FERRY OPERATOR 

NATURE OF WORK

This is work involved in operating a ferry for a parish government under the supervision of the Roads Supervisor, Eq. Operator III, and/or Director of Public Works.

Work involves responsibility for the safe operation and maintenance of a small ferry guided and controlled by means of a cable stretched across the stream and powered by a gasoline engine which winds in the cable to move the ferry.  This is work of routine difficulty and is performed under general supervision.  Errors in the work could become serious and result in accidents.  Generally, no direct supervision is exercised over other Parish employees.  The work environment involves moderate risks as incumbent works around moving parts.  The work requires some physical exertion such as long periods of standing. Incumbent is subject to periodic supervisory checks.

REQUIREMENTS OF WORK

Any equivalent combination of the following training and experience which would provide the following abilities:

§  Ability to learn about the entire operation and maintenance activities related to running a ferry within a reasonable training period; to deal effectively and tactfully with the general public; to learn the related occupational hazards and applicable safety precautions.

§  Must possess a license from the U. S. Coast Guard of at least an OUPV (Operator of an unlicensed passenger vessel)

EXAMPLES OF WORK

(NOTE: The examples listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed in positions allocated to this classification.  The absence of specific statements of duties does not exclude those tasks in which the work is similarly related, or a logical assignment of the position.)

Operates motor-powered ferry barges guided and controlled by a cable stretched across the stream; directs the entrance and exit of passengers and vehicles on and off the ferry; may perform work for long hours on an assigned shift.

Raises and lowers approach aprons to meet the level of the ferry deck during various stages of water; watches for approaching vessels and lowers ferry cable into the stream to permit passage of vessels.

Performs routine maintenance on ferry, cable, motor and aprons, such as sweeping, washing, oiling, greasing and minor repairing and reports necessity for major repairs to supervisor; may assist in repairing cable.

Keeps simple records concerning ferry operations and passing vessels.

From time to time, as a result of existing conditions, work load considerations, manpower demands, and/or deadlines, work assignments may be modified by supervisory personnel to the extent that the incumbent may be directed to perform a task which, while not within the specific description of his/her position, will be within the limitations of his/her experience and/or training.  At no time during such assignment modifications will the compensation rate for the incumbent be reduced.