Zodiac Captain

Under the direction of the Chief Mate, the Zodiac Captain/Deckhand executes duties to ensure the safe operation and maintenance of the vessel.  Stand watches for navigation purposes with the Bridge Watch Officer and operate small inflatable tenders and DIBs as directed by the Chief Mate for transportation of guests on scenic rides and transportation to and from shore.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Work according to the core Values of True Alaskan Hospitality as defined in our Mission Statement: Immerse each guest in personable and unsurpassed level of service we call True Alaskan Hospitality.

• Under the direction of the Chief Mate, handle mooring lines during docking and un-docking procedures, handle anchor winches during anchor procedures, setting, taking and securing the gangway and ensure its safety for guest and crew use and assist them while using the gangway.
• Perform watch duties while underway, anchored or in-port as assigned by the Chief Mate.
• Holds a position on the ship’s Emergency Station Bill.  Must meet requirements of Emergency Station Bill for both drills and actual emergencies to include fire, flooding, man overboard, abandon ship, medical, and spill response.  
• Perform a variety of tasks as assigned by the Chief Mate.  These may include janitorial duties, upkeep and maintenance of the vessel as well as guest services.
• Perform engineering and security rounds as directed by Chief Mate and Chief Engineer.
• While on watch on the bridge, assist officer on watch as directed.  Specific duties such as steering, chart work, lookout, and use of bridge electronics will vary with the areas of operation and with the officer of the watch.  When on duty on the bridge, those duties shall take precedence over all else and will require the utmost vigilance. 
• While in port, perform duties such as but not limited to assist in baggage handling, laundry loading and unloading, taking on potable water, taking off garbage, cleaning windows and vessel wash down. 
• On turnaround day, responsible for taking on ship’s stores and assisting with baggage movements and cleaning all exterior areas that cannot be completed while underway.
• Interacting with guests in a friendly and courteous manner always. Provide friendly and professional service while assisting guests on and off the vessel at the gangway, while escorting guests to their stateroom, while working on stateroom maintenance projects, while performing safety rounds, and while the bridge is open to the guests.
• Enhance guest experience by actively searching for wildlife and bringing sightings to the attention of the officer on watch and the Naturalist.
• Safe operation of zodiacs and DIB’s, with or without guests, and their daily upkeep while working in conjunction with the vessel engineer.
• Follows prescribed hours set forth by the vessel’s daily roster.
• Maintain awareness of basic safety rules, workplace safety and respect for the environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Licensing of 25 GT/ Inland
• 1-3 years in the maritime industry with progressively responsible experience.
• Strong communication skills: verbal, non-verbal and written.
• Writing skills capable of completing forms and making log entries  
• Strong interpersonal skills and guest service aptitude
• Must pass a security background check and DOT drug test.

Desired Qualifications

• Proven team player and have a Can-Do attitude.
• Organized, even tempered.
• Ability to take directions and work with a diverse team.
• Ability to interpret and follow rules, policy and procedures.
• Ability to maintain composure with courteous and professional demeanor.
• First Aid and CPR Certification.

Traits and Characteristics

• Strong commitment to safety.
• A genuine desire to serve the public.
• Positive, personable and professional demeanor.
• Adaptive to learning new skills and knowledge.
• Adaptive to changes in a progressive work environment.
• Strong record of being organized, dependable and punctual.
• Strong conflict resolution skills and ability to work within a diverse workforce.

Communication 

It is strongly recommended that applicants have access to a computer and a mobile phone during the entire hiring process.  We expect to hear from candidates within a few days of our communication (request for interview, documentation, follow up, etc.) Recruitment process cannot continue if the candidate is not responsive.  Please note that how you communicate with a potential employer is part of the evaluation process.  Always be polite, prompt and professional when communicating with the office.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Crew stays in shared quarters onboard with little privacy and relatively constant vibration and engine noise often for long periods of time.  This is a fast-paced and dynamic work environment with a diverse workforce. Crew may be moved from one vessel to another at the discretion of Management. Due to remote locations of vessel routes, internet connectivity is limited.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Travel to the vessels in Alaska and extended stay up to 5 months on board is required.  Must be physically able to work a typical workday of about 10-14 hours per day, seven days a week.  Environmental conditions generally include ambient inside temperature, ambient inside lighting, ambient to loud noise levels, all weather conditions, occasional use of required protective clothing including raingear and life preserver. Occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.  Ability to walk on uneven deck surfaces crossing from vessel to vessel.  Physically able to climb a 7-foot vertical ladder and fit through a 28-inch escape hatch.