Ferry Able Seaman – Relief (24-02-9)

Relief Able-Bodied Seaman – Maine State Ferry Service

Join the Maine State Ferry Service and play a vital role in connecting Maine’s beautiful island communities, including Vinalhaven, North Haven, Swans Island, and Islesboro. Based out of Rockland, this relief position offers a unique lifestyle opportunity with state-provided island housing, free parking, and a non-taxable meal per-diem. You will be part of a dedicated crew ensuring the safe transportation of passengers and cargo across coastal routes. The role comes with an exceptional public-sector benefits package, including 13 paid holidays, 100% employer-paid dental premiums, and a significant 13.29% retirement contribution.

Responsibilities

• Handles mooring lines during docking/undocking operations

• Verifies and collects boarding tickets

• Assists in the loading/unloading of passengers and vehicles

• Cleans/paints interior and exterior vessel structure, gear, and equipment

• Participates in safety drills and operations

• Stands helm and lookout watches in wheelhouse

• Performs security duties IAW the Vessel Security Plan

Requirements

• Valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariners Document (MMD) with AB endorsement

• Current TWIC (Transportation Workers Identification Credential)

• Experience as a deck crew member of vessels operating on ocean or coastal routes

• U.S. Coast Guard certificate as able seaman and lifeboatman

• Physically capable of performing all duties of Ferry Able Seaman

About the Role

As a relief Able-Bodied Seaman, you will maintain the operational integrity and safety of our ferry vessels. Your daily routine involves high-activity tasks such as handling mooring lines, managing vehicle loading/unloading (including transfer bridge operation), and performing essential vessel maintenance through cleaning and painting. You will also serve as a critical component of the bridge team, standing helm and lookout watches, and ensuring compliance with the Vessel Security Plan. This role requires staying on the assigned island during your duty rotation, utilizing well-equipped state housing while working in a dynamic maritime environment.