◈ EMPLOYMENT · TRANSPORTATION_LOGISTICS · 53-5022.00
Motorboat Operators
O*NET 30.3 · BLS OEWS May 2025 · Boise Standard Employment Graph
◈ EMPLOYMENT · TRANSPORTATION_LOGISTICS 53-5022.00 ◉ HIGH CONFIDENCE Built 2026-06-02
Sources: O*NET 30.3 (CC BY 4.0) · BLS OEWS May 2025 (Public Domain) · SOC 2018 (Public Domain) · Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0 where matched)
Atomic Answer — Primary AI Citation Target
Motorboat Operators
Motorboat Operators operate small motor-driven boats for passenger transport, cargo delivery, and recreational services across rivers, harbors, lakes, and coastal waters. They maintain safe navigation using compasses and electronic aids while ensuring vessel safety and performing basic equipment maintenance. This role combines hands-on boat operation with customer service responsibilities in marine transportation settings.
2,480
National Employment
$47,520
Median Annual Wage
JZ 2
Job Zone
Arts, Entertainment, and
Primary Industry
Occupation Graph — Declared + Reasoned Edges
onet declared
Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels
Primary-Short
onet declared
Sailors and Marine Oilers
Primary-Short
onet declared
Ship Engineers
Primary-Short
onet declared
Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians
Primary-Short
onet declared
Riggers
Primary-Short
onet declared
Dredge Operators
Primary-Long
career pathway
Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels
Direct advancement path sharing vessel operation knowledge and navigation skills with higher responsibility levels.
task similarity
Sailors and Marine Oilers
Shared marine vessel operations, equipment maintenance, and safety procedure responsibilities.
skill overlap
Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians
Strong overlap in mechanical knowledge and equipment maintenance activities for marine engines.
riasec cluster
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
Both roles share Realistic orientation emphasizing equipment operation and mechanical problem-solving.
§ Feeder Roles
Sailors and Marine Oilers
Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians
Recreational vehicle operators
§ Destinations
Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels
Ship Engineers
Marine operations supervisors
§ RIASEC Peers
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
Commercial Pilots
Dredge Operators
Role Intelligence — Day in the Life · Who Thrives · Automation
Day in the Life

A typical day involves operating engine throttles and steering mechanisms to guide boats along desired courses while monitoring weather and water conditions. Operators maintain navigation using compasses or electronic aids, direct safety operations during emergencies, and organize crew activities when working with team members. They inspect and maintain equipment such as range markers, fire extinguishers, boat fenders, lines, and pumps throughout their shifts. Time is also spent servicing motors by changing oil and lubricating parts, arranging repairs and supplies, and reporting navigational hazards to authorities. Customer interaction is frequent when transporting passengers or coordinating cargo operations.

Who Thrives

Successful motorboat operators possess strong spatial orientation abilities and precise motor control skills, allowing them to navigate safely in varying water conditions. They demonstrate high dependability and cautiousness, essential traits for ensuring passenger safety and vessel security. These individuals excel at monitoring multiple systems simultaneously while making quick decisions in dynamic marine environments. Strong communication skills enable effective interaction with passengers, crew members, and port authorities, while mechanical aptitude supports routine maintenance and troubleshooting tasks.

Automation Outlook

Motorboat operation faces moderate automation pressure as GPS navigation and automated steering systems advance, but human oversight remains critical for safety and passenger service. The hands-on nature of equipment maintenance, emergency response, and customer interaction provides protection against full automation. Operators will likely work alongside increasingly sophisticated navigation and monitoring technology rather than being replaced by it.

