Motorboat Operators

What the job really is

Operate small motor-driven boats. May assist in navigational activities.

At a glance

• Sector: Transportation & Material Moving
• O*NET-SOC code: 53-5022
• O*NET job zone: 2 — some preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• Direct safety operations in emergency situations.
• Operate engine throttles and steering mechanisms to guide boats on desired courses.
• Secure boats to docks with mooring lines, and cast off lines to enable departure.
• Maintain desired courses, using compasses or electronic navigational aids.
• Organize and direct the activities of crew members.
• Follow safety procedures to ensure the protection of passengers, cargo, and vessels.
• Maintain equipment such as range markers, fire extinguishers, boat fenders, lines, pumps, and fittings.
• Report any observed navigational hazards to authorities.
• Oversee operation of vessels used for carrying passengers, motor vehicles, or goods across rivers, harbors, lakes, and coastal waters.
• Service motors by performing tasks such as changing oil and lubricating parts.
• Arrange repairs, fuel, and supplies for vessels.
• Issue directions for loading, unloading, and seating in boats.

Tools and technology

Adjustable wrench sets, Air horns, Anchor lights, Automatic bilge pumps, Autopilot software, Backfire flame arrestors, Binoculars, Boat hooks, Boat steering mechanisms, Boat tillers, Boat towing hooks, Boat towing trailers

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels
• Sailors and Marine Oilers
• Ship Engineers
• Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians
• Riggers
• Dredge Operators
• Locomotive Engineers
• Hoist and Winch Operators

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 2 (some preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

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Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Motorboat Operators — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.