Vessel Operator

Vessel Operator

The Vessel Operator is responsible for safely operating and maintaining response vessels while supporting emergency environmental response and remediation projects. This role plays a critical part in on-water oil spill response activities, including containment, recovery, and cleanup operations. 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, the ability to work in challenging outdoor and industrial environments, and flexibility to respond to emergencies outside of normal business hours.

Job Responsibilities:

• Execution of field work encompassed in marine projects while under direct or indirect supervision.
• Safely operate and maintain response vessels ranging from 24 to 32 feet in length.
• The ability to safely drive and perform safety checks on all vehicles for which licensed.
• Tow, launch, and retrieve vessels and related equipment.
• Deploy and operate oil spill response equipment, including containment boom, skimmers, pumps, and ancillary tools.
• Perform routine vessel inspections and basic maintenance to ensure operational readiness.
• Respond to emergency on-water oil spills and other environmental emergencies.
• Conduct containment, recovery, and cleanup activities in marine and shoreline environments.
• Support environmental remediation, industrial cleaning, and other non-emergency service projects.
• Participate in after-hours, weekend, and holiday emergency callouts as needed.
• Adhere to all company policies, client requirements, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Participate in daily safety meetings, toolbox talks, and job hazard analyses.
• Maintain compliance with site-specific health and safety plans.
• Properly use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow hazardous materials handling procedures.
• Complete daily work reports, timesheets, and safety documentation accurately and on time.
• Report equipment issues, incidents, and safety concerns promptly.
• Due to the diversity of both scheduled and non-scheduled projects, physical demands, and environmental conditions vary significantly depending on the project.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements:

• Work outdoors in all weather conditions, including rain, heat, cold, and wind.
• Perform duties in marine, industrial, and hazardous environments.
• Frequently lift, carry, and move equipment weighing 50 pounds or more.
• Stand, walk, bend, climb, and perform physically demanding tasks for extended periods.
• May be required to travel to response locations and work extended shifts during emergencies.

Required Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Valid Driver’s License with a satisfactory driving record.
• Experience operating small vessels.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow safety procedures and technical instructions.
• Ability to work flexible schedules and respond to emergency callouts.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A or B.
• United States Coast Guard OUPV (“6-Pack”) License.
• Transportation Security Administration TWIC Card.
• Previous oil spill response, marine operations, or environmental remediation experience.
• OSHA HAZWOPER certification (40-hour).

Schedule & Availability:

• Flexible schedule with on-call availability required.
• Must be available to work nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours during emergency response operations.
• Overtime and travel may be required based on project and response needs.

What We Offer:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Company paid Life, AD&D, and Long-Term Disability Insurance Plans
• Employee Assistance, Health Advocate, and Wellness Programs
• Generous 401(k) Plan with 4% match
• Company paid Financial Advice Program
• Career development opportunities, including our Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Paid Vacation based on years of service

Moran Environmental Recovery is an Equal Opportunity Employer.