As a small operation, we employ less than 40 employees who focus on providing customers with safe and quality transportation between our Hollis Port and Ketchikan Port. Our crew consists of Vessel and Shoreside Employees who manage the everyday operation of our vessels, the M/V Stikine and the M/V Prince of Wales.
As leaders in the marine transportation industry, IFA employees are responsible for instilling an atmosphere that riding the ferry is a pleasure, not just a need. To that end, every IFA employee is responsible for overall passenger safety and satisfaction. All necessary steps must be taken to correct or to report conditions that could endanger passenger safety or satisfaction on and off the vessel, including IFA vehicles, access ramps, offices, terminals, and terminal grounds.
The IFA’s success is built on recognition of the skills and efforts made by each employee. Every employee and every job is essential to fulfilling our mission to the people who trust and rely on us. It is the primary goal of the IFA and yours to live up to our mission statement and continue as a leader in the marine transportation industry in SE Alaska. This goal is achieved as a team through dedicated hard work and commitment from every employee. Our policy is to work with all members of the IFA team in a fair and courteous manner and treat each team member with dignity and respect.
IFA is an equal-opportunity employer.
CURRENT JOB OPENINGS
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Job Title:On-Call Relief Crew Member
Location: Hollis/POW
Pay Range:$18.38
Immediate Supervisors: Master, Operations Manager
Combination of Shoreside and Vessel
Must be available to work all days of the week on short notice.
Relief Deckhand shifts are 6:30 AM – 6:15 PM & Relief Night Watch shifts are 6:15 PM to 6:30 AM
Summary: This position covers two different job positions.
On-Call Relief Deckhand will be responsible for: the primary enforcement of security in port and while the vessel is underway, the safety and satisfaction of passengers onboard IFA vessels while in port and while underway, maintaining cabin and main deck area safely and cleanly, emergency response as directed by Mate or Master, and standard line handling and watch duties.
On-Call Relief Nightwatch will provide security watch over the entire vessel, maintain the IFA vessel security plan, tend lines, clean the vessel, and maintain safe conditions in all passenger and other IFA-related traffic, including access ramps and all areas surrounding the terminal.
As leaders in the Marine Transportation Industry, IFA employees are responsible for instilling an atmosphere in passengers that riding the ferry is a pleasure and not just a need. To that end, every IFA employee is responsible for overall passenger safety and satisfaction. All necessary steps must be taken to correct conditions or to report conditions that could endanger passenger safety or satisfaction in any manner on and off the vessels. This includes IFA vessels, vehicles, access ramps, offices, terminals, and terminal grounds.
Pre-employment drug screens as well as random drug testing are a requirement for all DOT personnel with safety-sensitive security duties.
Specific Duties
Deckhand
- Enforcement of Vessel Security Plan (VSP) including security screening for passengers vehicles, conducting security screening for passengers and vehicles, conducting security patrols, and detecting, deterring, and reporting any security threats, breaches, and incidents to Master or Mate
- A front-line crew member for customer service including: assisting passengers with boarding and disembarking the vessel, answering questions, gaining access to the medical room, minor dispute resolution, and assisting with luggage as requested
- Participate in all drills and trainings
- Perform tasks necessary to keep the vessel clean, safe, and in good order including but not limited to washing vessel windows (inside and outside), cleaning and supplying restrooms, cleaning dayrooms, storage areas, gear lockers, car deck, and passenger cabins, empty trash receptacles, and replace liners
- Assist with vessel line handling during arrival and departure from the dock, which includes lifting/pulling up to 70 pounds of weight in various weather conditions without assistance or supervision
- assist with maintenance of safety and other related deck equipment as assigned by Mate, including line repair and splicing
- Fulfills other duties as assigned by the Master or the Mate
- Removing snow and other debris from walkways surrounding terminals
- Salting walkways and all IFA-related foot traffic areas
Night Watch
- Maintain no visitor policy during night watch, unless they are IFA employees or contracted staff