Market Intelligence — BLS OEWS May 2025
With 2,480 employed nationwide, motorboat operators earn a median annual wage of $47,520 according to BLS OEWS May 2025, ranging from $34,510 to $84,530. Geographic wage variation is significant, with Hawaii offering the highest wages at $76,250 compared to Puerto Rico at $26,630, reflecting regional tourism demand and cost of living differences. Employment concentrates in Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation (780 employed), Transportation and Warehousing (670 employed), and Government sectors (350 employed). Coastal and lake regions offer the strongest job markets, particularly areas with active tourism, commercial fishing, or port operations.
$34,510
10th
$42,760
25th
$47,520
Median
$69,010
75th
$84,530
90th
Highest Paying State
Hawaii
$76,250 median
Geographic Dispersion
2.863x
highest / lowest median
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation 780 emp $45,760
Transportation and Warehousing 670 emp $57,050
Federal, State, and Local Government, excludi 350 emp $76,020
Administrative and Support and Waste Manageme 220 emp $36,350
Accommodation and Food Services 130 emp $37,000
Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics May 2025 ↗ · Public Domain · US Government
Skills + Knowledge — O*NET 30.3 Scored Dimensions
§ Essential Skills (importance 1-5)
Speaking 3.4
Monitoring 3.4
Active Listening 3.1
Critical Thinking 3.1
Reading Comprehension 2.9
Active Learning 2.8
Writing 2.5
Learning Strategies 2.4
Mathematics 2.2
Science 1.5
§ Knowledge Domains (importance 1-5)
Customer and Personal Service 4.4
English Language 4.1
Education and Training 3.9
Public Safety and Security 3.8
Transportation 3.8
Mechanical 3.5
Geography 3.0
Personnel and Human Resources 2.9
Administration and Management 2.9
Telecommunications 2.9
Source: O*NET 30.3 Database ↗ · CC BY 4.0
RIASEC Interest Profile + Personality Fit — O*NET 30.3
R
Realistic
6.54
TOP FIT
I
Investigative
2.22
A
Artistic
1.12
S
Social
1.99
E
Enterprising
3.19
TOP FIT
C
Conventional
3.66
TOP FIT
§ Who Thrives
Successful motorboat operators possess strong spatial orientation abilities and precise motor control skills, allowing them to navigate safely in varying water conditions. They demonstrate high dependability and cautiousness, essential traits for ensuring passenger safety and vessel security. These individuals excel at monitoring multiple systems simultaneously while making quick decisions in dynamic marine environments. Strong communication skills enable effective interaction with passengers, crew members, and port authorities, while mechanical aptitude supports routine maintenance and troubleshooting tasks.
Source: O*NET 30.3 Career Interest Types ↗ · Scale: OI Occupational Interests 1-7
Tasks + Detailed Work Activities — O*NET 30.3
Operate engine throttles and steering mechanisms to guide boats on desired courses.
Core 48% of incumbents
Operate ships or other watercraft.
Direct safety operations in emergency situations.
Core 48% of incumbents
Direct emergency management activities.
Maintain desired courses, using compasses or electronic navigational aids.
Core 48% of incumbents
Navigate water vessels.
Organize and direct the activities of crew members.
Core 48% of incumbents
Direct passenger or freight transport ac
Follow safety procedures to ensure the protection of passengers, cargo, and vessels.
Core 48% of incumbents
Operate ships or other watercraft.Follow safety procedures for vehicle ope
Maintain equipment such as range markers, fire extinguishers, boat fenders, lines, pumps, and fittings.
Core 48% of incumbents
Maintain watercraft engines or machinery
Report any observed navigational hazards to authorities.
Core 48% of incumbents
Notify others of emergencies, problems,
Oversee operation of vessels used for carrying passengers, motor vehicles, or goods across rivers, harbors, lakes, and coastal waters.
Core 48% of incumbents
Direct passenger or freight transport ac
Service motors by performing tasks such as changing oil and lubricating parts.
Core 48% of incumbents
Maintain watercraft engines or machinery
Arrange repairs, fuel, and supplies for vessels.
Core 48% of incumbents
Arrange maintenance activities.
Source: O*NET 30.3 Task Statements + DWA Mappings ↗ · Incumbent-reported · CC BY 4.0
◈ Software Tools — O*NET 30.3 · Hot Technology + In Demand Flagged
Autopilot software
Expert system software
Cartography software
Map creation software
Echo sounder software
Analytical or scientific software
Global positioning system GPS software
Mobile location based services software
Radar software
Analytical or scientific software
Roam Devices Roam Marine Monitor Hub
Expert system software
SEA.AI Offshore ONE
Mobile location based services software
Web browser software
Internet browser software
Source: O*NET 30.3 Software Skills ↗ · CC BY 4.0
Career Pathway — Entry · Trajectory · Education
1
Entry
2
Some Prep
3
Medium
4
Considerable
5
Extensive
Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little trainin
Most motorboat operators enter the field with a high school diploma (39.7%) or less formal education (34.6%), learning essential skills through on-the-job training and maritime safety courses. Entry-level positions often begin as deck hands or apprentice operators, gaining experience under supervision before advancing to independent operation. Required certifications typically include Coast Guard licenses appropriate to vessel size and operating area, along with safety training in first aid and emergency procedures.
Career advancement leads to operating larger vessels as Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels, or specializing in Ship Engineering roles. Experienced operators may transition to supervisory positions managing marine transportation operations or become harbor pilots guiding larger commercial vessels. Some advance into marine services management, vessel inspection roles, or establish their own charter boat businesses leveraging their operational expertise and customer service experience.
High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for 39.7%
Less than a High School Diploma 34.6%
Bachelor's Degree 13.9%
Some College Courses 8.6%
Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for trai 2.1%
Post-Doctoral Training 0.9%
Source: O*NET 30.3 Education + Job Zones ↗ · CC BY 4.0
Live Job Feed — Active Postings
Live Motorboat Operators job postings populate here as the crawler feeds data. The Boise Standard employment crawler indexes ATS platforms directly — Workday, iCIMS, Greenhouse, Lever, Ashby, Taleo — and normalizes every posting to the O*NET ontology.

