Boat Operator I/II - Public Works

Boat Operator I/II - Public Works

Salary

$42,827.20 - $60,715.20 Annually

Location

Loleta, CA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

26-00019

Department

Public Works

Division

325 - Roads-Construction & Maintenance

Opening Date

07/27/2026

Closing Date

8/17/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

DEFINITION

BOAT OPERATOR I/II - PUBLIC WORKS

Job Highlights:

This position is responsible for a variety of duties, including:

• During high river water levels seasons, performs a variety of Boat Operator duties and responsibilities related to ferry boat operations to provide river passage over low water crossings that are impassible by motor vehicles.
• During low river water levels seasons, performs unskilled to skilled heavy physical labor equivalent to the Countys Road Maintenance Worker class series in the maintenance, repair, and construction of County roads.
• Breaks and removes surfaces; digs, shovels, hauls and loads and unloads spoils, sands, asphalt mixes and other materials; operates jack hammers, pavement breakers, concrete saws, spaders, tampers and a wide variety of hand and power tools related to road maintenance work; shovels, rakes, rolls and irons asphalt and sprays oil; operates a variety of heavy trucks; sand seals surfaces; prepares for overlays; cleans up work sites upon completion of jobs; works at rock production sites.
• Performs traffic monitoring and control, including the distribution of barricades, warning signs, safety cones and/or flagging for the vehicles.
• Installs, repairs and maintains culverts, ditches and drainage structures; excavates and clears roads and ditches.
• Operates a variety of light construction equipment such as dump trucks, backhoes, rollers, loaders, patch pots, and sweepers;
• Inspects vehicles and performs minor maintenance; reports the need for major repairs and service; fuels and lubricates vehicles and related equipment; washes and cleans assigned vehicles.

Please Note:

• This position is based out of Loleta CA with various work assignments within Humboldt County.

• A typical work schedule for this position is:

• Mon - Thursday 6:30AM to 5PM (1/2 lunch) Summertime Hours

• Mon - Friday 7:30AM to 4PM (1/2 lunch) Winter Hours

• This position is represented by the AFSCME bargaining unit.

DEFINITION

Under immediate (Boat Operator I) to general (Boat Operator II) supervision, performs unskilled to skilled heavy, physical work in the maintenance, repair and construction of roads and the operation of crusher equipment; operates a ferry boat to transport passengers across rivers when low water crossings are impassible; and performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives immediate (Boat Operator I) to general (Boat Operator II) supervision from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Boat Operator I: This is the entry-level classification in the Boat Operator series. Initially under immediate supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine ferry boat operation during high river water level seasons and road maintenance duties during low river water level seasons. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. Boat Operator I will train to operate heavier equipment.

Boat Operator II: This is the journey-level classification in the Boat Operator series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the I level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This class is distinguished from Boat Operator III class in that the latter performs the more complex work assigned to the series and/or providing technical and functional direction over lower-level staff. This class is further distinguished from the Road Maintenance Worker class series in that the latter does not have responsibilities for ferry boat operation and maintenance. Operates all equipment as a Boat Operator II, including heavy equipment for Crusher operations.

Positions in the Boat Operator I/II class series are flexibly staffed and positions at the II level are typically filled by advancement from the I level after two years of training to gain the knowledge, skill, and experience which meet the qualifications for, and after demonstrating the ability to perform the work of, the higher-level classification.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignment of different positions.

Some duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities may be performed in a learning capacity for entry-level (I-level) positions.

