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.