Ferry Administrator

Rates posted are upon budget approval for 2024. Why It's a Great Opportunity:
This is the perfect opportunity for a leader who has expertise in maritime operations and public transportation program management to shape the way Pierce County meets the needs of our island residents and visitors. You will be overseeing ferry operations, maintenance, capital planning, and administration while coordinating with other transportation and transit agencies to provide safe, reliable, and flexible multi-modal transportation options to over 450,000 ferry riders annually.
Why It's a Great Department:
PPW is a diverse and fast-moving department filled with motivated professionals working to ensure Pierce County is positioned to handle growth while building, operating, and maintaining reliable infrastructure to support livable communities. PPW is responsible for a broad and complex portfolio of services that provides unique opportunities to collaborate, innovate, and inspire. We are responsible for the County road and levee systems, sewer systems, airports, ferries, building permits, environmental review, sustainability, community planning, and code enforcement - just to name a few!
Learn more about Planning and Public Works at www.piercecountywa.org/ppw
How to be Successful in the Role:
You must have a strong ability to develop effective working relationships including with the contracted ferry operator, county and city officials, state, federal, and other local transportation agencies while developing and maintaining the long view of the program financials, communication strategy, and capital planning efforts. The Ferry Administrator will develop a firm understanding of the program's operating costs, fare structure, revenue forecasts, and approved budgets will be key to success in planning for long term infrastructure upgrades and replacements. Coaching and mentoring will be provided by PPW other division managers, the Assistant Director, Deputy Director, and the Director to ensure that you thrive in this role.
Your Future in this Role:
Your work in overseeing the operations, maintenance, and improvements of the ferry system with a proactive strategy to identify new funding sources, update the County code, and manage expectations will help ensure long term viability and success of the program. You will work with the Department leadership and Council to draft and implement updates to County ordinances and policies governing ferry fares, schedules, safety regulations and more. Pierce County offers professional development through the Leadership Certification program, robust online learning, and other training opportunities throughout your career to ensure your success.
Core Daily Responsibilities:

• Manage, direct, coordinate, and supervise the day-to-day operations of Pierce County's ferry systems.
• Plan, develop, and implement major department policies, long range planning and programming activities, and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Provide oversight and ensure the implementation of adopted recommendations of ferry studies and plans.
• Oversee and manage an extensive public involvement process. Meet with interested parties and community groups, elected officials, and agency staff to discuss issues pertaining to the ferry system, including but not limited to policies, rates and charges, vessel schedules, safety, noise, terminal operations and management, security and emergency response.
• Oversee and ensure that programs and projects meet timelines and are accomplished within appropriated budget.
• Supervise a maintenance program manager and support staff and manage service contracts to support ferry operations, repairs, and construction projects.

A classification description with a more detailed list of essential functions can be found here. Minimum Qualifications:

• A resume and cover letter are required for this position.
• Bachelor's degree in Transportation Planning, Business or Public Administration, Engineering, or related field.
• Five years of progressively responsible transportation program administration, planning or analysis experience.
• Two years in a lead or supervisory capacity.
• Any equivalent combination of education and experience which includes two years in a lead or supervisory capacity is required.
• Additional education or experience which clearly indicates the ability to perform the essential functions of this position may substitute on a year for year basis.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A Master's degree in Business, Public Administration or related field is preferred.

As a condition of employment, the applicant will need to authorize and complete a background check. Information received from the background check is reviewed case-by-case and will not necessarily remove an applicant from consideration.To be considered for this opportunity please:

• Complete and submit a detailed online Pierce County Employment Application by selecting "APPLY" above or go to: www.piercecountywa.org/jobs.
• If you have a question about this opportunity, please email the Recruitment Team at PCHRRecruit@piercecountywa.gov and specify the Job Number and Title.
• If you do not have internet access, you may visit your local public library or any WorkSource location and use their computers.
• Individuals needing accommodation in the application, testing process or need this job announcement in an alternative format may call Human Resources at (253) 798-7480, at least two days prior to the need.

This is a competitive selection process. Your application will be reviewed and evaluated for the quality and quantity of education/experience in the areas listed. Applicants whose qualifications most closely correspond to the County's needs will be eligible for further consideration. Notification of application status normally occurs 2 to 3 weeks after the closing date. Short notice may be given to applicants to participate in further selection processes which may include assessments, phone screen, and interviews.
At Pierce County, diversity, equity, and inclusion means commitment, not a single step. We strive to foster an inclusive environment that supports equitable access to opportunities throughout your career. We want to recruit, develop, and maintain a talented workforce from various backgrounds, cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives, committed to our vision. Employees of the County have local, direct, and visible impact in our diverse community. Will you join us in keeping Pierce County a great place to live, work, and raise a family? Employment Type: Career Service - Full Time