Workboat Skipper

The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group is seeking a Workboat Skipper to operate vessels within the Company’s workboat fleet, supporting freight, passenger, and general marine operations.

The Workboat Skipper is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of an assigned commercial workboat, operated in accordance with statutory requirements, the Company’s Safety Management System, and Workboat Code Edition 3.

The role involves working as part of a two-person crew and may include the carriage of passengers and/or supernumeraries, in addition to freight and equipment. Operations may take place across a variety of locations and operating areas, depending on operational demand.

Desirable experience and Skills

• Experience operating commercial workboats or small coastal vessels.
• Experience of landing craft operations.
• Experience in freight handling, cargo securing, and deck operations.
• Experience with lifting operations, including crane use and load securing.
• Experience with dangerous goods carriage (IMDG awareness).
• Proven vessel-handling skills in tidal, confined, and weather-affected waters.
• Ability to adapt to varying operating areas, ports, and tasks.
• Strong understanding of local operating conditions within the Isles of Scilly.
• Good digital competency for use of SMS, electronic chart systems, and reporting tools.

key responsibilities

Vessel Operation & Navigation

• Take responsibility for the safe navigation, handling, and operation of the vessel
• Ensure voyages are planned and conducted safely, considering weather, tidal, and traffic conditions
• Maintain effective lookout, situational awareness, and watchkeeping practices
• Ensure passenger numbers, stability limits, and vessel operating criteria are complied with at all times

Passenger Carriage & Onboard Safety

• Ensure passengers and supernumeraries are carried safely, courteously, and in accordance with Company procedures and statutory requirements
• Ensure safe boarding, disembarkation, and transit onboard the vessel
• Provide clear safety briefings and information appropriate to the operation
• Ensure the onboard environment remains safe, orderly, and suitable for passenger operations

Freight, Cargo & Lifting Operations

• Carry out and supervise freight and deck operations safely and efficiently
• Ensure cargo is properly loaded, stowed, secured, and discharged
• Operate and supervise lifting equipment within certified limits and Company procedures
• Maintain awareness of vessel stability, trim, and operational limitations

Dangerous Goods (IMDG)

• Ensure dangerous goods are carried in accordance with the IMDG Code and Company procedures
• Verify correct documentation, stowage, segregation, and securing
• Escalate any non-conformities or concerns via the SMS and to the Senior Workboat Skipper

Safety, Environmental & Regulatory Compliance

• Implement and comply with the Company’s Safety Management System onboard
• Actively promote a strong safety culture and challenge unsafe practices
• Prevent pollution and protect the marine environment at all times
• Ensure incidents, near-misses, and hazards are reported accurately through the SMS
• Lead and participate in drills, training, audits, and inspections

Crew & Teamworking

• Work effectively as part of a small onboard team
• Provide clear direction during operations and emergency situations
• Support safe working practices and professional standards onboard
• Maintain clear, professional communication with colleagues and shore teams

Professional Conduct

• Act at all times in a manner that promotes and protects the interests, reputation, and values of the Company
• Represent the Company positively when interacting with passengers, customers, contractors, and stakeholders
• Undertake any other reasonable duties appropriate to the role, as required by the Senior Workboat Skipper or Marine Superintendent

Qualifications

• RYA Powerboat Advanced or RYA Yachtmaster Coastal (Commercial Endorsement required)
  (Other qualifications, including RYA Day Skipper, may be considered depending on experience and vessel type)
• Valid ENG1 medical certificate.
• Workboat Code 3 training.
• Up-to-date STCW mandatory training, including refreshers where required.