Vessel Captain (PT)

ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND

The Maritime Aquarium’s mission is to ignite a connection to Long Island Sound and the ocean to enrich the lives of all people and inspire action to protect our blue planet. For 37 years, the Aquarium has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Norwalk and the region. The second largest family attraction in Connecticut, and 50 miles from New York City, the Aquarium hosts nearly 450,000 guests annually. Its primary exhibits take guests on a voyage from the shallow salt marshes and estuaries to the depths of the Long Island Sound and the ocean beyond, culminating with habitats for sharks and harbor seals.

Altogether, the Aquarium is home to more than 8,000 animals and 285 species in 75 exhibits. A new 4D Theater offers a unique sensory film experience for guests. Its education programs introduce nearly 50,000 students, campers and scouts to marine and STEM education. The Aquarium is recognized as a top aquarium in the nation and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It is an active participant in the local and regional community. The strength of the Aquarium is its 85 full-time staff, and part-time and seasonal staff, in addition to our volunteers.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The part-time Vessel Captain assists the Director for Vessel Operations and Programming in the safe and timely operation of The Maritime Aquarium’s (TMA) vessels. The position will serve as Master on the R/V Sound Explorer, a 46-foot Chesapeake Deadrise and inspected passenger vessel. Our Captains provide support to staff and passengers during onboard educational programs for schools, the public and other private charter groups. Trips include harbor and sunset cruises and Marine Life Encounter cruises (MLEC). Operations include deploying and retrieving an otter trawl and dredge. Schedule will include Sunday’s and one float day, 7 – 14 hours per week.

The hourly rate for this role is $38.00.

MINIMUM POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION:

US Coast Guard MMC Master (50GRT or above)

Red Cross Certifications in First Aid, CPR & AED (or ability to obtain promptly)

• Knowledge of and experience maintaining mechanical and electrical systems found in a maritime environment. Able to adapt to new technologies.
• Ability to lift/carry in excess of 60 lbs. of vessel gear, haul fishing and research gear, and other physical activities required to operate marine vessels.
• Ability to stand for long periods; enter small spaces; ascend and descend ladders/steps; perform mechanical functions while crouching, crawling, bending, etc.
• Ability to handle emergencies by reacting quickly and professionally.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team on vessel maintenance and vessel improvement projects.
• Firm knowledge of USCG Rules of the Road and other USCG regulations.
• Excellent interpersonal skills necessary for interacting successfully with the public, all levels of Aquarium staff and volunteers.
• Understanding of safety requirements aboard a vessel carrying passengers and conducting research activities with gear in the water.
• Ability to participate in USCG (United States Coast Guard) mandatory chemical testing as required by regulations.
• Ability to work weekends and occasional evenings.
• At least 3 years of experience working in maritime operations

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Safely operates the Aquarium’s vessels which include: a 46-foot Chesapeake Deadrise, and a 14-foot rigid hull inflatable boat.
• Safely navigate TMA vessels on inland waterways in accordance with current federal and state regulations.
• Ensures proper handling of mooring lines while vessels are docking and leaving dock.
• Ensures the safe and correct deployment and retrieval of sampling gear.
• Effectively communicates with educators (vessel crew), the Senior Captain, and other staff in a professional manner and in accordance with TMA mission. Provides supervision of vessel crew as needed.
• Supports delivery of the Aquarium’s shipboard education programs when required (e.g. retrieval of samples, interacting with passengers).
• Works independently an as part of a team on vessel maintenance and vessel improvement projects.
• Reports and documents all non-routine operations such as catching debris in nets, incidents with passengers, mechanical/electrical issues, other vessels in harbor, and weather incidents.
• Ensures that crew has secured lines, shore power and security locks, and completes daily ships logs.
• Help ensure crew compliance with relevant USCG and TMA regulations and operational guidelines.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.