Boat and Cable Ferry Operators and Related Workers

Nature of work

Lock and cable ferry operators use lock gates, bridges and similar equipment along canal systems and workers who operate cable ferries and ferry terminals. This group also includes boat operators, and owner-operators, who operate small motorboats or watercraft to carry passengers or freight. Workers in this group work for the federal government, cable ferry companies, ferry terminals, marine companies and canal, port, or harbour authorities. Owner-operators of small boats are self-employed.

Job duties

Lock equipment operators:

• Use telecommunication equipment or use portable loudspeakers to direct movements of vessels in lock area.
• Use controls to open or close lock gates.
• Use controls to raise, lower or turn bridges.
• Watch progress of vessels passing through locks.

Cable ferry operators:

• Signal passengers and motor vehicles to embark and disembark.
• Use cable ferry across narrow waterway.
• Complete routine maintenance and repairs on engine, cables and winches.

Ferry terminal workers:

• Use controls to adjust landing bridge, position or remove gangplank, open or close doors and gates, and secure or remove docking devices.
• Signal passengers and motor vehicles to embark and disembark.
• May collect tickets or fares from passengers.

Boat operators:

• Use motorboats, launches, small ferry boats and other similar vessels to transport passengers or freight.
• Maintain boats and equipment on board like engines, winches, derricks, fire extinguishers and life preservers.
• May complete other duties like checking for oil spills or other pollutants around ports and harbours, patrolling beaches and measuring depth of water.

Sample job titles

• charter boat operator
• ferry operator
• ferry terminal attendant
• lighthouse keeper
• sightseeing boat operator
• small craft operator

Skills

You should have good health, physical stamina, and strength. Agility, coordination, and a mechanical aptitude would be helpful. You must be able to work methodically, take direction, work as a member of a team, and carry out instructions given by supervisors. On occasion, protective clothing, goggles, and safety boots must be worn. In these jobs, you may be exposed to noise and fumes.

Job requirements

• Some high school education is usually required.
• On-the-job training is provided.
• Master of a Small Craft or Master of a Small Passenger Craft certificate, issued by Transport Canada, is required for boat operators.

Other considerations

There is little or no mobility among lock equipment operators, cable ferry operators and ferry terminal workers. Mobility between boat operators in this group is possible. Progression from boat operator positions to deck officer positions is possible with additional training, experience and certification.

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Contacts

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