Vessel Operator On-call

GRAYMAR ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES LLC•Auburn, WA

9h•$32 - $41•Onsite

About The Position

The Vessel Operator is responsible for safely operating, maintaining, and navigating vessels that support environmental emergency response, marine spill containment, and hazardous materials cleanup operations. This role ensures rapid deployment during incidents, provides on‑water logistical support, and assists field teams in protecting sensitive waterways and shorelines. The operator must be mission‑ready, safety‑focused, and capable of working in dynamic, high‑pressure environments.

Requirements

High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
Knowledge of spill response operations, containment boom handling, and environmental emergency procedures.
Familiarity with hazardous materials awareness and safe work practices (HAZWOPER 40‑hour certification strongly preferred).
Strong work ethic with a safety-first mindset.
Ability to work independently or part of a team while managing multiple tasks and deadlines.
Proven experience operating small vessels, workboats, skiffs, or similar crafts in marine or inland waterway environments.
Ability to work extended hours, irregular schedules, and emergency call‑outs.
Strong situational awareness and ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
Physical ability to lift equipment, handle lines, and work in adverse weather conditions.

Nice To Haves

Valid USCG Captain’s license (OUPV or higher) preferred; equivalent experience and WA State Boater’s Card considered, depending on jurisdiction and vessel type.

Responsibilities

Operate standby vessels to support oil spill response, hazmat cleanup, boom deployment, wildlife protection, and environmental monitoring activities.
Maintain vessel readiness, including fueling, inspections, preventive maintenance, and ensuring all safety and response equipment is onboard and operational.
Respond to emergency call‑outs on short notice, navigating safely in challenging conditions such as low visibility, strong currents, or contaminated waters.
Deploy, retrieve, and tend containment boom and other spill control equipment in coordination with response teams.
Transport personnel, equipment, and materials to and from incident sites while adhering to safety and environmental protocols.
Assist hazmat and environmental technicians with on‑water sampling, shoreline assessments, and debris recovery.
Follow all regulatory requirements, including USCG, OSHA, EPA, and company-specific safety procedures.
Document vessel operations, including logs, maintenance records, and incident support activities.
Participate in drills, training, and exercises to maintain operational readiness and certifications.
Support demobilization efforts, including equipment decontamination and vessel cleanup after response operations.
Perform other duties as assigned.