Ferry Operator

Class Characteristics

Under general supervision, to operate a cable-guided ferry to transport vehicles and passengers; to perform minor maintenance to ferry equipment; and to do other work as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics

The Transportation Maintenance Division within the Department of Transportation and Development maintains the County's roads, bridges, culverts, building and equipment related to road and ferry systems.

The Ferry Operator safely and efficiently operates the County's power-driven, cable-guided, open deck ferry located near the City of Canby. Incumbents direct vehicle drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians on and off the ferry and transport passengers across the Willamette River. The Ferry Operator maintains the ferry, equipment and dock areas in a clean, organized and attractive manner.

Typical Tasks

Duties may include but are not limited to the following:

1. Operates ferry to transport passengers; directs the loading and unloading of passengers; ties up to and casts off from landing dock; pilots ferry across the river; secures ferry on dry dock area when not in operation; protects ferry from damage due to high water; performs safety procedures at beginning and end of shift; follows Standard Operating Procedures. 
2. Collects fares from passengers; validates pass or receives cash payment; issues receipts and makes change; sells ferry passes; records and balances monies. 
3. Provides information to the public on ferry operations; promotes ferry's historical value; posts closed signs in local area when ferry is not operating due to repair or weather conditions; updates 24-hour ferry information recording; surveys customers to determine satisfaction and service changes. 
4. Performs general maintenance, adjustments and minor repairs to ferry equipment; checks and replaces signal and cabin lights; maintains hydraulic ramps and hoses; adjusts docks and guide cable; cleans cabin area, including windows; greases blocks, shaft and gate bearings, and stiffeners; checks and fills hydraulic oil; washes deck area of ferry; cuts grass along entrance/exit roadways.
5. Maintains and completes ferry operations and maintenance records; completes repair and supply requests; orders and gathers supplies; reviews, completes and delivers payroll records; documents preventative maintenance performed; tracks number of passengers per river crossing; measures and records river level; maintains and updates Standard Operating Procedure manual.
6. Conducts regular safety drills as required by the U.S. Coast Guard.
7. May perform general, semi-skilled bridge, traffic, or road maintenance duties when ferry is not in operation.

Required Knowledge and Skills

Working knowledge of: Maintenance and repair of mechanical equipment related to a power-driven ferry; hazards and safety precautions when operating a ferry and other mechanical equipment; navigational regulations regarding ferry operations; inspection methods and procedures; public and customer service techniques; basic math; basic recordkeeping techniques.

Skill to: Operate ferry and transport vehicles and passengers over water following prescribed safety procedures; respond quickly and appropriately in emergencies; complete and maintain accurate records; communicate effective, both orally and in writing; operate and perform limited maintenance and repair on powered equipment; accurately count, record and balance monies; establish and maintain effective working relationships with County employees and the public.

Working Conditions

Duties require walking, standing, squatting, kneeling, bending, twisting, balancing, reaching, fine motor control, digging, raking, passing through narrow hatch opening, and the ability to lift and carry objects, and pull 90 pounds. Duties also involve frequent exposure to exhaust fumes and dust, loud noises, hot, slippery and/or uneven surfaces, poor visibility, and adverse weather conditions.

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum qualifications are used as a guide for establishing the minimum experience, education, licensure, and/or certifications required for employment in the classification. The following minimum qualifications are established for this classification. Additional minimum qualifications and special conditions may apply to a specific position within this classification and will be stated on the job announcement.

Experience: A minimum of two (2) years of related experience that would provide the required knowledge and skills to perform the responsibilities of this position.

Licenses/Certifications:
The following licensure/certifications are required at the time of hire.

• United States Coast Guard Cable Ferry Operator License or license of greater capability.
• Certification in First Aid/CPR.

Pre-Employment Requirements

Must pass a pre-employment drug test, and be subject to random drug tests (US Coast Guard regulations).

Employment is contingent upon passing a post-offer physical assessment. Accommodation requests will be reviewed on an individual basis in compliance with State and Federal legislation.

Driving is required for County business on a regular basis or to accomplish work. Incumbents must possess a valid driver's license, and possess and maintain an acceptable driving record throughout the course of employment.

Classification No. 447
Revised: 5/77, 7/94, 6/18
FLSA: Non-Exempt
EEO: 7