Sundance Marinas – Portland, Oregon
Sundance Marinas is seeking a Marine Forklift and Travel Lift Operator to join our team in Portland, Oregon. This hands-on role is based at our Hayden Island dry storage facility, where we store and launch hundreds of boats each season.
In this position, you will operate specialized marine equipment to safely move boats within the storage yard and between the water and storage racks. Safety, precision, and teamwork are essential to keeping the marina running smoothly.
This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys operating heavy equipment, working outdoors, and being part of the Pacific Northwest boating community.
About Sundance
Sundance began in 1972 as a boat yard and has grown into a network of four marinas, dry storage and three boat dealerships. We remain a third-generation family-run business operated by the Buck family, with many employees who have been with the company for decades. 
This role includes mentorship and training from Mike Ryther, a 30-year operator of marine forklifts and travel lifts who is widely respected throughout the company and boating community. 
Our dry storage facility houses up to 400 boats ranging from 20–30 feet, which are moved between rack storage and the launch area using marine forklifts. Travel lifts are also used to move larger vessels from 30–70 feet between the water and the yard. 
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Key Responsibilities
• Safely operate marine forklifts and travel lifts to load, unload, and transport boats within the dry storage yard
• Move vessels between rack storage, the launch area, and the water
• Conduct routine equipment inspections to ensure safe operation
• Assist with boat positioning, stacking, and secure handling
• Help load and unload supplies or equipment using pallet jacks or other yard equipment
• Follow OSHA safety procedures and marina operating standards
• Work closely with the marina team to maintain efficient daily operations
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Qualifications
• Experience operating heavy equipment such as forklifts, travel lifts, cranes, or similar machinery
• Strong mechanical knowledge and ability to perform basic equipment checks
• Understanding of OSHA safety standards related to equipment operation
• Ability to work in a physically active outdoor environment
• Experience in warehouse, construction, or marine operations is helpful but not required
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Compensation & Benefits
• $30 – $35 per hour (depending on experience) 
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Full-time position based in Portland, Oregon
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Apply Now
Interested in working on the water and operating specialized marine equipment?
Apply using the form below and our team will review your application.
Join Sundance Marinas and become part of a team that has supported the Northwest boating community for over 50 years.