Crew / Naturalist

Minimum skills and qualifications

• Must adhere to company dress code
• Must have current Marine First Aid and CPR certification
• Must have Domestic Vessel Safety (DVS), Transport Canada approval–***Please note applications that do not include DVS and Marine First Aid will not be responded to***
• Subject to pre-employment and/or random drug testing
• Smart phone with voice mail. Must answer all calls for last-minute trips
• Email address and check email daily
• Photography while on duty: may take a few pictures to assist with social media
• Have reliable transportation
• No personal cell phone use, texting or Social Media while on the clock
• Available Saturdays, Sundays, evenings and holidays

Job summary

Crew/Naturalists are expected to educate, inform and monitor all guests during tours. Presenting information on whales (Bigg’s, resident killer whales, humpback, grey and minke) marine mammals, birds, general ecology, the whale watching guidelines; the importance and history of the Salish Sea and other subjects, are the main focus during the tour. The Crew/Naturalist may also be the acting First Mate on the vessel, responsible for helping the Captain in any way with an emphasis on safety. Pre- and post-trip boat cleaning is also an important part of the tour. Some hours will be spent working at the Sales and Reservations Desk.  Must be available evenings and weekends.

Essential functions and responsibilities

1. Perform duties as crew to Captain, which may include the pre-trip briefing prior to vessel leaving the dock
2. Help suit passengers with proper sizes of protective gear at dock and put away suits after a trip
3. Educate and inform clients about Salish Sea wildlife, natural history, marine mammals, Bigg’s and resident killer whales, grey, humpback and minke whales, general ecology, and other flora and fauna
4. Monitor all passengers to assure they are comfortable, warm and safe, know where ID catalogues, binoculars, and blankets are and keep guests well informed
5. Clean and prepare vessel pre- and post-trip (including ensuring marine head is sanitized and stocked)
6. Empty and clean marine head daily or as needed
7. Continue learning new material on all local whales, marine mammals, birds and the Salish Sea area, to work towards becoming a more informed expert in the field
8. Safely and efficiently pick up/drop off hotel passengers in company van (when needed)

Technical skills

1. Transport Canada Domestic Vessel Safety (DVS)
2. Marine Basic First Aid & CPR Level C
3. Valid BC Driver’s Licence (or international equivalent)
4. People-oriented, strong communication/public speaking skills, education experience or background are all characteristics we look for
5. Strong work ethic and team-oriented skills are a must
6. Must enjoy educating diverse audiences about wildlife and other subjects
7. Must be willing and capable of selling tours
8. Able to work long hours – 10 hours/daily 50+ hours/weekly
9. Physically fit and able to be on your feet during a full day’s work
10. Able to work effectively with others, with strong team working abilities
11. Ability to speak other languages a strong bonus

General Information

1. Background in natural sciences preferred. Studies in marine biology, geology, cetaceans, marine mammals, general ecology, and ornithology are preferred fields of study
2. Working knowledge of boats, and experience working on open water
3. 21 yrs. or older, college or university education preferred with a background in marine sciences, biology, zoology and outdoor education are all strong prerequisites
4. Familiarity with the Pacific Whale Watch Association (PWWA) white paper Pacific Whale Watching Association (PWWA) White Paper and guidelines
5. The Whale Museum’s Naturalist Training Class helpful SSAMN