Workboat Operator

Their duties include towing, pushing, and guiding ships, transporting supplies, and sometimes conducting maintenance or inspection tasks on vessels and marine equipment.

Operators must ensure safety protocols are followed while maneuvering vessels in tight or congested waters and coordinate with port authorities and ship crews. This role requires strong seamanship skills, knowledge of maritime regulations, and the ability to respond quickly to changing conditions at sea.

Future demand Low
Average yearly income $62,400
Skill level Unknown

How do I become a workboat operator?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced
MARSS00008

Shipboard Safety Skill Set
Blended, On Campus
1 - 3 days
$656 - $850
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Deckhand Workboat Operator
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Deckhand Workboat Operator
MARH023

Use of Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) to Maintain the Safety of Navigation
On Campus
5 days
$4,200
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Ship Master Watchkeeper Deck Officer Boat Master
Workboat Operator Marine Inspector Marine Surveyor
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Ship Master Watchkeeper Deck Officer Boat Master Workboat Operator Marine Inspector Marine Surveyor + 3 more
MARSS00033

Safety Training Certification Skill Set
Blended, On Campus
7 - 9 days
$2,745 - $2,878
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Deckhand Marine Engine Driver Coxswain
Marine Scientist Workboat Operator
+ 2 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Deckhand Marine Engine Driver Coxswain Marine Scientist Workboat Operator + 2 more
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

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Further reading

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1st September 2025

Adapting to Change: AI and the Future of Jobs in Australia

19th August 2025

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12th August 2025