Motorboat Operators
Transportation and Material Moving
Hands on the throttle and steering keep a small motorboat on course, using a compass or electronic aids, then mooring lines secure it at the dock or come off so it can leave. Safety procedures cover passengers, cargo, and the boat itself; fire extinguishers, fenders, lines, pumps, fittings, and range markers have to stay in working order. Navigational hazards spotted on the water get reported to authorities. A small crew may be organized and directed, including during an emergency. Suits people who like handling a small boat themselves and staying responsible for the people and gear aboard.
Typical education: High School Diploma or GED
Annual Median Wage in Field (2025)
$47'520
Median Wage Market Position
$47'520
What you might do
- Work the throttle and wheel to hold a heading
- Stay on course with compasses or electronic aids
- Tie the boat up and cast off the lines
- Organize the crew and lead emergency actions
- Check fire extinguishers, lines, pumps, and fittings
- Alert authorities to hazards seen on the water
Skills that matter
- Throttle and wheel work on small boats
- Crew direction during boat emergencies
- Holding course by compass or electronics
- Tying up and casting off at the dock
- Care of extinguishers, fenders, and pumps
- Telling authorities about navigation hazards
AI & the future of this role
Running small boats requires on-water skill, passenger safety, and adaptation to weather, traffic, and local conditions. Routing tools may help, but in-person operation and responsibility for people and craft still protect much of the work.
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Includes O*NET® 30.3 Database information by USDOL/ETA under CC BY 4.0; modified by LostInCareer. Wage/outlook from BLS. Attribution details