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Watch Officer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Army

WATCH OFFICER

Doral, FL · On-site

$113K/yr

... watch teams and leveraging Joint command and control automated information systems to analyze ... flag officer or senior executive decision-makers. This definition of specialized experience is ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

WATCH OFFICER

Doral, FL · On-site

$113K/yr

... watch teams and leveraging Joint command and control automated information systems to analyze ... flag officer or senior executive decision-makers. This definition of specialized experience is ...

Joint Activities

WATCH OFFICER

Doral, FL · On-site +1

$113K - $147K/yr

Lead the multi-service Joint Operations Center (JOC) watch team to monitor emergent national ... flag officer or senior executive decision-makers. This definition of specialized experience is ...

CACI

Joint Operations Center Watch Officers

Doral, FL · On-site

As a Joint Operations Center (JOC) Watch Officer supporting the SCOPES Program at USSOUTHCOM, you will support the Joint Task Force-Western Hemisphere (JTF-WHEM) by serving as a key member of a 24/7 ...

Hosco

2nd Officer

Miami, FL · On-site

They stand their own watch, primarily during daytime and evening hours when senior officers are available, provided they are deemed fit and competent by the Master. The 2nd Officer ensures adherence ...

Hosco

2nd Officer

Miami, FL · On-site

They stand their own watch, primarily during daytime and evening hours when senior officers are available, provided they are deemed fit and competent by the Master. The 2nd Officer ensures adherence ...

Fairwater

Third Mate - Tankers

Dania Beach, FL · On-site

STCW * II/1: Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch * II/4: Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch * II/5: Able Seafarer- Deck * IV/2: GMDSS Operator * VI/1: Basic Safety Training * VI/2: ...

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Watch Officer information

What is a watch officer?

Watch Officers are professionals responsible for overseeing and managing operations during a specific shift or 'watch' period, often in maritime, military, emergency response, or security settings. Their duties typically include monitoring activities, coordinating communication, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and responding to incidents as needed. Watch Officers play a critical role in maintaining situational awareness and facilitating smooth transitions between shifts. They must be detail-oriented, able to make quick decisions, and possess strong leadership skills. The role may vary depending on the industry, but the core responsibility is to ensure operations run efficiently and safely during their watch.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a watch officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Watch Officer, you need a solid understanding of navigation, maritime safety regulations, and vessel operations, typically supported by a maritime academy degree and Officer of the Watch (OOW) certification. Familiarity with navigation systems, radar, ECDIS, and communication equipment is integral to the role. Strong situational awareness, decision-making, and leadership skills help manage crew and respond effectively to emergencies. These skills ensure safe vessel operations, regulatory compliance, and effective response to dynamic maritime situations.

What are some common challenges faced by watch officers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Watch Officers often encounter challenges such as maintaining situational awareness during long shifts, handling multiple incidents simultaneously, and ensuring clear communication among team members and stakeholders. To manage these effectively, it is crucial to follow established protocols, utilize checklists, and prioritize tasks based on urgency. Regular training, strong teamwork, and effective use of monitoring tools can also help Watch Officers stay organized and responsive during high-pressure situations.

What is the difference between Watch Officer vs Marine Safety Officer?

AspectWatch OfficerMarine Safety Officer
CredentialsSTCW certifications, maritime trainingMaritime safety certifications, regulatory training
Work EnvironmentShip bridge, maritime operationsPorts, maritime safety agencies, regulatory bodies
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, maritime vesselsGovernment agencies, maritime safety organizations
Search & ComparisonOften searched together due to maritime safety rolesRelated but more regulatory-focused

While both roles involve maritime safety, a Watch Officer primarily oversees navigation and vessel operations onboard ships, requiring maritime certifications. A Marine Safety Officer works in safety regulation, inspections, and compliance within maritime agencies or ports. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the maritime industry.

How do you become a watch officer?

To become a watch officer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by relevant maritime training or certification such as a Merchant Mariner Credential or STCW certification. Prior experience at sea or in related roles is often required, along with strong communication and navigation skills, and the ability to work in shifts on a vessel or maritime environment.

How much do watch officers make?

Watch officers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the industry they work in. They often require certifications such as security or safety training and work in environments like transportation hubs, maritime ports, or security operations.

What are popular job titles related to Watch Officer jobs in Florida?

