Marine Operations Watch Supervisor - Washington State Ferries

State of Washington•King County - Seattle – Belltown, WA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Marine Operations Watch Center Supervisor serves as a critical link in maintaining the safe, secure, and reliable operation of the Washington State Ferry system. As the central communications hub for ferry operations, this position coordinates responses to emergencies, operational disruptions, security incidents, and other time-sensitive events that impact ferry service and the traveling public. This role works closely with vessel crews, terminals, public safety agencies, emergency responders, and partner organizations to ensure the continuity of ferry operations while supporting the safety of passengers, employees, and communities. The position plays a vital role in delivering dependable transportation service across Washington State and upholds WSF’s strategic priorities and values.

Requirements

Growth Mindset – Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
Service-Oriented – Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
Ability to lead, work, and communicate with seasoned maritime professionals both internal and external.
In depth knowledge of maritime passenger transportation systems.
Additional qualifying experience in marine operations or passenger transportation systems.
Working knowledge of International Safety Management (ISM); Safety Management Systems (SMS), USCG regulations and WSF regulations and vessel staffing requirements; Collective Bargaining agreements as they relate to hours of work and paid/unpaid leaves.
Must be comfortable using computer programs/Office suite; familiarity with proprietary computer programs used by the Dispatch/Operations department.
Ability to plan, organize and work independently while maintaining cooperative professional relationships with fleet and terminal employees and operational staff.
Must be able to follow directions and carry out assigned tasks in a timely and effective manner.
Must be able to take the lead during a crisis or service disruption and maintain composure while working in a high stress environment.

Nice To Haves

In depth knowledge of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and the following Incident Command System (ICS) qualifications: ICS-100, ICS-200, and ICS-300.

Responsibilities

Serve as the central communications hub for WSF operations.
Coordinate communications between vessels, terminals, management, and support agencies.
Receive, assess, prioritize, and coordinate responses to operational issues and emergencies.
Operate telephone, radio, and electronic communication systems.
Coordinate emergency transportation for individuals in critical medical condition.
Manage operational disruptions and emergency events in accordance with the Safety Management System (SMS).
Monitor and support safe, reliable, and efficient ferry operations.
Liaise with local, state, and federal agencies on regulatory and emergency response matters.
Uphold WSF’s strategic priorities (Service Excellence, Improved Communication, and Empowered People) and values (Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate), ensuring they are embedded in WSF’s culture through leadership actions.