Motorboat Operator

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

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: Boat Operator; Crew Boat Operator; Harbor Pilot; Launch Operator; Launchman; Motorboat Operator; River Pilot; Shoreboat Driver; Water Taxi Business Operator; Water Taxi Operator

Tasks

• Operate engine throttles and steering mechanisms to guide boats on desired courses.
• Direct safety operations in emergency situations.
• 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.
• Clean boats and repair hulls and superstructures, using hand tools, paint, and brushes.

Knowledge

• Customer and Personal Service
• English Language
• Education and Training
• Public Safety and Security
• Transportation
• Mechanical

Skills

• Speaking
• Monitoring
• Active Listening
• Critical Thinking

Abilities

• Control Precision
• Spatial Orientation
• Far Vision
• Problem Sensitivity
• Perceptual Speed
• Arm-Hand Steadiness
• Manual Dexterity
• Oral Expression
• Multilimb Coordination
• Auditory Attention
• Speech Clarity
• Deductive Reasoning
• Selective Attention
• Time Sharing
• Response Orientation
• Reaction Time
• Near Vision
• Depth Perception
• Oral Comprehension
• Flexibility of Closure
• Finger Dexterity
• Rate Control
• Glare Sensitivity
• Speech Recognition
• Inductive Reasoning
• Information Ordering
• Visualization
• Static Strength
• Trunk Strength
• Visual Color Discrimination
• Peripheral Vision
• Hearing Sensitivity