Overview
Boat and cable ferry operators and workers in related occupations operate lock gates, bridges and similar equipment along canal systems and operate cable ferries and ferry terminals. This unit group also includes boat operators, and owner-operators, who operate small motorboats or watercraft to transport passengers or freight. They are employed by the federal government, cable ferry companies, ferry terminals, marine companies and canal, port or harbour authorities. Owner-operators of small boats are self-employed.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Lock equipment operators
Operate telecommunication equipment or use portable loudspeakers to direct movements of vessels in lock area
Operate controls to open or close lock gates
Operate controls to raise, lower or turn bridges
Observe progress of vessels passing through locks.
Cable ferry operators
Signal passengers and motor vehicles to embark and disembark
Operate cable ferry across narrow waterway
Perform routine maintenance and repairs to engine, cables and winches.
Ferry terminal workers
Operate controls to adjust landing bridge, position or remove gangplank, open or close doors and gates, and secure or remove docking devices
Signal passengers and motor vehicles to embark and disembark
May collect tickets or fares from passengers.
Boat operators
Operate motorboats, launches, small ferry boats and other similar vessels to transport passengers or freight
Maintain boats and equipment on board, such as engines, winches, derricks, fire extinguishers and life preservers
May perform other duties, such as checking for oil spills or other pollutants around ports and harbours, patrolling beaches and measuring depth of water.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$42,901
$61,734
$79,253
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
298expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Some secondary school education is usually required.
On-the-job training is provided.
Master, Master Limited or Small Vessel Operator Proficiency (SVOP) Certificate, issued by Transport Canada, is required for boat operators.
Additional information
There is little or no mobility among lock equipment operators, cable ferry operators and ferry terminal workers.
Mobility between boat operators in this unit group is possible.
Progression from boat operator positions to deck officer positions is possible with additional training, experience and certification.
Certification requirements
Mandatory: You need the following certification to practice as Boat and cable ferry operators and related occupations in B.C.
- Transport Canada Approved Marine Safety Training
Transport Canada Approved Marine Safety Training
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as a boat operator in B.C., you are required to complete essential marine safety training courses. You must complete a Marine Emergency Duties (MED) training course as well as one of the following: Master, Master Limited or Small Vessel Operator Proficiency (SVOP) Certification. Visit the Transport Canada website to view available approved courses from recognized institutions in B.C.
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
No post-secondary education required
No post-secondary education required. You can work in this career without post-secondary education. Some on the job training may be provided. With additional training or experience, you may be able to progress into higher level, supervisory or management positions.