Boatswain

Canadian Armed Forces; British Columbia; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking military organization as a Boatswain, where you will be at the forefront of seamanship and naval operations. This role offers a unique blend of responsibilities, from operating and maintaining shipboard equipment to leading demolitions operations. Experience the thrill of working at sea and the camaraderie of military life, all while developing your skills in navigation and leadership. Whether you choose the Regular Force or the Primary Reserve Force, this position promises adventure, challenges, and the opportunity to make a significant impact in a vital role within the naval community.

Qualifications

• Completion of Grade 10 or equivalent secondary education is required.
• Strong seamanship and cargo handling skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain shipboard equipment for cargo handling and personnel transfers.
• Plan and lead demolitions operations in naval environments.
• Assist in training and supervising deck crews.

Skills

Seamanship

Cargo Handling

Navigation

Demolitions Operations

Leadership

Education

Grade 10 or Secondary 4

Job description

Non-Commissioned Member | Full Time, Part Time

As a member of the military, Boatswains are the seamanship specialists of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). They are responsible for the safe operation and maintenance of the ship’s rigging, shipboard cargo handling equipment, boats, and small craft.

The range of their responsibilities and supervisory duties is wider than in most other seagoing occupations. Their primary responsibilities are to:

• Operate and maintain shipboard equipment associated with cargo handling and inter-ship transfers of personnel, fuel, and materiel while at sea.
• Operate and maintain the ship’s equipment for such tasks as anchoring, towing, launching and recovering boats, and surface rescue operations.
• Operate and navigate small craft in all waters.
• Perform required tasks with ship’s rigging and lifesaving equipment.
• Organize the storage, training, maintenance, and use of small arms, demolitions, and ammunition.
• Prepare and lead demolitions operations in the naval environment.
• Plan, organize, and direct ceremonial procedures.
• Assist and supervise deck crews in maintaining the ship and its equipment.
• Coordinate watch keeping duties at sea and in harbour.

Work Environment

The Boatswain is truly “the professional sailor,” experiencing the unique adventures and challenges that come with work at sea, such as open deck surfaces and a rotating shift or watch system. Ashore, Boatswains normally work as instructors training other naval personnel. Junior Boatswains spend time working outside their occupation performing general duties such as cleaning, painting, working in the cafeteria, standing sentry duty, storing the ship, and acting as members of the Naval Boarding Party.

If you choose a career in the Regular Force, upon completion of all required training, you will be assigned to your first base. While there is some flexibility with regards to postings (relocations), accommodations can’t always be made, and therefore, you can likely expect to move at some point in your career. However, if you decide to join the Primary Reserve Force, you will do so through a specific Reserve unit. Outside of training, your chosen Reserve unit will be your workplace on a part-time basis, and you will not be obligated to relocate to a different base. As part of the Primary Reserve Force, you typically work one night per week and some weekends as a minimum with possibilities of full-time employment.

The minimum required education to apply for this occupation is the completion of the provincial requirements for Grade 10 or Secondary 4 in Quebec or equivalent secondary school education.