Watchfloor Operator

Position Overview: The NYC Ferry Watchfloor is responsible for monitoring the daily movements and operational aspects of the NYC Ferry System.  The Watchfloor staff provides critical oversight of NYC Ferry and is the internal communications hub during emergencies ensuring NYCEDC and City leadership are informed of ongoing urgent or emergent situations.   

This is a part-time role responsible for supporting the NYC Ferry Watchfloor. As part of a team of four individuals, the Watchfloor Operators work independently to cover two daily shifts and field shifts as needed.  Each Watchfloor Operator shift includes checking in, active review and communication of system status, and a close-out report.   

• Morning Shift: 5:30 am – 2:30 pm  

• Evening Shift: 2:00 pm – 11:00 pm   

• Field Shifts: During field-shifts (also referred to as floating shifts) Watchfloor staff observe, assess, and document conditions on board ferries and ferry landings.  Field shifts are scheduled four times per week during Spring/Summer months and twice a week the rest of the year.  Typical field shifts run 9:00 am – 5:00 pm and last eight hours with a one-hour break.   

Shift schedules may vary based on operational needs to ensure adequate Watchfloor and field-shift coverage.  

Work Hours: 

• Average of 20 hours per week during fall/winter (November–April) 

• Average of 28 hours per week during spring/summer (May–October) 

• Weekly hours may vary depending on operational needs; no fixed schedule is guaranteed 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:  

• Closely monitor NYC Ferry operations throughout the service day. 

• Periodically check ferry landings and vessels in the field to ensure compliance with safety, security, and customer service standards. 

• Communicate with ferry operator’s dispatch unit and relay issues to NYCEDC team as needed. 

• Monitor vessel traffic in the harbor and track on-time performance. 

• Record key metrics and incident reports. 

• Respond to emergency situations, following protocol. 

• Maintain operations records. 

• Other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications: 

• Associate or bachelor’s degree preferred; alternatively, at least (2) two years of experience in dispatching, logistics, emergency services, or related fields. 

• Ability to take ownership of assigned responsibilities while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail. 

• Clear and effective written and verbal communication skills combined with critical thinking skills to convey timely operational information to peers and managers.    

• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with senior management during real-time emergencies and time-sensitive situations. 

• Dependable and available for in field and on-site work between 5:30 am and 11:00 pm, seven days a week.  

• New York City residence is required within 180 days of hire. 

Salary Target: $28.84-$29.80/hour