Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center Boat Operator

Position Goals:

• Captain a National Park Service boat for visitor programs
• Provide light, informal interpretation to visitors when requested by NPS staff
• Assist with boat maintenance 

Description of Duties:

An NPS Volunteer Boat Captain is responsible for the safe, legal, and efficient operation of park‑approved watercraft, supporting visitor services, resource protection, and safety while following all National Park Service guidelines.

Navigation & Vessel Operation

• Safely navigate waters within and adjacent to the park
• Plan routes, set course and speed, and adjust for weather, tides, currents, and hazards
• Ensure safe docking/launching and compliance with maritime best practices 

Safety & Emergency Preparedness

• Conduct pre‑trip safety checks and ensure all safety equipment is functional
• Enforce safety rules on board and participate in pre-tour safety briefing
• Respond to emergencies (e.g., mechanical issues, weather hazards) 

Maintenance & Vessel Care

• Inspect the vessel for mechanical or structural issues; coordinate repairs with park staff as needed 
• Keep the boat clean, organized, and in good condition 

Visitor Services & Resource Protection

• Provide information and guidance to visitors during boat operations
• Support park rangers in monitoring habitats, protecting cultural resources, and assisting with environmental education
• Assist in special events, outreach, or conservation projects as assigned 

Administrative Duties

• Communicate with park staff as needed 
• Follow all NPS safety, environmental, and operational policies

Qualifications/Requirements:

• Must be age 19 or older to captain the boat
• Must have a valid driver's license
• Must successfully complete NPS Motorboat Operator Certification Course (MOCC) or have a record of completion within the last five (5) years. NPS will provide required training.

Working Environment & Safety Considerations:

• Standing or walking for periods of 3 hours per day. 
• Lifting loads or carrying backpacks of 35 pounds.
• Performing duties in temperatures ranging from 40 to 90 degrees. 
• Biological hazards include the presence of biting and stinging insects (including ants, wasps, bees, deer flies, mosquitoes and others), spiders (including brown recluse and black widows), alligators and other reptiles (including venomous and non-venomous species), and of irritating vegetation (including poison ivy and plants with thorns).
• All necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided.
• More in depth look into hazards can be found in the Job Hazard Analysis.