Ferry Boat Captain (Seasonal)

Job Title

Performs skilled work involving the operation of town owned ferry vessels.

Job Description

Essential features include piloting ferries carrying passengers, supplies and materials, and making all scheduled landings in a safe manner. Assumes the role of Vessel Security Officer when serving as master of subchapter K vessels in the fleet in accordance with the Vessel Security Plan. Checks vessel, floats, gangways and dock areas for safety and cleanliness; loads supplies and water; inspects the condition of engines and vessel equipment. Participates in preparing vessels for summer use; prepares and paints surfaces; loads life preservers and other safety equipment and performs all other work incidental to putting the vessel in first class condition. Assists in engine repairs and overhaul; assists in replacing plumbing, exhaust piping, and marine wiring. May assist in the maintenance and repair work on landing floats, docks, structures and other Parks and Recreation facilities, as directed, when the vessel is not in operation. Performs related work as required. Required knowledge, skills and abilities include thorough knowledge of and the ability to follow the rules and regulations of the United States Coast Guard, Federal Communications Commission and the State of Connecticut Department of Public Safety, Division of Homeland Security. Considerable knowledge of seamanship, vessel operation and handling. Considerable knowledge of all pertinent regulations of the United States Coast Guard regarding type "T" and "K" passenger ferries. Knowledge of navigation hazards and weather conditions in Long Island Sound. Knowledge of maintenance and repair needs of vessels, marine engines and auxiliary equipment. Considerable knowledge of the needs and uses of standard safety equipment for vessels and ability to provide and direct the use of such equipment in emergencies. Skilled in piloting and navigating vessels under varying weather conditions and ability to respond quickly and reasonably in emergencies. Ability to supervise subordinates in the care and operation of vessel equipment. Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with the general public. Ability to maintain accurate daily records, ship's log, record keeping, etc. Ability to operate passenger vessel up to 100 gross tons. Operate marine auxiliary equipment. Operate machines, power tools, and equipment used in several of the building and marine trades and two way radio system. Ability to perform the physical aspects of the position including, heavy lifting, 100 lbs. occasionally, 50 lbs. frequently, 20 lbs constantly, 7 hours a day. Remaining at helm of vessel up to 12 hours a day. Pushing, pulling, carrying, climbing. Boarding and unboarding vessels, docks and floats. Enter and work in tight vessel compartments. Ability to swim.

Qualifications

Must possess a valid Department of Transportation, United States Coast Guard, U.S. Merchant Marine Officer License to operate as Master of Inspected Passenger Motor Vessels of 100 Gross Registered Tons (Domestic) upon Inland Waters. Must also possess a Federal Communication Commission Marine Radio Operator Permit and a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC card). Applicants possessing a License of 25 or 50 Gross Registered Tons (Domestic) upon Inland Waters without restrictions will be considered based on operational need.

Supplemental Information

All outside candidates will be required to undertake and successfully pass a pre-employment medical examination, which includes a substance abuse test that includes testing for THC (the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana), given at the Town's expense prior to employment if conditionally offered a part time, full time or safety sensitive position.