Blue skies, beautiful days, and rolling waves are not usually associated with a day on the job.Is the idea of getting paid to go boating appealing to you?Yacht clubs and recreational boat yards can be found in many summer communities.Launching drivers are employed by these maritime businesses.Water taxi captains shuttle boaters between their vessels and the shore.The usual duties of a launch driver, the necessary qualifications for employment, and ideas about where to get hired are outlined in this article.
Step 1: You should know the duties of the job.
A launch driver is responsible for the operation of a launch boat.The launch driver is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the vessel, as well as providing passengers with friendly service and useful information.The level and condition of the engine oil should be at the proper level as indicated on the dipstick and not too dirty.The level of the coolant should be visible when the cap is removed.The transmission fluid should be dark red and translucent and must be flushed out before the transmission is engaged.You don't want to run out of fuel while untied in the water.Passengers are being picked up at the dock/pier while the boat is being towed.As the passengers enter the boat, greet them warmly with up-to-date weather information and harbor information.If passengers need help with additional gear, we will assist them.In accordance with local navigation rules, you can navigate the waterways safely.Drop-off and pickup routes around the harbor are planned and executed.Approaching and landing on boats.Helping boaters with battery jump starts, boat tows, and mooring assistance.
Step 2: Understand what the pros do.
It is a great occupation to work as a launch driver.It is relaxing and fun to pass workdays under the sun and on the open water.Free boat services, discounts on marine products, and flexible schedules are some of the benefits that launch drivers receive.Launching drivers may make a handsome amount of money in cash if they work where tipping is the norm.
Step 3: Understand the pros and cons.
The job can include long hours, physically demanding days, and periods of high stress.It can be taxing to work outdoors after twelve hours.It is the sole responsibility of the driver on duty to remember on the go which customers have radioed requesting pickup, while simultaneously completing their route.Sometimes a pickup can lead to stress, as it can slip your mind and anger a waiting customer.
Step 4: Make sure you have the right personality for the job.
Being a launch driver requires a lot of skills.You have to be independent.Being a launch driver needs the confidence to take responsibility for the safety of passengers and respond to variable situations at a moment's notice.You have to be friendly.Although your main duty is to pilot the boat, it is important to interact with the passengers and make them feel at ease.You have to be responsible.It takes a risk-averse and conservative attitude to navigate weather, tides, and boats.
Step 5: The demographic requirements are met.
To carry more than seven passengers, you must be at least seventeen years of age, an English speaker, and a US citizen.It's important to know the basics of boat operation.
Step 6: The required forms can be found on the USCG website.
These include the application, physical, entry level, and drug testing.
Step 7: You have to log the sea service hours.
Sea service hours prove to the Coast Guard that the person is familiar with local waters.You can log these hours on the form.120 days of self-documented sea time with 90 days in the last year are required for a USCG limited masters license.90 days of self-documented sea time in the last year is required for a USCG limited OUPV license.
Step 8: The physical exam needs to be completed.
The physical makes sure that you are able to do your job.It is very similar to a doctor's office physical, but focuses more on vision.Most maritime markers and buoy are red or green because of colorblindness.The physician should fill out the form.Pre-employment physicals can be done at an occupational center such as Concentra.
Step 9: You need to take a pre-employment drug test.
You need to pass a DOT-5 drug panel that tests for marijuana, cocaine, and opiates.The results should be reported on the form.
Step 10: Become certified in first aid for adults, children, and infants.
If a passenger is injured, the captain of the boat needs to be able to address the situation.
Step 11: You have to take a safe boating class.
This class is necessary for you to be knowledgeable about basic navigation, operation, and boat safety.
Step 12: The exam is approved by the US Coast Guard.
You need to pass a multiple-choice exam to ensure your knowledge of maritime information.You will include the certificate in your application packet after you pass the exam.
Step 13: Obtain a TWIC for transportation workers.
A TWIC is a license.To get one, you have to visit an enrollee center, take a photo, and pay a fee.
Step 14: Send in your application once all the steps are complete.
The forms that should be completed are: application, physical, entry level, drug testing, and sea service.All of them should be sent to your local USCG office.You will be able to start work as a launch driver if your application is approved.There are links at the bottom of the article.
Step 15: Personal connections can be used.
Launching and maritime work consists of a close-knit community.If you live in a coastal community, you may know someone who is a launch driver.They should recommend you to their employer.For quick employment, this personal introduction can work wonders.
Step 16: Contacts can be made with your local maritime community.
There are opportunities to interact with maritime professionals, recreational boaters, and dock-hands.These people are always around the waterfront and will be aware of job opportunities for the aspiring launch driver.
Step 17: You can inquire at yacht clubs, boatyards, and boat repair shops.
Ask businesses that have established launch services if they have openings since most launch driving positions are provided by private companies.When many of the previous season's drivers leave to work elsewhere, it is best to ask about available positions during the off-season.
Step 18: Managers and business owners can be contacted directly.
Launching driving is a very niche profession.Managers and business owners are hard-pressed to find suitable employees since there aren't many people qualified to drive launch boats.It can seem daunting to approach a business owner directly, but it is often the fastest way to be hired as a launch driver.
Step 19: During training, pay attention.
The basics of boat operation, maintenance, and customer service can be learned during the training period.As a launch driver, you will often work without supervision.You will need to prove to your employer that you can handle the demands of the job without constant guidance.