Manager Marine Operations

Job Description

Job Description

Manager Marine Operations:

Are you passionate about hospitality and creating exceptional guest experiences? Pontoon Saloon and Nashville Water Taxi, Nashville’s premier passenger vessel operations, are looking for an experienced manager within Passenger Vessel Experience & Sales to join our dynamic team. This role is perfect for a self-starter with a strong work ethic and a knack for growing business and a startup atmosphere. 

Job Profile: Manager Marine Operations

Company: Pontoon Saloon

Location: Nashville, TN — Cumberland River Waterfront (Lock One Marina)

Reports To: GM/Founder / Owner.

Employment Type: Full-Time.

Position Summary:

Pontoon Saloon is seeking a highly organized and experienced Manager of Marine Operations to oversee our dynamic waterfront activities across our pontoon, water taxi, and marina. This leadership role is the backbone of our marine division, directly responsible for the safe, efficient, and professional operation of our fleet and riverfront facilities. The ideal candidate is a seasoned mariner with a passion for team development, exceptional logistical skills, and a steadfast commitment to maritime safety.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Crew Management:

• Direct Leadership: Serve as the primary leader and manager for all vessel Captains, fostering a culture of professionalism, safety, and excellence.
• Dockmaster Supervision: Manage and support Dockmasters, ensuring smooth dockside operations and seamless communication between vessels and shore.
• Staffing & Onboarding: Oversee the full lifecycle of marine staff employment — hiring, interviewing, and comprehensive onboarding for all crew members.
• Scheduling: Build, manage, and optimize the master schedule for all Captains, Dockmasters, and marine crew to ensure adequate coverage for daily operations and special events.

Training & Safety:

• Safety Protocols: Develop, implement, and rigorously enforce comprehensive safety protocols and emergency procedures for all vessels and riverfront operations.
• Training Programs: Lead all training initiatives for Captains and crew, including specialized training for riverfront staff.
• Documentation & Compliance: Maintain meticulous documentation for crew training, vessel safety logs, and operational compliance, ensuring readiness for internal and external audits.

Operations & Event Management:

• Event Logistics: Lead the setup, organization, and execution of marine-based events, private charters, and specialized riverfront programming.
• Water Taxi Operations: Oversee daily logistics and schedule adherence for the water taxi service, ensuring a reliable, excellent guest experience.
• Facility & Fleet Readiness: Work closely with maintenance teams to ensure all vessels and dock areas are presentable, safe, and fully operational.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Licensing (Preferred): Active USCG Master's License strongly preferred.
• Industry Affiliation (Preferred): Active membership in the Passenger Vessel Association (PVA) highly desired.
• Experience: Proven management experience in marine operations, passenger vessels, or fleet management.
• Leadership Skills: Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and schedule a diverse team of maritime professionals.
• Organizational Skills: Exceptional logistical capabilities with the ability to juggle daily operations alongside complex event setups.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to create clear documentation and training materials.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

• Ability to work dynamically in both an office setting and outdoors on the riverfront in varying weather conditions.
• Seasonal business with heavy on-site and available presence during season on weekends, evenings, and holidays, to align with event schedules and peak operational seasons.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary: $80,000 + 10K Bonus.
• Benefits: Healthcare, 401k, HSA, Paid time off.