Buffalo Bayou Partnership seeks Pontoon Boat Tour Captain
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Reports To: Venue and Visitor Services Supervisor
Classification: Contract
Pay Rate: $35/hour
Departure Location: Buffalo Bayou Partnership, 723 N Drennan St, Houston TX 77003
Buffalo Bayou Partnership
Established in 1986, Buffalo Bayou Partnership (BBP) creates and stewards welcoming parks, trails, and unique spaces, connecting Houstonians with the city’s most significant natural waterway. The non-profit organization’s geographic focus is the 10-mile stretch of the bayou that flows from Shepherd Drive, through the heart of downtown, into the East End, and on to the Port of Houston Turning Basin. BBP spearheads award-winning projects such as Buffalo Bayou Park; constructs hike and bike trails; removes trash from the waterway; and engages tens of thousands of visitors each
year through programming, public art, volunteer events, and recreational opportunities.
Position Summary
BBP is seeking an experienced Boat Captain to lead tours and crew in the safe and efficient
operation of the BBP pontoon boat. The Boat Captain will be responsible for overseeing all aspects
of the vessel’s operations, including navigation, safety, cleanliness of the boat, and crew
management. The ideal candidate will have a passion for boating and customer service as well as
strong leadership skills, experience in marine transportation, and knowledge of and adherence to
Coast Guard compliance. The Boat Captain plays a crucial role in creating a positive and safe
experience for passengers, requiring efficient communication, attention to detail, and a proactive
approach to fulfilling responsibilities.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Monitor weather and water conditions and communicate with BBP staff prior to tours
- Conduct deckhand training as assigned
- Operate and navigate the vessel safely and efficiently
- Maintain a high level of safety for passengers and crew at all times
- Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations
- Maintain logs and other records as required by law
- Report maintenance deficiencies
- Available for flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate BBP’s boat
tour schedule - Ensure the boat is clean and ready for tours
- Use personal phone to communicate passenger headcount to the main office and ensure
accurate record-keeping - Must participate in required training
- Must submit invoices in a timely manner
Qualifications
- Hold a current Master Merchant Mariners license
- Able to operate vessel controls and equipment
- Able to stand, walk, and climb for extended perios
- Able to handle a 60lb gangplank
- Able to provide excellence customer service
- Able to represent BBP with a high level of integrity and professionalism and adhere to BBP’s
policies - Able to correspond via email
- Able to communicate effectively with individuals of varying ages as well as social and cultural
backgrounds - Dependable, flexible, and adaptable in a dynamic, changing environment
- Available to work weekends, evening hours, and holidays if necessary
- Spanish language skills a plus
- Salary and Benefits
Buffalo Bayou Partnership offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits.
BBP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. - To Apply:
Please submit resume and cover letter to
aduran@buffalobayou.org
Subject line: Boat Captain
No phone calls please.