Ferry Captain

Full-Time Weekend Ferry Captain Position Available

About Us

Herron Island is a small, nonprofit community in South Puget Sound, accessible by ferry from the Key Peninsula, about 45 minutes from Tacoma, WA. Our community of just under 400 properties is a serene haven we proudly call heaven on earth. If you are looking for an opportunity to be part of a unique island lifestyle, while working with a team that values safety, teamwork, and exceptional customer service, this job may be for you!

HMC operates the private vehicle/passenger ferry, Charlie Wells, serving Herron Island residents and their guests. We are currently seeking a weekend captain to join our ferry operations team. This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position with a schedule spanning Friday through Monday. The role is vital to the community, providing essential transportation services and availability for rare after-hours emergencies.

To ensure emergency readiness, living on the island during your shifts is required. This arrangement not only supports the ferry’s critical role but also offers a unique lifestyle opportunity. Many of our dedicated ferry staff have embraced island living as a chance to enjoy a balanced, slower-paced life surrounded by natural beauty. The island provides a range of housing options to meet your needs, from short-term rentals to opportunities for purchasing a home and establishing roots in this special community.

Job Summary

The Ferry Captain oversees the safe and efficient operation of the 65-foot double-ended ferry, transporting up to 11 vehicles and passengers per 10–15-minute passage between the island and Key Peninsula This role is accountable for ensuring compliance with maritime regulations, crew supervision, and upholding the highest standards of safety and professionalism.

Key Responsibilities

· Operate the ferry vessel safely and efficiently under all weather and sea conditions, including high winds, extreme tides, heavy currents, and low visibility.

· Work a regular shift as ferry operator and maintain the ferry’s operational schedule.

· Supervise and assist the deckhand/purser with loading, unloading, and securing vehicles.

· Supervise vehicle loading to prevent accidents, imbalances, and overloading, and enforce weight restrictions.

· Ensure compliance with Inland Navigation Rules of the Road and good seamanship practices.

· Monitor and enforce applicable HMC policies and ensure Federal and State regulations are strictly adhered to.

· Train and lead ferry personnel as necessary.

· Conduct emergency drills and exercises, such as fire response, collision procedures, man overboard, fog navigation, and grounding.

· Track and report Coast Guard counts of passengers and vehicles to ensure regulatory compliance.

· Maintain the ship’s log and submit reports on vessel operations, incidents, and maintenance.

· Report all marine incidents, accidents, injuries, or deaths to the U.S. Coast Guard.

· Ensure the ferry is safely berthed during non-operating hours and maintain care of ferry landings.

· Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required:

· High School diploma or equivalent.

· Minimum of 2 years of experience in marine operations as a licensed Captain.

· Valid U.S. Coast Guard 100-ton Master Inland endorsement or greater.

· FCC Marine Radio Operator Permit.

Skills & Competencies

· Strong communication skills to interact courteously and effectively with passengers and crew.

· Comprehensive understanding of safety standards for passenger-carrying vessels and proper use of PPE.

· Mechanical aptitude to operate mechanical equipment and assist with maintenance tasks.

· Ability to follow and give clear oral and written instructions.

· Physical stamina to perform labor-intensive tasks and work in various weather conditions.

· Problem-solving skills to address complex issues efficiently and effectively.

Salary and Benefits

Base Rate: $38.36/hour, plus:

· Call Back Pay: Minimum of 4 hours at overtime rate for off-duty callouts.

· Overtime: Time-and-a-half for hours over 11/day or 40/week.

· Pager Pay/Emergency Notification: This role also requires after-hours availability on shift days for emergency readiness. A pager is carried and employees are compensated $39.39/shift for doing so.

· Longevity Bonus: 5% bonus at 10, 15, and 20 years of service.

· Clothing Allowance: $350 annually.

· Safety Bonuses

· Healthcare: Begins first of the month following 3 months of continuous employment

· 401(k): 4% employer contribution and up to 2% match for employee contributions.

· Paid Time Off:

o Vacation: Starts at 40 hours/year, increases with tenure.

o Sick Leave: Accrual of 6 hours/month for full-time employees.

o Holiday Pay: Compensatory time or pay for 8 designated holidays.

· Ferry Access: Island residents earn a ferry ticket for each day worked, up to a max of 22 per month.

· Union Membership & Representation: Regular roles are eligible to join the voluntary Inlandboatmen’s Union of the Pacific.

Working Conditions

· Work Requirements: Ability to begin and end shifts daily from the island side.

· Work Schedule: Work split shifts on a regularly scheduled basis; including nights, weekends, and holidays, based on the ferry schedule. This role also requires availability on shift days for emergency transportation when 911 is involved, requiring carrying a pager to be alerted and called to work as needed.

· Work Environment: Outdoor setting, exposed to varied weather conditions such as cold, damp, heat, and full sun. Work occurs both onboard the ferry and at the dock.

o Hazards: Potential exposure to heavy machinery, confined spaces, and marine environments.

· Physical Demands:

o Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., climb vertical ladders, and lift and handle equipment.

o Must meet and maintain Coast Guard standards for physical health, vision, and hearing.

o Random drug testing required.

How to Apply: Submit your resume to jobs@herronisland.org. Include any relevant licenses, certifications and details of your experience.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

HMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to diversity and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $38.36 per hour

Expected hours: 36 per week

Benefits:

• Health insurance

Schedule:

• Weekends only

Work Location: In person

Salary : $350