- Make sure all aprons, gangways, hatches, and doors are secure from non-employee entry. Making frequent rounds to all spaces of the vessel to maintain security checks, machinery checks, bilge level checks, or anything out of the ordinary
- Keep watch on all mooring lines for chaffing, tension, slack, and wraps on bollards and cleats
- Clean vessel as directed, including, but not limited to: decks, windows, restrooms, tables, settees, chairs, store rooms, lockers, counters, desks, walls, and stairwells. Make sure all floors are clean and dry before passengers board to prevent slip and fall hazards. The vessel must be clean before the morning run
- Removing snow and other debris from walkways surrounding the terminal
- Salt walkways and all IFA-related foot traffic areas
- Clean grounds keeping equipment after use and storing properly. Maintain storage areas
- Notify the Terminal Manager when supplies are running low
- Call the Operations Manager if a serious problem exists or may arise and assistance is needed
- Assist the Operations Manager with any maintenance duties during night watch, including, but not limited to: stocking, inventory, maintenance and/or repairs to machinery and auxiliary equipment
- Other duties as assigned by the Operations Manager
Knowledge & Abilities
Deckhand
- Knowledge of vessel security procedures as they apply to this position
- Knowledge of maintenance procedures for vehicle/passenger deck and passenger cabin
- Knowledge of IFA firefighting, MOB and abandon ship procedures
- Knowledge of the location, function, and operation of all normal and emergency equipment in the deck department
- Knowledge of appropriate use of personal protection and safety equipment (ear plugs, safety glasses, etc.)
- General knowledge of nautical terms, commands, and signals; principal knots, splices, and hitches
- Ability to interact with customers, and fellow employees in a professional and courteous manner
- Ability to use hand and power tools for cleaning and general maintenance;
- Ability to clear away, lower, and handle life rafts, MEC, and rescue boats under oars or motor
- Ability to communicate effectively, in English, both written and oral;
- Ability to climb and work on rigging and masts for such repairs as replacing navigation bulbs
- Ability to lift and feed lines weighing up to 70lbs
- Ability to comprehend instructions and perform job duties under time constraints and in emergencies
- Ability to work long hours, frequently in harsh weather conditions
Night Watch
- Thorough knowledge of all cleaning procedures, supplies, and tools (both electrical and hand), know all cleaning agents being used, and protective clothing required
- Must understand mooring and line handling, knots, rigging, winches, capstans, and related deck gear; ability to move quickly and understand nautical terms related to mooring and lines
- Knowledge of vessel security procedures and emergency contact procedures
- General knowledge of machinery spaces and ability to recognize a problem if one exists; knowledge of problem escalation procedures
- Knowledge of lighting and electrical outlets throughout the vessel
- Ability to recognize unsafe ground conditions and determine the best method to correct
- Must be able to understand, speak, and write in English
- Must be self-motivated and can work efficiently and effectively with minimum supervision
Required Certificates & Credentials
- Transportation Workers Identification Credentials (TWIC) within 30 days of Hire
- Current First Aid/CPR Certificate
- Valid Alaska Drivers License
Uniform Requirements
All IFA Vessel Crew Members must be well groomed and are required to wear IFA uniform at all times during the loading and unloading of the vessel and while the vessel is underway. IFA Uniform consists of black pants and an IFA shirt, vest or jacket, and hat (optional). Uniforms must be neat and clean, and worn in a professional manner that clearly indicates IFA Crew Member.
Compensation & Benefits
As an On-Call position benefits are limited. Once the eligibility requirements have been met, On-Call Crew may receive IFA Travel Benefits.
Deckhand Shifts are overtime-exempt positions for 12 hours at a base rate of pay.
Night Watch Shifts are 8 hours of regular pay and 4 hours of overtime.
APPLY HERE
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Job Title: Mate / Relief Master
Location: Hollis, Prince of Wales Island
Schedule: 4 days on / 4 days off – 12-hour shifts
Pay Range:-
Mate: $32.00 – $41.00 DOE
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Relief Master (Captain): $42.00 – $52.00 DOE
About the Role
The Inter-Island Ferry Authority (IFA) is seeking dedicated maritime professionals to join our team as Mate or Relief Master. These positions are critical leadership roles aboard IFA vessels, providing safe navigation, strong crew leadership, and ensuring the safety and satisfaction of every passenger who travels with us.
