs.
• Perform other responsibilities as assigned.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Minimum High School Diploma.
• Demonstrated good computer proficiency in keyboarding and with Microsoft Office programs, especially Outlook, Word, and Excel.
• Excellent customer service skills and a courteous demeanor.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to:
  • Be self-motivated - a self-starter.
  • Plan and organize work and manage multiple priorities.
  • Work accurately and efficiently with an eye to detail.
  • Evaluate information and make sound decisions.
  • Use good judgment about when to handle an issue independently vs. when to ask for help.
  • Work well independently and as a team player.
  • Ability and willingness to work different hours of the day or night, weekends, and overtime days/hours as business needs require.
  • Prior marine and/or coordination experience a definite asset.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • Sit or stand for prolonged periods of time; Frequently walk; frequently reach with hands and arms; possess finger dexterity for handling paper and typing; occasionally crouch and stoop; occasionally lift and/or carry up to 10 pounds; speak clearly, hear and see accurately (close vision and color vision)

In Return, We Offer:
  • Competitive compensation
  • Career development opportunities
  • Team-oriented work environment
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Health Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Company paid Life, AD&D, and Long-Term Disability Insurance Plans
  • Employee Assistance, Health Advocate, and Wellness Programs
  • Generous 401(k) Plan with employer non-elective, matching, and discretionary contributions
  • Company paid Financial Advice Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Paid Vacation based on years of service

PAY TRANSPARENCY:
Moran Towing Corporation offers generous benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and competitive salaries based on geographic location. Our target pay range for the Vessel Coordinator position is $65,000 -$75,000 per year. This pay range represents Moran's commitment to pay transparency and is a reasonable estimate of possible compensation for this role at the time of posting. The final salary for this role will be determined based on careful consideration of a variety of factors, such as the candidate's exact location, experience, and expertise related to the qualifications.
Moran Towing Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, or other legally protected status.

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