Deputy Harbor Master

Job Title: Deputy Harbor Master
Department: Parks, Recreation & Facilities
Location: Ellsworth Harbor
Reports To: Harbor Master and/or Parks, Recreation & Facilities Director
Supervision Exercised: None
Employment Type: Part-Time, Seasonal
Schedule: 27–36 hours per week, typically May through October

Position Summary

The Deputy Harbor Master assists the Harbor Master in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the municipal harbor. Responsibilities include enforcement of regulations, management of dockage and mooring assignments, and coordination of maintenance and safety initiatives.

This position helps ensure compliance with local, state, and federal maritime laws while providing high-quality service to boaters, commercial operators, and the public. The Deputy Harbor Master also supports emergency response, environmental protection efforts, and harbor development initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

(The following duties are illustrative and not exhaustive. Additional duties may be assigned.)

• Enforce harbor rules, regulations, and maritime laws to ensure the safety and security of vessels and personnel.
• Assist with the assignment and management of mooring, docking, and anchorage spaces; maintain accurate records.
• Conduct regular patrols of harbor waters and facilities to monitor vessel activity and ensure compliance.
• Assist with the maintenance and repair of harbor infrastructure, including docks, piers, ramps, and navigation aids.
• Coordinate with the U.S. Coast Guard, local law enforcement, and emergency response teams during incidents and hazardous conditions.
• Respond to marine emergencies, including vessel accidents, environmental spills, and severe weather events.
• Assist boaters with docking, fueling, and navigation inquiries, process payments for fuel sales.
• Provide courteous and professional assistance to residents, visitors, and harbor users.
• Maintain the safety, cleanliness, and appearance of harbor facilities, including minor landscaping and painting.
• Monitor weather conditions and communicate advisories or restrictions as necessary.
• Monitor security systems, including surveillance and access control.
• Support environmental compliance efforts, including pollution prevention, water quality monitoring, and waste management.
• Assist with maintenance of Harbor Park and associated structures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; maritime or management training preferred.
• Valid driver’s license required; boating safety certification preferred.
• Knowledge of navigation rules, vessel operations, and emergency response procedures.
• First Aid, CPR, and water rescue certification preferred.
• Mechanical knowledge of vessels and harbor equipment is a plus.

Core Competencies and Attributes

• Maritime Knowledge – Understanding of boating operations, navigation, tides, and weather conditions.
• Safety and Security Awareness – Ability to enforce regulations and respond effectively to emergencies.
• Customer Service – Strong interpersonal skills and ability to interact professionally with the public.
• Problem-Solving and Decision-Making – Ability to assess situations quickly and implement effective solutions.
• Regulatory Compliance – Familiarity with applicable laws, permitting processes, and environmental regulations.
• Communication – Clear verbal and written communication skills.
• Physical Endurance and Adaptability – Ability to work in varying weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks.

Work Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Work is performed both in an office setting and outdoors in all weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and high winds.
• Exposure to marine hazards, including slippery surfaces, rough waters, and changing tides.
• May require irregular hours, including weekends, holidays, and emergency call-outs.
• Regular interaction with the public, commercial operators, and enforcement agencies.
• Ability to respond effectively to emergencies and high-pressure situations.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50–75 pounds.
• Ability to swim and assist in water rescues if necessary.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, climbing, and working on uneven surfaces.
• Ability to operate boats, ATVs, and vehicles in a variety of conditions.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Compensation

The starting wage for this position is $18.00 per hour. This is a seasonal, part-time position and is not eligible for City benefits.

Application Process

Paper applications are available at Ellsworth City Hall (1 City Hall Plaza, Ellsworth, ME 04605), Attn: Human Resources Department, or online at www.ellsworthmaine.gov/apply. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

The City of Ellsworth is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Pay: $18.00 per hour

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18