Dock Attendant - Seasonal

BASIC JOB PURPOSE / SUMMARY:  

The Dock Attendant is responsible for assisting with the day-to-day operations of the marina, ensuring the safe docking of vessels, maintaining the cleanliness of docks, and providing exceptional customer service to boaters and marina visitors. This temporary/seasonal position is ideal for individuals looking to gain experience in marina operations and requires a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Implement the Port’s Promise, Mission, and Vision.  Exhibit the Port’s values, behavioral and leadership expectations including truthfulness, integrity, and teamwork. 
2. Demonstrate workplace safety: follow all safety rules and guidelines, lead by example, and encourage safety practices among colleagues. Assist in maintaining and enforcing the Port’s safety program.
3. Assist boaters with docking procedures, line handling, and provide guidance on safe docking practices.
4. Greet marina visitors and boaters, answering their questions about marina services, slip locations, and local amenities. Provide prompt and courteous service, helping to create a positive marina experience for all guests.
5. Perform routine maintenance tasks around the marina, such as cleaning docks, picking up debris, emptying trash bins, and keeping common areas and restrooms clean and tidy. Report any maintenance issues to the Harbormaster or maintenance team.
6. Inspect slips and dock areas for safety hazards, wear and tear, or needed repairs. Assist with minor repairs as needed and ensure docks are clean, secure, and operational.
7. Maintain effective communications with marina office staff to ensure coordinated assignment of guest moorage. Will be required to carry a radio or phone during work hours. Report any suspicious activity or unauthorized access to marina management.
8. Assist with guest moorage, reservations, tying vessels, and vessel placement on the docks and assist vessels getting underway from docks.
9. Provide concierge service to guests including transporting supplies and equipment to and from customer boats and transporting customers from docks to town of La Conner, when needed, via golf cart.
10. Help set up and break down for marina events. Assist boaters during high-traffic events and help maintain order on the docks.
11. Ensure that all marina safety procedures are followed. Assist in responding to emergencies, such as fuel spills, accidents, or severe weather, by following established emergency procedures, protocols and notifying the Harbormaster.
12. Perform other duties, responsibilities, and special projects as may be required.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

This is a physically demanding, outdoor role in a marina environment. Dock Attendants will spend most of their shifts working on or near the water, exposed to weather conditions such as sun, wind, and rain. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required during peak season or marina events. Work performed outdoors may need to be done in all weather conditions and require walking and/or standing for long periods of time on hard, uneven, surfaces and often in wet and/or muddy environments. While working indoors, typically the noise level in the work environment is moderate.  While working outdoors, the noise level may increase from moderate to high.  Exposure to loud noises, both indoors and outdoors is due to industrial, aviation, marine, maintenance, and repair activities.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This position requires the ability to hear, speak, understand, and clearly communicate the spoken English language, and the ability to read, write, and understand directions in English. Applicants must have the dexterity and manual skills required to operate the keyboard of a computer terminal, a radio communications device, and the ability to read maps, drawings, and other related project materials. This position requires frequent lifting and/or carrying of items up to 50 pounds. Applicants must have the ability to push, pull, lift, lower, and maneuver items from ground to overhead and from side to side. Must have the physical ability to perform all essential functions of the job.                       

WORK PERFORMED

Examples of work performed include assisting boaters in docking by catching and securing their lines, ensuring the vessel is safely moored, and providing information about marina services and amenities. Clean and maintain docks and surrounding areas by picking up debris, sweeping the dock walkways, and ensuring all safety equipment is in place and accessible. Assisting with setting up for marina events by arranging tables, preparing docking areas for high traffic, driving guests and tenants to and from town in a golf cart, and helping guests as they arrive.

TRAINING, EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE & RESPONSE TIME REQUIREMENTS

Formal Education: High School Diploma or equivalent, or actively pursuing.  

Work Experience:  Must be over the age of 18. Prior experience in a marina or boating environment is a plus, but not required. Training will be provided.

Training/Certification/Licenses:

Valid Washington state drivers’ license (must be insurable)

Computer & Other Skills: Strong customer service and communication skills are required. Must possess the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Basic knowledge of boating and watercraft operations preferred. Ability to perform manual labor, including lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods. Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

BENEFITS

·       Paid Sick Time – accrues at 1 hour for every 40 hours worked.

·       Employer provided uniforms

**The Port of Skagit offers an end-of-the-season bonus to seasonal employees who meet the criteria for eligibility.  To be eligible, the seasonal employee must work 12 full weeks within the 2025 summer season (between the months of May to September 2025).  Upon completion of eligibility requirements, seasonal employee may choose either a $1,000 end-of-season bonus paid directly to them, or a $2,500 tuition stipend paid directly to an accredited college, university, or trade school where the seasonal employee is actively enrolled.**

Salary : $19 - $23