Ferry Controller

Ferry Controller | Torpoint, Cornwall | Full Time| £36,526 per annum, progressing to £39,059 per annum

Our client is responsible for the management, operation, maintenance and administration of the two crossings over the River Tamar – Tamar Bridge and Torpoint Ferry. With approx. 26,000 vehicles travelling with them every day, they play an important part in the local infrastructure, creating a link between Plymouth, Devon and South East Cornwall.

The ideal candidate will have experience of working within the marine environment and with marine engineering, experience of managing staff, be adaptable, quick thinking and operate well under pressure.

This role requires a strong understanding of health and safety and excellent customer service skills. Controllers must lead by example, providing people management, passenger safety management and routine supervision of the passenger vessel. This includes a significant contribution to the safe, reliable and efficient delivery of the ferry service.

Are you the right person for the job?

• Good level of general education i.e. GCSE Maths. English
• Excellent communications skills
• Supportive change management
• Ability to respond positively to changing operational demands
• Ability to develop and maintain a good working relationship amongst colleagues
• Pro-active and assertive
• A minimum of two years' experience (FTE) working in a customer service environment and a good understanding of how to deliver excellent customer service
• Experience in inspecting work sites against set standards e.g. cleaning or Health and Safety standards
• Significant experience in managing staff performance, setting improvement objectives, delivery of appraisals
• Ability to make independent decisions, motivate staff in challenging circumstances and give clear instructions to employees when unexpected events occur
• Working with staff rotas
• A high level of accurate and objective reporting, with complimentary writing ability, including a strong competency in using MS Office software including Word, Excel and MS databases (or equivalents)
• Practical experience in applying internal policies and working as part of a team

What will your role look like?

• To start up, moor, shut down and secure ferries in accordance with laid down procedures.
• To control the ferry across the river in accordance with internal and external policies, procedures and safety considerations. Work with the Ferry Supervisor to maintain the published timetable, but use judgement to facilitate emergency services or unusual traffic demands.
• Maintain monitored communications with Ferry Supervisors, Port Authority, other vessels and ferry crews with UHF/VHF radios. Monitor and use the onboard CCTV systems.
• Safely land assigned ferry on slipways to facilitate safe embarkation/disembarkation of traffic and foot passengers.
• Communicate and interface with the travelling public when required ensuring ferry bylaws and regulations are followed.
• To direct crew and passengers in the event of a breakdown or emergency. To assist with emergency situations as detailed in Tamar Crossings policies and procedures - these duties include using and working with ropes, lifebuoys, buoyancy aids, manual valves, hoses, fire extinguishers and related equipment. This includes requirements to carry equipment and transit escape ladders and hatches.
• To take charge and direct the embarked crew as required, overseeing all aspects of the ferry operation. Act as the first level supervisor for the crew in accordance with company policies and operating procedures, including discipline, performance management and appraisals.
• At night, when no Ferry Supervisor is on duty, liaise with emergency services, ferry management and ferry technical support staff as appropriate.

What can you expect in return?

• Regular pay award for all employees negotiated by the National Joint Council (NJC)
• Local Government Pension Scheme – employer and employee contributions - currently 20% employer contribution
• A minimum of 25 days annual leave (or hours equivalent), pro-rata to contract, plus public/bank holidays
• Staff travel card for free crossings of the Tamar Bridge and the Torpoint Ferry
• 24/7 access to Employee Assistance Programme for you and your family
• Access to a Bike2work scheme
• Family friendly policies including shared parental leave, contractual maternity, paternity and adoption
• Uniform and PPE provided – washing and drying facilities available for use on-site
• Learning and Development Opportunities

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