For Watch Officer jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Watch Officer jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Watch Officer jobs in Florida are:

Watch Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Watch Officer job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Fire Watch Officer

GUARDIAN SECURITY AGENCY OF FLORIDA INC

Saint Petersburg, FL • On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Casual Part-Time Fire Watch & Security Officer

Company: Guardian Security Agency of Florida, Inc.
Location: Tampa Bay Area
Pay: $19.00–$22.00 per hour
Employment Type: Casual Part-Time / As-Needed — High Potential for Full-Time
License Required: Valid Florida Class D Security Officer License

Position Overview

Guardian Security Agency of Florida is seeking dependable, professional D-licensed Security Officers for a casual part-time/as-needed position providing Fire Watch and security coverage throughout the Tampa Bay area.

This position is designed to help cover Fire Watch jobs, temporary security assignments, emergency coverage, and other open shifts as they become available. Because Fire Watch assignments are often temporary and requested on short notice, this position does not have a fixed weekly schedule or permanent assigned post.

There is high potential for consistent part-time or full-time employment for candidates who demonstrate reliability, flexibility, strong performance, and availability. As longer-term positions and contracts become available, we will look first to officers who have proven themselves through these assignments.

How Scheduling Works

This is a casual, as-needed position, not a traditional fixed-schedule security post.

When Fire Watch or security assignments become available, shifts will be offered based on company needs, assignment requirements, and officer availability. Assignments may range from a single shift to several days or longer.

Officers are not required to remain available or wait for assignments during unscheduled periods. However, candidates with greater flexibility and the ability to accept short-notice assignments will generally have more opportunities for hours.

There are no guaranteed weekly hours during the casual part-time period.

Primary Responsibilities
  • Perform Fire Watch duties at commercial properties, construction sites, multifamily properties, and other facilities.
  • Conduct required patrols of designated Fire Watch areas.
  • Maintain accurate Fire Watch logs and activity reports.
  • Identify and promptly report fire, life-safety, security, or property hazards.
  • Follow site-specific Fire Watch procedures and post orders.
  • Perform general security duties when assigned to security posts.
  • Monitor properties for unauthorized access, suspicious activity, safety concerns, and other issues.
  • Communicate professionally with clients, property representatives, supervisors, and members of the public.
  • Complete required written or digital reports accurately and on time.
  • Remain alert and attentive throughout the entire assigned shift.
  • Maintain a professional appearance and represent Guardian Security Agency appropriately while on duty.
Assignment Locations

Assignments are located throughout the Tampa Bay area, including Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, Manatee, and surrounding areas.

Officers should be comfortable working at different properties and locations rather than reporting to the same permanent post each week.

Minimum Requirements
  • Valid Florida Class D Security Officer License
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Reliable personal transportation
  • Ability and willingness to travel to assignments throughout Tampa Bay
  • Reliable cell phone and communication
  • Ability to report to scheduled assignments on time
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
  • Ability to complete accurate written and digital reports
  • Professional appearance and demeanor
  • Ability to remain alert and attentive for the duration of an assigned shift
  • Ability to walk, stand, and conduct patrols for extended periods when required
  • Dependable attendance and reliable work habits
Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous security officer experience
  • Previous Fire Watch experience
  • Experience working construction, commercial property, multifamily, or similar security assignments
  • Flexible availability, including nights and weekends
  • Ability to accept assignments on relatively short notice
  • Strong communication and report-writing skills

Previous Fire Watch experience is preferred but is not required. Officers will receive instructions and site-specific requirements for assigned Fire Watch posts.

Compensation

$19.00–$22.00 per hour, depending on the assignment, experience, responsibilities, and other applicable factors.

Opportunity for Full-Time Employment

Although this position begins as casual part-time/as-needed, there is strong potential to transition into consistent part-time or full-time employment.

Guardian Security Agency regularly receives new Fire Watch assignments, security contracts, temporary coverage requests, and other opportunities throughout Tampa Bay. When consistent positions become available, preference may be given to existing officers who have demonstrated:

  • Dependability and punctuality
  • Strong attendance
  • Professionalism
  • Quality performance
  • Flexible availability
  • Responsiveness to available assignments
  • Ability to work independently and follow post orders

For the right candidate, this position can serve as a pathway into a more consistent role with Guardian Security Agency.

About Guardian Security Agency

Guardian Security Agency of Florida is a locally owned and family-operated security company based in St. Petersburg, Florida. We provide Fire Watch and professional security services to clients throughout Tampa Bay.

We value officers who are dependable, professional, and take their responsibilities seriously. Because many of our Fire Watch and temporary security assignments are time-sensitive, reliability is one of the most important qualities we look for in this position.