DECKHAND 

Nanaimo

The opportunity 

From directing traffic to supporting essential safety procedures, this is a hands-on, safety-focused role where no two days are the same, and every task contributes to a safe and smooth sailing. 

The role 

Reporting to the Chief Officer Deckhands are responsible for:  

• Directing vehicle and foot passenger traffic on the vessel, and to and from shore to the vessel 

• Communicating in person and or by radio with ships’ officers and ticketing staff 

• Checking propane tanks are shut off, and tagged 

• Securing car decks and foot passenger gates prior to departure 

• Carrying out under direction general ships’ husbandry, cleaning and maintenance duties of the interior and exterior of the vessel including but not limited to garbage pickup, cleaning mess rooms, stairwells and interior windows; pushing, pulling and lifting heavy stores; chipping and scrapping surfaces; and painting 

• Patrolling the vessel to watch for unusual situations, potential safety hazards and passenger compliance with regulations; standing fog, bridge or anchor watch; steering the vessel under the direction of a deck officer when serving as a quartermaster; and keeping a constant lookout for marine traffic and navigational hazards 

• Performing additional duties as assigned which may include standby anchors during docking; participating in fire and boat drills; performing emergency duties; conducting checkoffs for self-contained breathing apparatus and firefighting; doing vehicle counts; assisting with annual refit and life raft exchange; spreading salt; splicing rope; taking inventory; and changing navigation lights 

What you bring to the team 

This position requires Marine Emergency duties training (STCW Basic Safety – MED A1 and MED B2 and Proficiency in Survival Craft - MED B1) and a valid Seafarer's Medical Certificate. You are able to respond safely and effectively in emergency situations, direct and control vehicles and passengers, and apply safe work practices and seamanship. The role also requires the physical ability to climb ladders, handle ship’s lines, and move heavy objects. 

Preference may be shown to applicants with a Bridge Watch rating or higher certificate.  

Join us! 

If this sounds like your next great career move, please submit your cover letter and resume by August 16, 2026.

"We sail to serve and connect the people and the coast of BC”  

At BC Ferries, our people are at the heart of delivering safe and reliable service along 1,600 km of coastline. Every day, we connect communities and move tens of thousands of passengers and vehicles across our 25 routes through the dedication, expertise and hard work of our teams. Guided by a shared commitment to safety, service, inclusion, and local commitment, we offer meaningful work, opportunities for growth, and the chance to make a positive impact. Whether you work onboard our vessels, in our terminals or behind the scenes, you'll play an important role in connecting people, supporting communities, and keeping coastal BC moving. 

We support employment equity and diversity in the workplace, and we encourage applications from all qualified individuals including women, visible minorities, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, persons of diverse sexual orientation, gender identity or expression (LGBTQ2S+), and others who reflect our ever-changing workplace. 

We appreciate the interest of all applicants; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.