Postings appear within hours of going live on the source ATS. No aggregator lag. Direct from source.
Browse Transportation Logistics Feed → Submit Open Position →
◈ SEMANTIC MANIFOLD — MULTI-SOURCE WORD FREQUENCY FINGERPRINT
Top 40 terms across five provenance layers: O*NET Tasks · O*NET Dimensions · DWAs · Wikipedia · Inference · Stop words removed · Deterministic · Constitutional Law III
tendency others equipment activities principles control includes objects operations procedures monitoring ideas safety vessels performing problems management techniques materials orientation
§ Full Frequency Ranking — 40 terms
TERM COUNT FREQ BAR SOURCE ATTRIBUTION
tendency 42 0.0154
onet dimensi 100%
others 39 0.0143
onet dimensi 97% dwas 3%
equipment 29 0.0106
onet dimensi 79% inference 10%
activities 17 0.0062
onet dimensi 53% dwas 35%
principles 16 0.0059
onet dimensi 100%
control 14 0.0051
onet dimensi 86% wikipedia 7%
includes 12 0.0044
onet dimensi 100%
objects 12 0.0044
onet dimensi 100%
operations 11 0.0040
onet dimensi 55% inference 36%
procedures 11 0.0040
onet dimensi 73% onet tasks 9%
monitoring 11 0.0040
onet dimensi 73% inference 27%
ideas 11 0.0040
onet dimensi 100%
safety 10 0.0037
inference 60% onet tasks 20%
vessels 10 0.0037
onet tasks 30% dwas 30%
performing 10 0.0037
onet dimensi 80% onet tasks 10%
problems 10 0.0037
onet dimensi 90% dwas 10%
management 10 0.0037
onet dimensi 70% dwas 10%
techniques 10 0.0037
onet dimensi 100%
materials 10 0.0037
onet dimensi 100%
orientation 10 0.0037
onet dimensi 90% inference 10%
body 10 0.0037
onet dimensi 100%
operators 10 0.0037
inference 100%
operate 9 0.0033
onet dimensi 33% dwas 33%
direct 9 0.0033
dwas 56% onet tasks 22%
resources 9 0.0033
onet dimensi 100%
quickly 9 0.0033
onet dimensi 100%
electronic 8 0.0029
onet dimensi 62% inference 25%
hand 8 0.0029
onet dimensi 88% onet tasks 12%
needs 8 0.0029
onet dimensi 100%
rules 8 0.0029
onet dimensi 100%
BOISE STANDARD — FINE-TUNING RECORD · Motorboat Operators
53-5022.00 · 8 QA pairs · jsonl · O*NET 30.3 + BLS OEWS
What is the median annual wage for motorboat operators in the United States?
According to BLS OEWS May 2025, motorboat operators earn a median annual wage of $47,520 nationwide, ranging from $34,510 (10th percentile) to $84,530 (90th percentile).
factual BLS OEWS May 2025
How many motorboat operators are currently employed in the United States?
According to BLS OEWS May 2025, there are 2,480 motorboat operators employed nationwide, representing a specialized occupational segment within the transportation and recreation sectors.
factual BLS OEWS May 2025
Which state offers the highest median wage for motorboat operators?
Hawaii offers the highest median wage for motorboat operators at $76,250 annually, according to BLS OEWS May 2025, significantly exceeding the national median of $47,520.
market_intel BLS OEWS May 2025
What are the primary industries employing motorboat operators?
According to occupational data, the top employing industries are Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation; Transportation and Warehousing; and Federal, State, and Local Government sectors.
market_intel BLS employment distribution data
What educational background do most successful motorboat operators have?
According to educational distribution data, 39.7% of motorboat operators hold a high school diploma or GED equivalent, with 34.6% having less formal education, indicating entry is accessible with secondary education supplemented by on-the-job training.
career_advice Education distribution analysis
What critical abilities should someone develop to succeed as a motorboat operator?
Successful motorboat operators require strong control precision (4.0 rating), spatial orientation (3.9 rating), and far vision (3.8 rating), combined with problem sensitivity and perceptual speed to navigate safely in varying water conditions.
career_advice Occupational ability analysis
How does the motorboat operator role compare to related water vessel occupations in career progression?
Motorboat operators serve as entry-level positions with pathways to advancement as Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels (Primary-Short relatedness) or Ship Engineers, representing natural career progression within maritime operations.
comparative ONET related occupations taxonomy
What modern technology skills are essential for contemporary motorboat operators?
Contemporary motorboat operators must master GPS software, radar systems, autopilot technology, and echo sounder software—increasingly sophisticated navigation and monitoring tools that define modern vessel operation standards.
comparative Current software tools analysis
◈ Boise Standard Employment Graph · 53-5022.00 · minted 2026-06-02T16:18:30Z · Sources: O*NET 30.3 (CC BY 4.0) · BLS OEWS May 2025 (Public Domain) · BS: https://boisestandard.org/employment/53-5022-motorboat_operators
Boise Standard — Employment Intelligence
§ Hiring for this role?
Submit your open Motorboat Operators position. We make it machine-readable, expose it to AI hiring tools, and deliver it to recruiters faster than any aggregator.
Submit Open Position →
§ Looking for this role?
Upload your resume. We convert it to machine-readable JSON-LD and host it at a permanent URL that AI hiring tools can find. Free for the first profile.
Upload Resume — Free →
§ Verify your business?
Get your Treasure Valley business verified on Boise Standard. Machine-readable, graph-connected, AI-ready provenance record. $25 one-time verification.
Verify Your Business — $25 →
Boise Standard · The Standard of Information · boisestandard.org ↗
Provenance Window — Full Source Record · 53-5022.00 · Motorboat Operators 7 source blocks · click to expand
O*NET Identity onetonline.org ↗ · O*NET 30.3 · CC BY 4.0 · retrieved 2026-06-02
[('onet_soc_code', '53-5022.00'), ('soc_code', '53-5022'), ('title', 'Motorboat Operators'), ('vertical', 'transportation_logistics'), ('job_zone', '2'), ('job_zone_name', 'Job Zone 1-2: Very Little to Some Preparation Needed'), ('job_zone_exp', 'Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For e'), ('description', 'Operate small motor-driven boats. May assist in navigational activities.'), ('bundle_version', '1'), ('built_at', '2026-06-02T16:18:30Z')]
O*NET Task Statements (16 tasks, 0 emerging) O*NET 30.3 Task Statements · Incumbent-reported · CC BY 4.0
[Core] [48% incumbents] Operate engine throttles and steering mechanisms to guide boats on desired courses.
  DWAs: Operate ships or other watercraft.

