Ferry Operator (Purser/Deckhand/Operator) (Englishtown and Little Narrows) (4 Positions)
Competition # : 46023
Department: Public Works
Location: ENGLISHTOWN AND LITTLE NARROWS
Zone: 2
Type of Employment: Spare Classification
Union Status: CUPE - NSPG
Closing Date: 23-May-25 (Applications are accepted until 11:59 PM Atlantic Time)
Under Article 13 of the Collective Agreement between the Nova Scotia Department of Public Works and the Canadian Union of Public Employees, Local 1867, the following opportunity is being posted.
Please quote the competition number and the Zone you are applying for as noted above on your application.
About Us
Maintaining our provincial infrastructure is no small job.
The Marine Services division of the Department of Public Works maintains and operates the provincial ferries including: Englishtown, Little Narrows, Country Harbor, LaHave River, Tancook Island, and Digby Neck. Our Marine staff help to further connect and expand Nova Scotia’s transportation network; all the while ensuring the safe and efficient operation of our Ferries. Our provincial ferries operate 24 hours a day, 365 days per year.
If you’re looking for an exciting and challenging career, with a daily view of our beautiful Atlantic waters, then we have your perfect opportunity.
About Our Opportunity
As the Ferry Operator, you represent the Department in a professional and courteous manner while playing a critical role in the operation and safety of the Ferry.
Primary Accountabilities
Daily responsibilities include:
- loading, unloading and arranging vehicles;
- assisting the marine engineer in regular maintenance and inspection of the ferry (including engines, hydraulic systems, cables, wind drums, cable rollers, ramp block, wire falls, hinge pins, and fire and lifesaving equipment); and
- keeping the ferry clean and tidy (including snow removal and salting loading pads).
This is an excellent opportunity to network and explore the many different career opportunities our Marine Services has to offer. At Marine Services, we provide you with opportunities for professional development and in-house training related to cable inspections, engines, muster lists, fire drills, and more.
Qualifications and Experience
Grade 10 completion plus six (6) months of previous experience. Previous deckhand or seafaring experience as well as an equivalent combination of education, training and experience will be considered. Any marine ticket would be considered an asset.
You must have your:
- Marine Emergency Duty certificate (MED) or Domestic Vessel Safety (formerly MED A1/A2);
- Seafarer’s Marine Medical Certificate; and
- a Marine First Aid Certificate.
As the ideal candidate you are:
- knowledgeable in ferry operations;
- attentive to details and aware of your surroundings (weather conditions);
- able to work with a minimum of supervision;
- organized and are known for your efficient coordination of work;
- customer service focused; and
- able to communicate professionally both verbally and in writing.
We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.
Equivalency
An equivalent combination of relevant training and experience will be considered. Related equivalencies include, but are not limited to:
- Two (2) years of related experience.
Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.
Working Conditions
May be occasioned by diesel fumes from equipment, noise and dust. Outside work is required in varying weather conditions. Shift work is required, including nights and weekends.
Additional Information
There are four (4) opportunities available for Englishtown/Little Narrows in Zone 2 (Little Narrows).
These positions have no guarantee of hours – successful candidates will be called on a when and as required basis filling in during periods of vacation and sick leave.
What We Offer
- Career development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career
- Engaging workplace: our employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in, we have forward-thinking policies and strategies
- Countless career paths
- Department specific flexible working schedules
Pay Grade: FERRY OP
Salary Range: $22.74 Bi-Weekly
Employment Equity Statement:
Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve. The Government of Nova Scotia has an Employment Equity Policy, and we welcome applications from Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented. If you are a member of one of these equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify on your electronic application.
This is a bargaining unit position initially restricted to current CUPE local 1867 employees with a date of seniority. The successful candidate(s) will be expected to perform duties as necessary within their zone. Failure to apply correctly means that your application will not be given first consideration as a bargaining unit applicant, and will only be included if external applications are pursued. PLEASE NOTE: Candidates will not be considered for an interview if applications are incomplete or are missing information.
Current employees may apply to this position through the following link:
Offer of employment is conditional upon the completion of all applicable background checks and confirmation of credentials, the results of which must be satisfactory to the employer. We thank all applicants for the interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. All questions and concerns may be directed to Competitions@novascotia.ca.
