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Careers

WHY WORK FOR VICTORIA HARBOUR FERRY?

It takes an entire crew of happy people to run our happy boats. From retired naval officers, police officers, and lawyers to professional golfers, restaurateurs, sailing instructors, and florists, you’ll work alongside some of the most interesting and amazing people you will ever meet.

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SCENERY

We’re talking non-stop oceanfront views. Forget the corner office— nothing beats our floating boardrooms where you’ve always got dibs on the window seat.

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GROWTH

Founded in 1990 with just two ferry boats, we have since expanded to a team of over 50 seasonal and full-time crew members and have carried more than four million passengers.

JOB OPENINGS

Victoria Harbour Ferry Captain

THIS POSITION IS SEASONAL and PART TIME (approximately 25 hrs/week)

A Harbour Ferry Captain provides narrated tours and water taxi service to Victoria Harbour Ferry passengers on board our 12 passenger vessels. The role is based on our commitment to safety, passenger service and attention to detail and supported by our motto – “Happy People in Happy Boats.”  In addition to providing a high standard of safe vessel operations in a busy Victoria Harbour environment, captains must have excellent interpersonal communication while providing a pleasant and welcoming attitude to all passengers and engage in providing those passengers with informative narrated tours.

Application/Interview/Hiring/Training Process for 2024

Qualifications

  • Certifications required: (Can be obtained through Heads Up Navigation in Sidney or Western Canada Marine Training Institute in Ladysmith)
    • SVOP (Small Vessel Operator Proficiency Course)
    • Basic Marine First Aid
    • Small Non-Pleasure Domestic Vessel Basic Safety (SDV-BS)
    • ROC-M (VHF) Radio License Certificate
  • A medical letter attesting that you have no physical limitations (hearing, eyesight, cardio or respiratory) and no physical impairments (eg. cannot bend at the knees etc.) that would prevent the safe execution of all duties. 

Application – December to February

  • Submit a resume and cover letter to the RALMAX CAREERS site (CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW). 
    • In your cover letter indicate which of the above certifications you currently have 

or 

    • provide the dates of enrolment and expected completion of the required certification courses.
    • In your cover letter describe how your experiences and your personal skills relate to and make you a good candidate for this position. 

Interview – March 

  • Qualified candidates will be selected for an interview.
  • As a result of the interview, selected candidates will be offered to progress to an on-the-water pre-training assessment.

Pre-Training Assessment – April

  • Candidates will be given an on-the-water assessment (sea trial) of their abilities in boat handling, harbour knowledge, navigation skills, situational awareness, and narration abilities. 

Training – April 22 – May 19 (approx.)  

  • Selected candidates will be offered a (paid) position for training. 
  • Training is a minimum of 4 weeks including time in the classroom and on the water. 
  • Successful candidates will be offered a position as captain for a 3-month probationary period. 

Victoria Harbour Ferry Dock Staff

THIS POSITION IS SEASONAL and PART TIME (approximately 25 hrs/week)

If you enjoy working outdoors and creating memorable experiences for locals and tourists, we are excited to hear from you. As a member of the Victoria Harbour Ferry dock team, your primary job is to sell tickets to passengers wishing to use the water taxi service or to take a tour. Efficiency and a happy demeanor are key succeeding in this busy environment. Often the first point of contact for the company, you embody and uphold the company motto of “Happy People in Happy Boats.” 

Job Responsibilities and Expectations

  • To sell water taxi and tour tickets and to coordinate the flow of passengers from one of two main docks
    • Capable of working in a very busy environment 
    • Ability to work harmoniously with customers, Captains and fellow team members
    • Must be able to stand for extended periods
    • Comfortable working outside in a variety of weather conditions
    • Reliability, flexibility and punctuality are expected 
    • Must be available for a variety of 6-7 hour shifts in between 9:00 am to 9:30 pm, 7 days a week and on all Statutory holidays
    • Vacation time is not permitted in the months of May, June, July and August
    • The season runs from March to October with potential for additional special events in the off-season

Qualifications 

  • High school graduation or equivalent
  • Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills
  • Sales or customer service experience is an asset
  • Certification required before or shortly after hiring: 

ROC-M (VHF) Radio License Certificate

Application 

Interview 

  • Qualified candidates will be selected for an interview
  • Successful candidates will be hired on a 3-month probationary period

What We Offer

  • A starting wage of $21 per hour
  • A fun, dynamic working environment 
  • Partial company uniform is provided

We are looking forward to connecting with you.    


Victoria Harbour Ferry Dispatch Agent

Position Overview
As a Dispatch Agent with Victoria Harbour Ferry, you will be the communication hub for our team, ensuring smooth coordination between passengers, Captains, and Dock Staff. Your role involves providing exceptional customer service, supporting operations, and maintaining safety standards while fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.

Key Responsibilities

Customer Care and Public Liaison:

  • Serve as the first point of contact for passengers, providing information about services, fares, and bookings.
  • Answer phone and dispatch system inquiries with clarity and professionalism.
  • Stay informed about VHFC offerings, including routes, charter options, and seasonal passes, to guide customers effectively.

Operational Coordination:

  • Operate and monitor dispatch software, GPS systems, and communication tools to assign vessels for passenger pickups.
  • Collaborate with Captains and Dock CSR via VHF Radio to ensure timely service.
  • Maintain accurate records of passenger data for tours and taxi services.

Team Support and Safety:

  • Work closely with Captains, administrative staff, and sales teams to ensure a seamless operation.
  • Report incidents or safety concerns to the Watch Leader promptly.
  • Maintain the Captain’s Cabin in a clean and organized condition, ensuring supplies and equipment are operational.

Core Competencies:

  • Attention to Detail: Ensure accurate communication and data recording.
  • Dependability: Demonstrate reliability and teamwork.
  • Stress Tolerance: Handle a fast-paced environment with confidence and composure.
  • Positive Attitude: Build strong relationships and maintain a cooperative demeanor.
  • Communication Skills: Use email and intranet tools to stay informed and engaged.

Compensation and Schedule:

  • Hours: Rotating 4-day shifts (9:00 AM – 3:00 PM and 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM), including weekends.
  • Pay: Holiday pay included in regular pay periods; no additional overtime allowance except for statutory holidays.
  • Peak Season: Limited time off availability during June, July, and August.

Why Join Victoria Harbour Ferry?

  • Be a part of an iconic Victoria experience.
  • Collaborate with a dedicated and enthusiastic team.
  • Enhance your customer service and operational skills in a unique maritime setting.

If you are detail-oriented, thrive under pressure, and are passionate about delivering excellent customer experiences, we’d love to hear from you!


(250) 708-0201

Jeanne Socrates Dock, Victoria Inner Harbour, BC V8W 1T3, CA