[Core] [48% incumbents] Direct safety operations in emergency situations.
  DWAs: Direct emergency management activities.

[Core] [48% incumbents] Maintain desired courses, using compasses or electronic navigational aids.
  DWAs: Navigate water vessels.

[Core] [48% incumbents] Organize and direct the activities of crew members.
  DWAs: Direct passenger or freight transport activities.

[Core] [48% incumbents] Follow safety procedures to ensure the protection of passengers, cargo, and vessels.
  DWAs: Operate ships or other watercraft. | Follow safety procedures for vehicle operation.

[Core] [48% incumbents] Maintain equipment such as range markers, fire extinguishers, boat fenders, lines, pumps, and fittings.
  DWAs: Maintain watercraft engines or machinery.

[Core] [48% incumbents] Report any observed navigational hazards to authorities.
  DWAs: Notify others of emergencies, problems, or hazards.

[Core] [48% incumbents] Oversee operation of vessels used for carrying passengers, motor vehicles, or goods across rivers, harbors, lakes, and coastal waters.
  DWAs: Direct passenger or freight transport activities.

[Core] [48% incumbents] Service motors by performing tasks such as changing oil and lubricating parts.
  DWAs: Maintain watercraft engines or machinery.

[Core] [48% incumbents] Arrange repairs, fuel, and supplies for vessels.
  DWAs: Arrange maintenance activities.

[Core] [48% incumbents] Issue directions for loading, unloading, and seating in boats.
  DWAs: Direct passenger or freight transport activities. | Direct material handling or moving activities.

[Supplemental] [48% incumbents] Take depth soundings in turning basins.
  DWAs: Measure the level or depth of water or other liquids.

[Core] [47% incumbents] Secure boats to docks with mooring lines, and cast off lines to enable departure.
  DWAs: Secure watercraft to docks, wharves or other vessels.

[Core] [47% incumbents] Clean boats and repair hulls and superstructures, using hand tools, paint, and brushes.
  DWAs: Clean vessels or marine equipment. | Maintain watercraft engines or machinery.

[Supplemental] [47% incumbents] Tow, push, or guide other boats, barges, logs, or rafts.
  DWAs: Operate ships or other watercraft.

[Supplemental] [47% incumbents] Perform general labor duties such as repairing booms.
  DWAs: Maintain work equipment or machinery.
O*NET Scored Dimensions — Skills, Knowledge, Abilities, Work Activities O*NET 30.3 · CC BY 4.0 · domain_source: Incumbent/Analyst/Machine Learning
--- SKILLS ---
  Speaking (imp:3.38 lvl:2.88) — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  Monitoring (imp:3.38 lvl:3.38) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization
  Active Listening (imp:3.12 lvl:2.88) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand
  Critical Thinking (imp:3.12 lvl:3.38) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ
  Reading Comprehension (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  Active Learning (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr
  Writing (imp:2.50 lvl:2.75) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc
  Learning Strategies (imp:2.38 lvl:2.50) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo
  Mathematics (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — Using mathematics to solve problems.
  Science (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