• During high river water levels seasons, performs a variety of Boat Operator duties and responsibilities related to ferry boat operations to provide river passage over low water crossings that are impassible by motor vehicles
• During low river water levels seasons, performs unskilled to skilled heavy physical labor equivalent to the County's Road Maintenance Worker class series in the maintenance, repair, and construction of County roads.
• Breaks and removes surfaces; digs, shovels, hauls and loads and unloads spoils, sands, asphalt mixes and other materials; operates jack hammers, pavement breakers, concrete saws, spaders, tampers and a wide variety of hand and power tools related to road maintenance work; shovels, rakes, rolls and irons asphalt and sprays oil; operates a variety of heavy trucks; sand seals surfaces; prepares for overlays; cleans up work sites upon completion of jobs; works at rock production sites.
• Performs traffic monitoring and control, including the distribution of barricades, warning signs, safety cones and/or flagging for the vehicles.
• Installs, repairs and maintains culverts, ditches and drainage structures; excavates and clears roads and ditches.
• Operates a variety of light construction equipment such as dump trucks, backhoes, rollers, loaders, patch pots, and sweepers;
• Inspects vehicles and performs minor maintenance; reports the need for major repairs and service; fuels and lubricates vehicles and related equipment; washes and cleans assigned vehicles.
• Operates and maintains a wide variety of hand and power tools and equipment related to work assignments.
• Observes safe work methods and safety practices related to the work; cones and flags worksites to secure from traffic; uses appropriate safety equipment; observes safe driving practices.
• Maintains access to the boat landing; maintains the ferry boat, outboard motor, life jackets, and boat trailer to comply with all applicable safety standards; washes and cleans the equipment; performs preventative maintenance and reports needed repairs.
• Ferries passengers across river waterways which are impassible by motor vehicle; enforces applicable rules, regulations and practices for ferry boat passenger and operator safety.
• Maintains log of work performed including recording repairs to the ferry boat, motor, trailer, life jackets and access; prepares reports of work performed, and a variety of passenger data.
• Responds to emergency situations during off hours as required.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge and ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

QUALIFICATIONS

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of safe boating operations.
• Small watercraft operations, including outboard motor operations.
• Techniques, materials, tools, equipment and vehicles used in the maintenance and repair of boats, roads and crusher equipment.
• Operation and maintenance of a wide variety of hand and power tools and equipment used in the work.
• Safe work methods and safety regulations pertaining to the work.
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and ordinances relevant to the area(s) of responsibility.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and County staff.
• The structure and content of the English language to effectively perform the work.
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

Ability to:

• Operate a ferry boat according to applicable safety standards.
• Accurately analyze river conditions and adopt a proper course of action for passage.
• Operate road construction and crusher equipment such as trucks, rollers, loaders and backhoes.
• Perform heavy physical labor.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Exercise sound independent judgment and initiative without close supervision.
• Keep accurate records and prepare simple reports.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade.

and

Boat Operator I: Two (2) years of training in the operation of a small watercraft and six (6) months of work experience as a laborer in construction or maintenance work.

Boat Operator II: Two (2) years of experience in construction and maintenance of roads and the safe operation of a passenger ferry boat at a level equivalent to the County's class of Boat Operator I.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Must possess a valid US driver's license upon date of application. Must obtain California driver's license following hire date per California DMV regulations.
• Must possess certification of completion of a basic boating safety course provided by the California Department of Boating and Waterways, the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary or other appropriate agency or obtain such certification within 60 days of hire.
• Must obtain a First Aid Certificate within 60 days of hire at the I level. Must possess a First Aid Certificate prior to hire date at the II level.
• Must obtain a Class B driver's license within 6 months of hire at the I level. Must possess a Class B driver's license prior to hire at the II level.
• Must obtain a Class A driver's license within 6 months of hire at the II level.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Mobility to work in the field on roads and waterways; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery ground and watercraft surfaces as well as on rolling, pitching, and yawing watercraft; frequently reach, twist, turn, kneel, bend, stoop, squat, crouch, grasp and make repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties; to climb and descend ladders; to operate varied hand and power tools and construction equipment, to operate a ferry boat safely; and to operate a motor vehicle and visit various County sites.
• Strength and stamina to perform medium to heavy physical work; to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging a weight of 50 pounds or heavier weights up to 100 pounds, in all cases with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff.
• Vision to inspect and operate equipment and to identify and avoid potential waterway hazards in a river or other small to medium body of water.
• Fieldwork requiring frequent walking in operational areas to identify problems or hazards.
• Finger dexterity to operate and repair tools and equipment.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

• Field work with exposure to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, flooding conditions, road hazards, waterway hazards, chemicals, mechanical and/or hazardous physical substances and fumes, dust and air contaminants.
• Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Pre-employment screening measures are required before an offer of employment can be made for this position (i.e. background screening, physical examination, drug testing, etc.).
• Must be willing to work outside in all weather conditions and to work varied and odd hours.
• This is a DOT (Department of Transportation) covered classification and is subject to random drug and/or alcohol screening.

