Director of Operations – Passenger Ferry Service Full Time NEW

Position Overview

The Director of Operations is a senior leadership position responsible for the strategic direction,

planning, oversight, and execution of passenger ferry operations throughout the San Francisco

Bay. This role ensures that service is delivered safely, reliably, and efficiently while meeting all

contractual obligations, including those established by the Water Emergency Transportation

Authority (WETA).

The Director serves as the primary operational liaison to WETA and is expected to maintain a

high level of professionalism, responsiveness, and engagement.

Disclaimer: This position is part of a contract bid. We’re identifying candidates now for proposal submission, and hiring will move forward if the contract is awarded and you’re selected. Please note that inclusion in the proposal does not guarantee employment.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Management & Service Delivery

 Lead and oversee daily ferry operations, including service planning, vessel rotations,

crew scheduling, and coordination with maintenance functions to ensure uninterrupted

service.

 Ensure that all routes operate smoothly, minimizing disruptions while maintaining

consistent and reliable service levels.

 Align vessel operations and maintenance activities through strong internal coordination

and communication practices.

Customer Experience & Service Excellence

 Drive initiatives that enhance the passenger experience, with an emphasis on safety,

reliability, and overall service quality.

 Promote a customer-focused culture across all levels of the operation.

 Ensure service delivery consistently meets established performance and satisfaction

standards.

Performance Monitoring & Reporting

 Establish, track, and evaluate operational performance metrics to assess service

effectiveness and identify opportunities for improvement.

 Use data-driven insights to implement operational enhancements and resolve service

challenges.

 Prepare and deliver regular reports summarizing performance, risks, and improvement

efforts to WETA and senior leadership.

Safety, Compliance & Regulatory Oversight

 Ensure full compliance with all applicable maritime regulations, safety requirements,

environmental standards, and labor agreements.

 Reinforce safe working practices and maintain a strong organizational safety culture.

 Oversee incident response processes, including investigation, reporting, and

implementation of corrective actions.

Leadership & Workforce Development

 Provide leadership and direction to operations personnel, including supervisors, vessel

masters, and crew members.

 Support employee development through coaching, mentoring, and training initiatives.

 Foster an inclusive, accountable, and high-performing work environment.

Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

 Maintain strong working relationships with WETA, regulatory agencies, labor

representatives, vendors, and community partners.

 Facilitate effective communication between departments to ensure alignment across

operations, maintenance, and administrative teams.

 Represent the organization in meetings, briefings, and coordination efforts with internal

and external stakeholders.

Financial & Resource Management

 Oversee operational budgeting and resource planning, ensuring efficient and responsible

use of personnel, equipment, and materials.

 Monitor expenditures and adjust plans as needed to meet financial and operational

objectives.

Continuous Improvement & Industry Awareness

 Stay informed on developments in ferry operations, maritime technology, and regulatory

changes.

 Identify and implement improvements that enhance operational efficiency, safety, and

service delivery.

Additional Duties & Operational Support

 Support operational needs as required, which may include vessel operation if

appropriately credentialed.

 Maintain a consistent leadership presence and ensure reliability in performance and

attendance.

 Perform additional related duties as necessary to support service continuity and

organizational objectives.

Minimum Qualifications

(Comparable experience or equivalent qualifications will be considered)

 Bachelor’s degree in Marine Operations, Marine Engineering, Business Administration,

or a related field

 10+ years of progressively responsible experience in marine or passenger transportation

operations, including senior leadership roles

 Demonstrated experience managing complex, safety-sensitive operations

 Strong knowledge of maritime regulations, including USCG requirements

Preferred Qualifications

 Experience working with public transportation agencies

 USCG Merchant Mariner Credential or similar maritime licensure

 Experience in unionized environments

 Background in budgeting, contract oversight, and multi-site operations

Key Competencies

 Strategic and operational leadership

 Strong analytical and performance management skills

 Effective communication and stakeholder engagement

 Sound judgment and decision-making under pressure

 Commitment to safety, compliance, and service excellence

Work Environment & Expectations

 Work performed in both office and field environments, including onboard vessels and at

waterfront facilities

 Exposure to varying weather and marine conditions

 Availability outside standard business hours to respond to operational needs

This position is fully dedicated to ferry operations and the overall management of service

delivery. The Director of Operations must remain readily available to WETA personnel on an

as-needed basis, including the ability to respond promptly to requests and attend ad hoc

meetings as required. During any planned absence, a qualified interim Director of Operations

will be designated, with no less than two (2) weeks’ advance notice provided to ensure

continuity of leadership and oversight.