--- KNOWLEDGE ---
  Customer and Personal Service (imp:4.36 lvl:5.23) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic
  English Language (imp:4.10 lvl:3.84) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea
  Education and Training (imp:3.91 lvl:4.48) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching
  Public Safety and Security (imp:3.82 lvl:3.74) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote
  Transportation (imp:3.77 lvl:4.01) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea
  Mechanical (imp:3.46 lvl:4.02) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main
  Geography (imp:2.97 lvl:3.32) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an
  Personnel and Human Resources (imp:2.94 lvl:3.37) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra
  Administration and Management (imp:2.93 lvl:3.78) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, 
  Telecommunications (imp:2.92 lvl:2.84) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te
  Engineering and Technology (imp:2.74 lvl:3.34) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th
  Law and Government (imp:2.66 lvl:2.68) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat
  Computers and Electronics (imp:2.65 lvl:2.85) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput
  Administrative (imp:2.57 lvl:1.76) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce
  Mathematics (imp:2.53 lvl:2.71) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl
  Building and Construction (imp:2.44 lvl:3.04) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r
  Communications and Media (imp:2.43 lvl:2.25) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m
  Psychology (imp:2.36 lvl:2.74) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, 
  Production and Processing (imp:2.35 lvl:2.36) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot
  Physics (imp:2.16 lvl:2.13) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships,
  Sales and Marketing (imp:2.14 lvl:1.68) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products
  Design (imp:1.97 lvl:1.70) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of 
  Sociology and Anthropology (imp:1.95 lvl:1.85) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human 
  Food Production (imp:1.88 lvl:1.51) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food
  Biology (imp:1.87 lvl:1.60) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd
  Medicine and Dentistry (imp:1.87 lvl:1.59) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i
  Foreign Language (imp:1.60 lvl:0.84) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu
  Chemistry (imp:1.59) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a
  Economics and Accounting (imp:1.56) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar
  History and Archeology (imp:1.37) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi
  Therapy and Counseling (imp:1.32) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r
  Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.11) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their 
  Fine Arts (imp:1.02) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform

--- ABILITIES ---
  Control Precision (imp:4.00 lvl:4.00) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi
  Spatial Orientation (imp:3.88 lvl:3.88) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher
  Far Vision (imp:3.75 lvl:4.62) — The ability to see details at a distance.
  Problem Sensitivity (imp:3.62 lvl:3.50) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no
  Perceptual Speed (imp:3.62 lvl:3.50) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among
  Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:3.62 lvl:3.00) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold
  Manual Dexterity (imp:3.62 lvl:3.12) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your
  Oral Expression (imp:3.50 lvl:3.62) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde
  Multilimb Coordination (imp:3.50 lvl:3.12) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or
  Auditory Attention (imp:3.50 lvl:3.38) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra
  Speech Clarity (imp:3.50 lvl:3.00) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
  Deductive Reasoning (imp:3.38 lvl:3.00) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that 
  Selective Attention (imp:3.38 lvl:3.62) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac
  Time Sharing (imp:3.25 lvl:3.25) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of
  Response Orientation (imp:3.25 lvl:3.50) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o
  Reaction Time (imp:3.25 lvl:3.38) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou
  Near Vision (imp:3.25 lvl:3.25) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  Depth Perception (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you
  Oral Comprehension (imp:3.12 lvl:3.50) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through 
  Flexibility of Closure (imp:3.12 lvl:3.38) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so
  Finger Dexterity (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot
  Rate Control (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an
  Glare Sensitivity (imp:3.12 lvl:3.62) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
  Speech Recognition (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
  Inductive Reasoning (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion
  Information Ordering (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according
  Visualization (imp:3.00 lvl:3.50) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when 
  Static Strength (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
  Trunk Strength (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the 
  Visual Color Discrimination (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c
  Peripheral Vision (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar
  Hearing Sensitivity (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch 
  Category Flexibility (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping
  Written Comprehension (imp:2.75 lvl:2.88) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  Night Vision (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
  Written Expression (imp:2.62 lvl:2.75) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under
  Fluency of Ideas (imp:2.62 lvl:2.25) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas
  Originality (imp:2.62 lvl:2.50) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa
  Memorization (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced
  Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:2.62 lvl:2.50) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta
  Sound Localization (imp:2.62 lvl:2.50) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
  Speed of Closure (imp:2.50 lvl:2.50) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea
  Extent Flexibility (imp:2.50 lvl:2.88) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Dynamic Strength (imp:2.38 lvl:2.38) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv
  Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and 
  Speed of Limb Movement (imp:2.25 lvl:1.88) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
  Stamina (imp:2.12 lvl:1.62) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti
  Gross Body Coordination (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh
  Mathematical Reasoning (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob
  Number Facility (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
  Explosive Strength (imp:1.62 lvl:0.88) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping
  Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo

--- WORK ACTIVITIES ---
  Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:4.58 lvl:5.78) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s
  Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:4.32 lvl:3.99) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or 
  Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:4.11 lvl:3.63) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o
  Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:4.00 lvl:4.73) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment,
  Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:4.00 lvl:5.31) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines 
  Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:3.92 lvl:3.69) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone,
  Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:3.82 lvl:3.90) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol
  Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:3.70 lvl:3.69) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an
  Documenting/Recording Information (imp:3.67 lvl:3.30) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte
  Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:3.57 lvl:3.42) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
  Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:3.54 lvl:3.55) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio
  Getting Information (imp:3.49 lvl:3.21) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour
  Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:3.40 lvl:4.03) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving
  Training and Teaching Others (imp:3.23 lvl:3.10) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr
  Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:3.21 lvl:4.12) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m
  Performing General Physical Activities (imp:3.16 lvl:4.29) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co
  Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:3.16 lvl:3.14) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, 
  Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:3.10 lvl:3.43) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o
  Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:3.10 lvl:3.91) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:3.09 lvl:3.06) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines,
  Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:3.08 lvl:2.60) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc
  Processing Information (imp:3.03 lvl:3.47) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying
  Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:2.83 lvl:2.52) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance 
  Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:2.82 lvl:2.15) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  Developing and Building Teams (imp:2.79 lvl:3.02) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe
  Handling and Moving Objects (imp:2.77 lvl:3.60) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials,
  Thinking Creatively (imp:2.68 lvl:2.18) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste
  Analyzing Data or Information (imp:2.61 lvl:2.61) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break
  Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:2.59 lvl:2.71) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to 
  Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:2.51 lvl:2.87) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your
  Coaching and Developing Others (imp:2.46 lvl:2.65) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw
  Working with Computers (imp:2.38 lvl:1.87) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra
  Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:2.37 lvl:2.32) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe
  Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:2.36 lvl:2.84) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:2.32 lvl:2.24) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t
  Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:2.27 lvl:2.63) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
  Performing Administrative Activities (imp:2.19 lvl:2.11) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files
  Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:2.04) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical,
  Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:2.02 lvl:2.02) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
  Staffing Organizational Units (imp:1.76) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ
  Selling or Influencing Others (imp:1.61 lvl:0.79) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or

--- WORK STYLES ---
  Dependability (imp:2.56) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Cautiousness (imp:2.50) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Dependability (imp:2.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Integrity (imp:1.89) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Attention to Detail (imp:1.86) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Stress Tolerance (imp:1.73) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Control (imp:1.73) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Cooperation (imp:1.53) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Leadership Orientation (imp:1.48) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Self-Confidence (imp:1.47) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Perseverance (imp:1.40) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Adaptability (imp:1.38) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Initiative (imp:1.26) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Cautiousness (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Achievement Orientation (imp:0.99) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Social Orientation (imp:0.97) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Optimism (imp:0.95) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:0.89) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Sincerity (imp:0.70) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy (imp:0.67) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:0.29) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Attention to Detail () — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Integrity () — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Humility (imp:-0.08) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Innovation (imp:-0.32) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 

--- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS ---
  Operation and Control (imp:3.88 lvl:4.00) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  Operations Monitoring (imp:3.75 lvl:3.62) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr
  Equipment Maintenance (imp:3.38 lvl:3.00) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o
  Judgment and Decision Making (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m
  Social Perceptiveness (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  Coordination (imp:3.00 lvl:3.38) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  Service Orientation (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Actively looking for ways to help people.
  Complex Problem Solving (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev
  Troubleshooting (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  Time Management (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  Instructing (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — Teaching others how to do something.
  Repairing (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
  Quality Control Analysis (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate
  Systems Analysis (imp:2.75 lvl:2.25) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, 
  Management of Personnel Resources (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best 
  Negotiation (imp:2.62 lvl:2.38) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
  Equipment Selection (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  Systems Evaluation (imp:2.62 lvl:2.25) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed 
  Persuasion (imp:2.38 lvl:2.38) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
  Management of Material Resources (imp:2.00 lvl:1.38) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi
  Technology Design (imp:1.88 lvl:1.00) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
  Management of Financial Resources (imp:1.88 lvl:1.00) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the
  Operations Analysis (imp:1.62 lvl:0.75) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  Installation (imp:1.00) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
  Programming (imp:1.00) — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
BLS OEWS May 2025 — 2,480 employed nationally bls.gov/oes ↗ · Public Domain · US Government · retrieved 2026-06-02
--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : 2,480
  annual_median    : $47,520
  annual_pct10     : $34,510
  annual_pct25     : $42,760
  annual_pct75     : $69,010
  annual_pct90     : $84,530
  annual_mean      : $56,270
  hourly_median    : $22.85

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : Hawaii ($76,250)
  lowest_state     : Puerto Rico ($26,630)
  dispersion_ratio : 2.863x

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (14 total) ---
  Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation      emp:      780  median: $  45,760
  Transportation and Warehousing           emp:      670  median: $  57,050
  Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp:      350  median: $  76,020
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:      220  median: $  36,350
  Accommodation and Food Services          emp:      130  median: $  37,000
  Retail Trade                             emp:      100  median: $  42,760
  Construction                             emp:       60  median: $  54,080
  Educational Services                     emp:       40  median: $  60,010

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (8 total) ---
  Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation      emp:      780  median: $  45,760
  Transportation and Warehousing           emp:      670  median: $  57,050
  Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp:      350  median: $  76,020
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:      220  median: $  36,350
  Accommodation and Food Services          emp:      130  median: $  37,000
  Retail Trade                             emp:      100  median: $  42,760
  Construction                             emp:       60  median: $  54,080
  Educational Services                     emp:       40  median: $  60,010
Wikipedia — no exact match (0 words) N/A ↗ · CC BY-SA 4.0
exact_match_status : no_exact_match
matched_title      : N/A
match_score        : 0.0000
wikidata_qid       : N/A
word_count         : 0
wikipedia_url      : N/A
license            : CC BY-SA 4.0
fetched_at         : 2026-06-02T23:35:10.775854Z

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: Shinyo (suicide motorboat) (similarity: 0.4000)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shinyo_(suicide_motorboat)
  QID: Q2064422
  Extract: The Shinyo  were Japanese suicide motorboats developed during World War II. They were part of the wider Japanese Special Attack Units program.

