Riverboat Deckhand

Job Summary – About the Role

Deliver high quality recreation services for residents, visitors and the St. Charles community by adhering to the District’s safety and administrative policies and procedures.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience

This position is well suited for someone with a friendly and positive personality who is productive and shows initiative, is an effective written and oral communicator, is reliable and safety-minded. 

Required: Must be a minimum of 16 years of age. Have strong communication and interpersonal skills. Interest in manual labor, customer relations and an outdoor work environment.  Must be able to stand or walk for the duration of the shift. Able to ascend and descend stairs and ladders, sometimes while transporting tools or objects. Good hand-eye coordination, balance and alertness. Able to work in a team setting and take direction from Captain and administrative supervisors. Required to pass pre-employment and subsequent random drug screens. Must attend substance abuse training. Maintain DCFS mandated reporter certificate or obtain certification within 30 days of hire. Maintain First Aid/CPR/AED certification or obtain certification within 30 days of hire.

Preferred:   Applicants are preferred to be available for the entire season: May 1-October 30 as well as preseason training the month of April.  Prior customer service experience preferred.

Essential Functions of the Position

Park District Cornerstones

• Follow all departmental safety rules that pertain to the duties performed and support all aspects of Park District’s safety and risk management program.
• Work cooperatively and collaboratively with residents, colleagues, the public, PDRMA and other agencies or organizations as delegated.
• Recommends improvements and efficiencies to better accomplish individual and district goals in the best interests of the St. Charles Park District community.
• Comply with park district policies and administrative procedures.

Responsibilities

Under the direction and supervision of the Superintendent of Recreation, Assistant Superintendents of Recreation and the Manager of Cruise Operations, the Riverboat Deckhand is responsible for the daily operations of the Riverboat cruises and maintenance including:  

• Assist with inspections and maintenance of all on-board equipment, machinery and safety equipment.
• Recognize, investigate and report any unsafe conditions or damage to vessel.
• Maintain with accuracy and timeliness: a daily vessel log, pre-launch checklist, incident/accident forms and other specialized reports.
• Assist in loading and unloading materials from the vessels.
• Responsible for casting off the lines upon departure and tying up the boat upon return.
• Perform tasks necessary to keep the passenger cabin and main deck areas safe and clean; including, but not limited to: sweeping, mopping, and scrubbing the deck, washing vessel windows (inside and out), cleaning and supplying restrooms, cleaning storage areas and passenger cabin, emptying trash and replacing liners.
• Assist with maintenance and general upkeep of the riverboats.
• Assist passengers with ticket sales and collection, boarding and disembarking the vessel.
• Conduct concessions sales, including inventorying, presenting goods for sale, cash handling and reporting.
• Provide friendly and resourceful communications to passengers, including answering questions, minor dispute resolutions, and assisting with packages as requested.
• Assist with vessel handling during arrival and departure from dock, during emergency procedures and as requested by the captain.
• Assume command and maintain responsibility for the safe operation of the vessel when directed by captain and in emergency response.
• Assist to ensure adherence to Coast Guard rules and regulation, and other federal and local rules and regulations.
• Provide information to guests about the Paddlewheel Riverboats.
• Participate in the execution of the Safety Program, including emergency drills
• Ensure that staff and guests adhere to all safety standards and procedures.
• Participate in Emergency Response Plans as needed.
• Maintain a professional appearance, friendly attitude and approachable demeanor while performing duties and while on Park District premises.
• Maintain and promote excellent customer service relations with patrons, staff and affiliates.
• Attend and actively participate in training and staff meetings.

Marginal Functions of the Position

• Perform other related duties and/or special projects as assigned.
• Help respond to passengers and park patrons who request information about the Paddlewheel Riverboat and other Park District amenities, services and facilities.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

EEO Statement and Accommodations

The St Charles Park District is an equal opportunity employer under all state and federal laws and regulations. The job responsibilities are subject to accommodations pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. If you require assistance or accommodation with the application process, please contact the Business Department at 630-584-1055.

The Park District offers the following benefits to all Part-Time Category III employees:

• District Incentives
  • Paid Training
  • Discounts for Programs

Salary : $17 - $18