As part of a close-knit crew, you’ll work a steady 4-on/4-off schedule, gain experience in the challenging and beautiful waters of Southeast Alaska, and play a key role in providing a reliable transportation link that supports both residents and visitors.
Why Join the IFA?
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Competitive Pay: DOE pay range of $32–$41 (Mate) and $42–$52 (Relief Master).
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Full Benefits: Vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay, health and life insurance, SBS, optional supplemental life and disability insurance, PERS retirement program, and IFA travel benefits.
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Work-Life Balance: Predictable rotation schedule (4 days on / 4 days off).
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Community Impact: Be part of an organization that connects communities, supports local industries, and provides an essential service to Southeast Alaska.
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Professional Growth: Leadership responsibilities with opportunities to serve as Officer in Charge of Navigational Watch or as Relief Master.
Key Responsibilities
Mate
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Serve as the second in command, assuming command if the Master is incapacitated.
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Assist with safe navigation of the vessel; stand as Officer in Charge of Navigational Watch (OICNW).
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Supervise and direct deck crew during departures, landings, and loading/unloading.
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Monitor and maintain safety and lifesaving equipment.
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Ensure compliance with state and federal security and operational requirements.
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Act as first responder in medical and emergency situations.
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Promote a positive, safety-first work culture onboard.
Relief Master (Captain)
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Serve as the highest-ranking officer aboard IFA vessels.
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Safely navigate in diverse weather and tidal conditions, day or night.
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Lead all pre-sail checklists, departures, and landings.
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Ensure compliance with all USCG and CFR requirements, drills, and training.
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Oversee vessel logs, security plan, and ADA compliance.
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Lead and motivate crew while ensuring discipline, safety, and professionalism.
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Act as Vessel Security Officer and ADA Complaint Resolution Official.
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Review crew payroll and assist with evaluations in coordination with the Operations Manager.
Qualifications & Credentials
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Required USCG License: Master of Motor Vessels of 100 Gross Tons or Larger Upon Inland Waters.
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Vessel Security Officer (VSO) Endorsement.
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Radar Observer Endorsement.
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FCC Marine Radio Operator Permit.
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TWIC Card (required).
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Current First Aid/CPR Certification.
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Valid State Driver’s License.
Knowledge & Skills
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Deep knowledge of Southeast Alaska waterways, tides, currents, and weather conditions.
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Strong understanding of federal/state maritime security and vessel operations requirements.
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Ability to lead and command crew during both routine operations and emergencies.
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Excellent communication and leadership skills, fostering professionalism and positive morale.
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Self-motivated, organized, and capable of working without direct supervision.
Uniform & Professional Standards
IFA crew members represent both our vessels and our community. All crew are expected to maintain a professional appearance and wear the IFA uniform (black pants with IFA shirt/vest/jacket, optional hat).
Ready to Apply?
This is more than a maritime position, it’s a chance to serve Southeast Alaska while advancing your maritime career in a supportive, professional environment. If you are ready to step into a leadership role with steady work, strong benefits, and an unmatched view from the bridge, we encourage you to apply today.
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BENEFITS:
As a Political Subdivision of the State of Alaska, the Inter-Island Ferry Authority offers benefits similar to any other department of the State. And we want to help our employees get the most out of the benefits that we offer. Benefits may differ for On-Call and Part-Time Positions. Some of our benefits include:
- Basic Life and AD&D Insurance (Employer)
- Optional Group Long/Short-Term Disability, Supplemental & Select Life (Employee)
- Health Insurance, with Vision, Dental, and Audio (Employer) with optional Dependent & Spouse Coverage (Employee)
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for health care or dependent care expenses (Employee)
- Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) Contributions (Employer/Employee) After Probationary Period
- Alaska Supplemental Annuity Plan in Lieu of Contributions to Social Security (Employer/Employee)
- Optional Enrollment in Alaska Deferred Compensation Program (Employee)
- Vacation and Sick Leave
- Space Available Pass Travel for You and Qualifying Family Members, and Qualifying Vehicles
- Plus-One Pass Travel
