Job Details

City of Portland - Waterfront - Shoreside Docking Assistant

Position Number: 7058131
Location: Portland, ME
Position Type: Other Administrative Positions

City of Portland - Waterfront - Shoreside Docking Assistant

About the City of Portland Parks, Recreation and Facilities Department:

The Portland Parks, Recreation, and Facilities Department is comprised of 160 full-time and over 250 seasonal staff dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Portland, Maine. They achieve this by operating cultural venues, running community programs (including Before and After School, Swim Lessons, and Senior Adult programs), and maintaining public buildings, waterfront infrastructure, 70 parks, 40+ miles of trails, 13 cemeteries, and 30 playgrounds. Their diverse team, including Park Maintainers, Lifeguards, Event Managers, Horticulturalists, and many others, works collaboratively to provide spaces and opportunities for social connection, recreation, and community development.

Job Summary:

This is a specialized technical role that serves as the critical interface between massive, moving vessels and fixed municipal or terminal infrastructure. This position requires a blend of maritime navigation knowledge, safety protocols, and real-time logistical coordination. The Wharfinger acts as the "Eyes on the Ground" for the Pilot and Ship's Captain, bearing responsibility for the safe berthing of vessels.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Precision Pilotage Support: Provide the Vessel Pilot and Bridge team with real-time "Distance Call-outs" and clearance updates via VHF Marine Radio. This includes precise measurements of the gap between the hull and pier to prevent infrastructure damage.
Berth Alignment & Infrastructure Coordination: Manage the complex alignment of vessel shell doors with shoreside gangways, mooring platforms.
Site Clearance & Obstruction Management: Monitor the wharf for physical obstructions (cranes, gangways, or vehicles) that could snag or impact the vessel during maneuvering.
Knowledge of local tides, currents.

Required Skills & Experience:

Maritime Communications: Proficiency in VHF Marine Radio protocols for coordination with Pilots.
Operational Awareness: The ability to translate complex movements (ship-to-shore) into clear, concise verbal instructions.
Safety & Compliance: An understanding of maritime safety standards and terminal security requirements.
Must possess a TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) or ability to obtain one.

Expected Hours/Schedule:

Hours and weekly schedule varies based on ships arrival or departure.

Applications accepted until filled.

Offers of employment are contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory criminal background check.

Salary & Benefits:

$25.00/hr.

If you have any questions or need assistance with the application, please email Human Resources at jobs@portlandmaine.gov or call 207-874-8624.

The City of Portland believes that to do our best work, our employees need to reflect the diverse, vibrant community we serve. We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to celebrating all dimensions of diversity in the workplace. Applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other applicable legally protected characteristics. If you need to request a reasonable accommodation, please call 207-874-8624 or email hrinfo@portlandmaine.gov.

To apply, visit https://selfservice.portlandmaine.gov/ess/EmploymentOpportunities/JobDetail.aspx?req=291&sreq=7&form=1000&desc=WATERFRONT%20-%20SHORESIDE%20DOCKING%20ASSISTANT