Backup Boat Captain (Resource Employee)

The USC Wrigley Institute for Environment and Sustainability is seeking backup Boat Captains to provide safe marine transportation services to faculty, staff, administrators, students, visitors, and guests traveling to and from their Wrigley Marine Science Center on Catalina Island aboard the cross-channel vessel, Miss Christi. Vessel captain may also assist the Marine Operations Manager with maintaining the vessel fleet, ensuring all USCG required safety equipment and communication systems are present and in proper working order, and assisting with general waterfront operations.

This position will help create a backup pool of vessel captains that we can call at a moment’s notice to ensure we can operate our boat when our full-time staff captains are unavailable, on paid time off, or busy with other tasks in their assigned role and cannot perform boat crew duties. This is a part time (as-needed) position and is not eligible for USC benefits.

Additionally, the position has flexible work schedules and hours which may include overtime hours, weekends shifts and/or possible overnight stays on Catalina Island*. When overnight stays are required, housing and meals will be provided by the Wrigley Institute.

* Preference will be given to those available to work weekends, particularly those who are open to staying the night on Catalina Island when required

Primary responsibilities include:

  • Oversees and assists in loading and unloading of passengers, passengers’ gear, cargo and supplies. Confirms passengers and cargo align with the ship’s manifest.
  • Delivers pre-trip safety briefing and ensures safe departure of passengers at the end of voyage.
  • Commands the vessel in a safe and prudent manner while transiting between the Port of Los Angeles and Big Fishermen’s Cove, Catalina Island.
  • As a relief ship’s captain of a USCG certified passenger-carrying vessel, captain will provide guidance and direction to the deckhand and passengers, as needed. Has responsibility and accountability for safe operation of the craft and safety of all passengers.
  • Ensures appropriate watchkeeping and oversight of onboard activities during transit.
  • Assists researchers with equipment during onboard projects, oceanic sampling, etc., as needed.

Requirements:

  • Must be a minimum of 18 years of age.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid United States Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Master’s License (USCGM) with at least a 50-ton rating for near coastal waters.
  • Must have a minimum of 2 years of experience on vessels of similar size in the open ocean. Of the 2 years, at least 30 days need to have been completed in the past year.
  • Must complete a vessel checkout and orientation with the Marine Operations Manager
  • Must have a current CPR/AED/First Aid/Emergency Oxygen Administration certification from an internationally recognized organization.
  • Must commit to 6 shifts per year.
  • Minimum 1-year commitment

To Apply:

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and positions are filled as needed.

Rate of pay: $29/hour

Apply Here