WORKING CONDITIONS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

HOW TO APPLY

A complete, original application must be filed for each position you are interested in applying for. Applicants must apply online through the County's automated application system at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/humboldtcountyca.

Applications must be submitted no later than the final filing date and time listed on the job flyer.

It is important that your application shows all the relevant education and experience you possess. Human Resources staff does not consider or review resumes or attachments. Incomplete applications will be rejected.

Please read the job requirements section of the announcement. Be sure you meet these requirements since they will be carefully evaluated during the selection process.

Your performance in any employment examinations will be compared with the performance of others who take the tests. The examination results will be emailed to you as quickly as possible.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

The County utilizes a set of rules to ensure that our hiring processes are fair and equitable. Applications will be screened and those considered qualified will be invited to appear for an oral and/or written examination. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee inclusion into the selection process. Depending upon the number of applications received, the selection process may consist of additional application screening, written and/or practical exam(s), oral interview, or any combination thereof.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to fill out the application?

• You should allow 30 - 45 minutes to fill out your application.

Can I change my application after submitting it?

• No. Once an application has been submitted, it is final. Applicants may submit a new application with updated information during the filing period if they wish. Only the most recent application submitted will be considered. All other applications will not be considered.

How long until I hear back from you and how can I check for updates on my application?

• You may receive communications regarding your application at different stages of the selection process. Important updates will be sent to the email address listed in your governmentjobs.com account at the time of notification. To ensure you dont miss any critical information, we recommend keeping your email address current and regularly checking both your inbox and junk mail folders throughout the process. You can also log into your governmentjobs.com account at any time to check your application status. If you have any questions about your applications progress, please contact the County of Humboldt Human Resources Personnel Division at 707-476-2349 or personnel@co.humboldt.ca.us.

Will I be informed if I am not selected for an interview / Oral Exam?

• Yes, you will be informed via email if you are not selected for an interview / Oral Exam.

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

Research indicates that individuals in protected classes can be less likely to submit a job application. The County of Humboldt is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace where our employees are free to bring their full selves to work each day in an environment that allows them to reach their full potential. The County Board of Supervisors has made organizational commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the County is working to ensure that these commitments are reflected in all we do. The County recognizes that certain populations (BIPOC, Disabled Persons, Veterans, LGBTQIA+ community members, etc.) face systemic and structural challenges which may inhibit their ability to satisfy every requirement of the position. In recognition of these structural and systemic factors, the Human Resources Department understands that experience can be gained in many ways - oftentimes, outside of formal institutions - and strives to take a holistic approach in assessing an applicant's qualifications for a position.

If you're excited about this role but your past work experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we strongly encourage you to apply.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access and opportunities in its programs, activities, and employment, and does not discriminate on the basis of mental or physical disabilities. The Human Resources Department is located in the Humboldt County Courthouse, which has an accessible entrance on 4th Street. Accessible parking is available adjacent to the 4th Street entrance and on the 4th Street side of the K Street lot. Special testing arrangements may be made to accommodate disabilities or religious convictions. If invited to an examination and you are in need of a reasonable accommodation, please contact Human Resources immediately at (707) 476-2349 so arrangements can be made.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The county is an equal opportunity employer. We enthusiastically accept our responsibility to make employment decisions without regard to race, religion or religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, military service, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws or ordinances.

MEDICAL EXAMINATION

A pre-employment medical examination provided by the County may be required upon offer of employment.

OTHER EXAMINATIONS

Some positions also require psychological evaluation and/or extensive background investigation.

LICENSES

Some classifications require possession of valid professional and/or technical licenses. Some classifications may require the possession of a valid California driver's license.