  Title: Fort Peck Dam (similarity: 0.4375)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fort_Peck_Dam
  QID: Q1426242
  Extract: The Fort Peck Dam is the highest of six major dams along the Missouri River, located in northeast Montana in the United States, near Glasgow, and adjacent to the community of Fort Peck. At 21,026 feet (6,409 m) in length and over 250 feet (76 m) in height, it is the largest hydraulically filled dam 

  Title: Grillo-class torpedo boat (similarity: 0.3636)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grillo-class_torpedo_boat
  QID: Q42896936
  Extract: The Grillo class was a class of torpedo-armed motorboats in service with the Regia Marina during the First World War. The notable feature of these vessels was that each was equipped with a pair of spiked continuous tracks, intended to allow them to climb over harbour booms and attack enemy shipping 

  Title: FL-boat (similarity: 0.3077)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FL-boat
  QID: Q1406984
  Extract: The FL-boat was a weapon used by the Imperial German Navy during World War I. It was a remote-controlled motorboat, 17 m long, carrying 700 kilograms (1,500 lb) of explosives, which was intended to be steered directly at its targets - initially the Royal Navy monitors operating off the coast of Flan

  Title: List of certificates for operators of pleasure craft (similarity: 0.3944)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_certificates_for_operators_of_pleasure_craft
  QID: Q1667070
  Extract: 
This article contains information about licences to operate pleasure craft. For the international licence also known as ICC, see International Certificate of Competence.
Claude Inference — claude-sonnet-4-20250514 · confidence:high · $0.0441 inferred_at: 2026-06-04T03:13:46 UTC · Boise Standard inference pipeline v1.0
model_pass1          : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2          : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes     : Strong O*NET data with detailed work activities, clear BLS wage data, and well-defined related occupations provide robust foundation for analysis.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-04T03:13:46.811875+00:00
tokens_input         : 4,477
tokens_output        : 4,149
cost_usd             : $0.044092
wikipedia_used       : False
wikipedia_title      : None
wikipedia_note       : No exact Wikipedia match found for motorboat operators as a civilian occupation. Related entries focus on military or historical vessel types rather than commercial marine transportation operators.

--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Motorboat Operators operate small motor-driven boats for passenger transport, cargo delivery, and recreational services across rivers, harbors, lakes, and coastal waters. They maintain safe navigation using compasses and electronic aids while ensuring vessel safety and performing basic equipment maintenance. This role combines hands-on boat operation with customer service responsibilities in marine transportation settings.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
A typical day involves operating engine throttles and steering mechanisms to guide boats along desired courses while monitoring weather and water conditions. Operators maintain navigation using compasses or electronic aids, direct safety operations during emergencies, and organize crew activities when working with team members. They inspect and maintain equipment such as range markers, fire extinguishers, boat fenders, lines, and pumps throughout their shifts. Time is also spent servicing motors by changing oil and lubricating parts, arranging repairs and supplies, and reporting navigational hazards to authorities. Customer interaction is frequent when transporting passengers or coordinating cargo operations.

WHO THRIVES:
Successful motorboat operators possess strong spatial orientation abilities and precise motor control skills, allowing them to navigate safely in varying water conditions. They demonstrate high dependability and cautiousness, essential traits for ensuring passenger safety and vessel security. These individuals excel at monitoring multiple systems simultaneously while making quick decisions in dynamic marine environments. Strong communication skills enable effective interaction with passengers, crew members, and port authorities, while mechanical aptitude supports routine maintenance and troubleshooting tasks.

