RIVER FERRY CREWMEMBER SPECIALIST SENIOR 56065

1/1/91 G

 

CLASS CONCEPT/FUNCTION

This is the third class in the River Ferry Crewmember series for positions that perform duties in the operation and maintenance of a river ferry vessel. Positions in this class serve as either second in command for deck operations or second in command in the engine room. This class is distinguished from the River Ferry Crewmember Specialist class by its responsibility to be in charge of deck operations and the potential for handling the vessel while underway or its lead responsibility as second in command over below deck crew. The class is distinguished from the River Ferry Chief Engineer by that class's full overall responsibility for maintenance and operation of the engine room, and it is distinguished from the River Ferry Captain by that class's total responsibility for vessel operation, passengers and crew while the vessel is underway.

 

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE WORK

Complexity of Work: Performs work of moderate difficulty either in the overall performance of deck and pilot house duties or as second in command of the engine room. In above deck settings positions in this class function as a Mate. In below deck settings, positions function as an Assistant Engineer.

As a Mate, duties include oversight responsibility for all vehicle loading and unloading activities. Directs crewmembers in routine matters of vessel operation such as vehicle and passenger safety; assumes coordination of all emergencies including passenger safety, first aid, CPR, fire and abandonment; provides training to crewmembers in safety and lifeboat drills; pilots vessel between terminals as required; operates navigational equipment, radar and other such as on board equipment. Counts and records vehicles carried on each trip; compiles totals for inclusion in weekly reports; conducts periodic inspection of the vessel for safety violations, cleanliness and sanitation; takes necessary action through crewmember or others to assure corrective action is taken for discrepancies found during inspections. Provides instructions and general travel directions to passengers. Patrols deck to assure the safety and orderly conduct of passengers.

As an Assistant Engineer, positions perform duties requiring a thorough understanding of the engineering plant and all auxiliary systems. Work requires constant attention to all engine room plant systems. Monitors and repairs main propulsion system; monitors and corrects generators and electrical distribution systems; provides training for Oilers and unlicensed engine room personnel; monitors and maintains steering gear system, fuel and water systems, and the bilge system; collects and maintains necessary data for records; greases, oils, and changes filters and performs other maintenance work as required.

Supervision Given: As a Mate, positions provide immediate supervision to Crewmembers and Crewmember Specialists in carrying out instructions from the Captain and operations of deck activities such as loading and unloading vehicles. As an Assistant Engineer, positions serve in a lead capacity by assigning work and providing information for the evaluation of the performance of Crewmembers and Crewmember Specialists (Oilers).

Supervision Received: Receives general supervision from the River Ferry Captain or River Ferry Chief Engineer while the vessel is underway or other administrative positions when not underway.

Scope: The work influences the performance of either above or below deck maintenance and operations activities by subordinate crewmembers of a state inland waterway passenger ferry.

Impact of Actions: Decisions affect safety of the passengers, crewmembers, and general operations and safety of vessel and also impact cleanliness, sanitation, and public relations.

Personal Contacts: Frequent internal contact with vessel crewmembers and other ferry system personnel. Frequent external contact with the traveling public to give directions, instructions, and to answer questions.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Knowledge: Working knowledge of deck and pilot house operations; vessels including navigation, operation and movement; or engine room and equipment operation depending upon specialty area.

Skills: Working skill in operating steering gear for vessel and other equipment, such as navigation and radar; or in the use of hand and power tools in the repair and maintenance of engine room equipment, depending upon specialty area.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to train and supervise crewmembers; operate firefighting and lifeboat launching equipment; respond to emergency situation;perform heavy manual labor; and to prepare written reports.

 

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: Must be able to pass physical examination and color vision sense test as prescribed by the U.S. Coast Guard. Must pass periodic drug test.

Education or Training: Graduation from high school or equivalent and related training.

Level and Type of Experience: Considerable experience, either above deck or below deck, in service on board vessel when underway.

CLASS HISTORY

This class was established as a result of an organizational study conducted by the Virginia Department of Transportation. Some positions in this class were previously classified as River Ferry Mate. This class is effective January 1991.