PROBATIONARY PERIOD

Persons appointed to regular County positions serve a probationary period. This is normally six (6) months but could be up to one (1) year. All designated safety employees serve a one-year probationary period.

EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY

It is the County's intention to hire only those workers who are authorized to work in the United States, pursuant to the Immigration Act of 1990. If you are offered employment, you will be required to verify your eligibility to work in the United States. For law enforcement positions you will be required to verify your U.S. citizenship or legalized status.

DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS

All County of Humboldt employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.

THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE NECESSARY MODIFICATIONS TO THE EXAMINATION PLAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE HUMBOLDT COUNTY MERIT SYSTEM RULES.

Please Note: Extra Help positions are non-benefitted but may be eligible to purchase health insurance upon meeting the hours worked requirement under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

RETIREMENT

The County of Humboldt participates in the CalPERS, with both the County and the employee making contributions toward the employee's retirement.

CalPERS Retirement Program:

• Tier I - Prior to 7/5/2012: 2.7% @ 55
• Tier II - Post 7/6/2012: 2% @ 55
• Tier III - Post 1/1/2013: 2% @ 62

Please note that these are the tiers available at the County of Humboldt. Tier determination is made by CalPERS. Please reach out to Personnel if you have questions regarding tier placement.

COMPREHESIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE

Our generous benefits package includes:

• Health Insurance

• Medical: Multiple plan options available through CalPERS

• County covers majority of employee premium and contributes to dependent coverage

• Additional Insurance Coverage

• Dental: Full premium coverage for employees and all dependents

• Vision: Full premium coverage for employees and eligible dependents

• County-Provided Benefits

• Life Insurance

• Longevity Pay

• Educational Reimbursement

• Deferred Compensation

• Employee Assistance Program

• Bus Pass Program

Optional Benefits

Employees may elect to purchase additional coverage including:

• Supplemental Life Insurance with guaranteed issuance period at time of hire
• Flexible Spending Accounts

VACATION

1 - 3 completed years of service = 12 days (192-hour cap)

4 - 10 completed years of service = 15 days (240-hour cap)

11 - 15 completed years of service = 20 days (320-hour cap)

16 - 20 completed years of service = 25 days (400-hour cap)

21+ completed years of service = 30 days (480-hour cap)

HOLIDAYS

Employees earn 15 paid holidays per year (specific dates as defined in their specific Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)), including 2 personal holidays.

SICK LEAVE

Employees earn 12 sick days per year with an unlimited cap on sick day accumulation.

PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS

The County is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness certified employer.

INCENTIVE PAY

County employees may be eligible for additional incentive pay, such as on-call pay, shift differential pay, locked facility pay, or annual uniform allowance, as defined in their specific MOU.

Please visit the County of Humboldt Human Resources website at Human Resources | Humboldt County, CA - Official Website for more information on benefits, labor agreements, and job opportunities.

01

This position requires driving on behalf of the County of Humboldt. Do you possess, or can you obtain, a valid California drivers license, prior to your date of hire per California Department of Motor Vehicle regulations?

• Yes
• No

02

Do you possess a Class B drivers license?

• Yes
• No

03

If you do not possess a Class B drivers license, are you able to obtain one within 6 months of hire?

• Yes
• No
• N/A (I have a Class B license)

04

Please indicate your years of training in the operation of a small watercraft:

• None
• Less than 6 months
• 6 months - 1 year
• 1 - 2 years
• 2 - 3 years
• 3 - 5 years
• 5 or more years

05

Please describe your prior training in the operation of a small watercraft:

06

Please indicate your years of work experience as a laborer in construction or maintenance work:

• None
• Less than 6 months
• 6 months - 1 year
• 1 - 2 years
• 2 - 3 years
• 3 - 5 years
• 5 or more years

07

Please describe your prior work experience as a laborer in construction or maintenance work:

08

Any other coursework, training or experience you would like to add that directly relates to this position.

Required Question

Employer County of Humboldt

Address 825 5th Street, Room 100

Eureka, California, 95501

Phone 707-476-2349