Volunteer Tour Boat Captain at Moraine State Park

Position Overview

Position Type: (Seasonal Volunteer – March through November)
Volunteer Tour Boat Captains are needed to operate a tour boat on Lake Arthur in Moraine State Park. The boat is a 55 foot, two level pontoon boat. During the cruising season between May and October we perform ~155 cruises with over 4,500 passengers. The cruises are a mixture of public cruises, private charters and school groups. Our goal is to provide a safe and engaging experience that highlights the park’s natural resources, wildlife, and history. Please apply through the indeed application by clicking 'Website' at the top of this page.

Key Responsibilities - Vessel Operation & Safety

• Safely operate a commercial passenger carrying vessel
  
• Monitor weather and water conditions and make operational safety decisions
  
• Follow all applicable boating regulations and park policies
  
• Respond appropriately to emergencies and visitor needs
  
• For cruises a First Mate will assist with boat setup, operation and docking. The First Mate will provide narration during the cruise
• Assist with boat maintenance activities

Key Responsibilities - Program Support

• Coordinate with nonprofit staff, park staff, and volunteer crew
  
• Participation in required training and orientation sessions
  
• Over the course of the 6-month operational season
  
• Completion of at least 20 educational/school, public or charter cruises.
  
• Contribution of a minimum of 10 volunteer workdays supporting vessel setup, seasonal preparation, routine maintenance, and end-of-season breakdown
  

Qualifications - Required

Credentials

• Possess a PA Fish and Boat Commission Boating Safety Education Certificate
  
• Possess or obtain a PA Fish and Boat Commission Class III Captain’s License. Applicants will receive the necessary training to meet this requirement. Fees incurred will be reimbursed.
  
• Must have his/her physician complete a form we will supply relating to the applicant’s health including a drug test.
  
• Possess a valid and current Child Abuse History Clearance from the PA Department of Human Services
  
• Pass a PA State Police criminal background check
  
• Experience driving a 25’ boat with at least one 90 hp engine (or similar experience).
  
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  
• Availability to volunteer on weekends, holidays and during the active cruise season (May through October)
  
• Comfortable working outdoors in variable weather conditions
  

Qualifications - Preferred

• Experience driving a boat of more than 25’ and more than one 90 hp engine (or similar experience).
  
• Possession of a US Coast Guard Captain’s License (Merchant Mariner Credential)
  
• Familiarity with Lake Arthur and Moraine State Park
  

Volunteer Status & Expense Offset

This is a volunteer position and is not paid employment. Volunteer Captains who meet the minimum requirement receive a fixed annual stipend intended to offset volunteer-related out-of-pocket expenses.

• Minimum requirement (all tasks identified under Program Support)
  
• The stipend is a fixed amount and is not compensation for services
  
• The stipend is paid annually, at the end of the operating season
  

The stipend is provided in recognition of volunteer service and to support participation in the program.

Time Commitment

• Flexible scheduling during the cruise season (May through October). Although the boat may cruise any day of the week the responsibility for staffing the captain’s position is shared among multiple captains and coordinated between them.
  
• Captains support the program beyond cruises by contributing 10 workdays per year to seasonal boat setup, maintenance, and breakdown activities. Setup occurs starting in mid-March and season breakdown occurs in early November.
  

Benefits of Volunteering

• Share Moraine State Park’s natural beauty with the public from the unique perspective of the boat.
  
• Support conservation and environmental education
  
• Gain experience in boat operations and public engagement
  
• Be part of a dedicated community of park supporters