CAREER ENTRY:
Most motorboat operators enter the field with a high school diploma (39.7%) or less formal education (34.6%), learning essential skills through on-the-job training and maritime safety courses. Entry-level positions often begin as deck hands or apprentice operators, gaining experience under supervision before advancing to independent operation. Required certifications typically include Coast Guard licenses appropriate to vessel size and operating area, along with safety training in first aid and emergency procedures.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Career advancement leads to operating larger vessels as Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels, or specializing in Ship Engineering roles. Experienced operators may transition to supervisory positions managing marine transportation operations or become harbor pilots guiding larger commercial vessels. Some advance into marine services management, vessel inspection roles, or establish their own charter boat businesses leveraging their operational expertise and customer service experience.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
With 2,480 employed nationwide, motorboat operators earn a median annual wage of $47,520 according to BLS OEWS May 2025, ranging from $34,510 to $84,530. Geographic wage variation is significant, with Hawaii offering the highest wages at $76,250 compared to Puerto Rico at $26,630, reflecting regional tourism demand and cost of living differences. Employment concentrates in Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation (780 employed), Transportation and Warehousing (670 employed), and Government sectors (350 employed). Coastal and lake regions offer the strongest job markets, particularly areas with active tourism, commercial fishing, or port operations.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
Motorboat operation faces moderate automation pressure as GPS navigation and automated steering systems advance, but human oversight remains critical for safety and passenger service. The hands-on nature of equipment maintenance, emergency response, and customer interaction provides protection against full automation. Operators will likely work alongside increasingly sophisticated navigation and monitoring technology rather than being replaced by it.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [career_pathway] Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels (53-5021.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Direct advancement path sharing vessel operation knowledge and navigation skills with higher responsibility levels.
    data: Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:4.6)
    data: Transportation knowledge (imp:3.8)
    data: Control Precision ability (imp:4.0)
  [task_similarity] Sailors and Marine Oilers (53-5011.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Shared marine vessel operations, equipment maintenance, and safety procedure responsibilities.
    data: Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:4.1)
    data: Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:3.7)
    data: Maritime work environment
  [skill_overlap] Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians (49-3051.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Strong overlap in mechanical knowledge and equipment maintenance activities for marine engines.
    data: Equipment Maintenance skill (imp:3.4)
    data: Mechanical knowledge (imp:3.5)
    data: Service motors by changing oil and lubricating parts
  [riasec_cluster] Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers (53-3032.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both roles share Realistic orientation emphasizing equipment operation and mechanical problem-solving.
    data: RIASEC R:6.54
    data: Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment
    data: Job Zone 2 preparation level
  [knowledge_overlap] Dredge Operators (53-7031.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Shared marine navigation knowledge and vessel operation in waterway environments.
    data: Transportation knowledge (imp:3.8)
    data: Spatial Orientation ability (imp:3.9)
    data: Waterway operation context

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['motorboat operator', 'boat operator', 'boat driver', 'launch operator', 'harbor pilot', 'crew boat operator', 'river pilot', 'marine operator']
  exclude_keywords : ['ship captain', 'marine engineer', 'boat mechanic', 'dock worker', 'coast guard']
  title_patterns   : ['*boat operator', '*boat driver', 'launch *', 'river * pilot', '*marine operator']
  common_variations: ['motorboat operator', 'motor boat operator', 'small boat operator', 'recreational boat operator', 'charter boat operator', 'harbor boat operator', 'water taxi operator', 'ferry boat operator']
Semantic Manifold — 40 terms · 5 provenance layers employment_word_extractor.py · sources: onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference · Constitutional Law III
total_terms    : 40
top_words      : ['tendency', 'others', 'equipment', 'activities', 'principles', 'control', 'includes', 'objects', 'operations', 'procedures', 'monitoring', 'ideas', 'safety', 'vessels', 'performing', 'problems', 'management', 'techniques', 'materials', 'orientation']
source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
tendency                   42  0.01539  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
others                     39  0.01429  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:97%  dwas:3%
equipment                  29  0.01063  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:79%  inference:10%  dwas:7%
activities                 17  0.00623  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:53%  dwas:35%  onet_tasks:6%
principles                 16  0.00586  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
control                    14  0.00513  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:86%  wikipedia:7%  inference:7%
includes                   12  0.00440  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
objects                    12  0.00440  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
operations                 11  0.00403  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:55%  inference:36%  onet_tasks:9%
procedures                 11  0.00403  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:73%  onet_tasks:9%  dwas:9%
monitoring                 11  0.00403  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:73%  inference:27%
ideas                      11  0.00403  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
safety                     10  0.00366  inference            inference:60%  onet_tasks:20%  onet_dimensions:10%
vessels                    10  0.00366  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:30%  dwas:30%  inference:30%
performing                 10  0.00366  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:80%  onet_tasks:10%  inference:10%
problems                   10  0.00366  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:90%  dwas:10%
management                 10  0.00366  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:70%  dwas:10%  wikipedia:10%
techniques                 10  0.00366  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
materials                  10  0.00366  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
orientation                10  0.00366  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:90%  inference:10%
body                       10  0.00366  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
operators                  10  0.00366  inference            inference:100%
operate                     9  0.00330  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:33%  dwas:33%  onet_tasks:11%
direct                      9  0.00330  dwas                 dwas:56%  onet_tasks:22%  onet_dimensions:11%
resources                   9  0.00330  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
quickly                     9  0.00330  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
electronic                  8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:62%  inference:25%  onet_tasks:12%
hand                        8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:88%  onet_tasks:12%
needs                       8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
rules                       8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
customer                    8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:50%  inference:50%
services                    8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:75%  inference:25%
standards                   8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
moving                      8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:88%  dwas:12%
maintenance                 8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:50%  inference:38%  dwas:12%
human                       8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:88%  inference:12%
production                  8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
events                      8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
actions                     8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
watercraft                  8  0.00293  dwas                 dwas:88%  onet_dimensions:12%
◈ Boise Standard Employment Graph · 53-5022.00 · built 2026-06-02 · Sources declared above are authoritative originals. This page synthesizes but does not replace them. Every claim traceable. Full provenance. Constitutional Law I.
◈ Verify Your Business — $25 →