Job Description
Boat Operator I/II - Public Works is listed by County of Humboldt. The County of Humboldt Public Works Department is hiring a Boat Operator I/II to provide river passage at low-water crossings that become impassable to motor vehicles during high water seasons.
When river levels are low, the role shifts to road maintenance work, including breaking and removing surfaces, operating heavy equipment, and performing traffic control. This full-time position is based in Loleta, California, and offers a salary range of $42,827 to $60,715 per year.
The role is ideal for candidates who are comfortable with both ferry operations and manual labor in a public works setting.
Salary & Compensation
Salary: $42,827 - $60,715 per year.
Qualification
Candidates must have experience in boat operations and road maintenance. The position requires the ability to operate ferry boats safely during high water and perform heavy physical labor during low water seasons.
- Experience operating ferry boats or similar watercraft in river conditions.
- Ability to perform heavy physical labor, including digging, shoveling, hauling, and loading materials.
- Experience operating heavy trucks and equipment such as jackhammers, pavement breakers, concrete saws, and tampers.
- Knowledge of road maintenance techniques including asphalt work, sand sealing, and surface preparation.
- Ability to perform traffic control duties, including setting up barricades, warning signs, and flagging.
- Valid driver's license and ability to obtain any required endorsements for boat operation.
- Willingness to work in varying weather conditions and during emergency situations.
- Ability to follow safety protocols and use personal protective equipment.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Operate ferry boats to provide river passage at low-water crossings during high water seasons.
- Perform road maintenance tasks during low water seasons, including breaking and removing surfaces, digging, shoveling, hauling, and loading materials.
- Operate heavy equipment such as jackhammers, pavement breakers, concrete saws, spaders, and tampers.
- Shovel, rake, roll, and iron asphalt; spray oil on surfaces.
- Operate a variety of heavy trucks for material transport and road work.
- Perform sand sealing of surfaces and prepare for overlays.
- Clean up work sites upon completion of jobs.
- Work at rock production sites as needed.
- Perform traffic monitoring and control, including distributing barricades, warning signs, safety cones, and flagging vehicles.
- Install and maintain road signs and safety devices.
Conditions & Requirements
- Must be able to pass a background check and drug screening.
- Possess a valid California driver's license or ability to obtain one.
- Must be physically capable of performing heavy manual labor.
- Willingness to work overtime, weekends, and holidays as needed.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Ability to work in outdoor conditions including heat, cold, rain, and mud.
- Must comply with all safety regulations and use required personal protective equipment.
Benefits
- Competitive salary range of $42,827 - $60,715 per year.
- Full-time employment with stable government position.
- Opportunity to work in a dynamic public works environment.
- Potential for career advancement within the County of Humboldt.
- Training and certification opportunities for boat operation and heavy equipment.
How You Will Be Evaluated
- Application review to ensure minimum qualifications are met.
- Supplemental questionnaire evaluation.
- Oral interview or practical skills assessment.
- Reference and background check.
- Conditional job offer subject to drug screening and physical exam.
Required Documents
- Completed online application through the official application portal.
- Supplemental questionnaire responses.
- Resume (optional but recommended).
- Copy of valid driver's license.
- Any relevant certifications (e.g., boat operator license, CDL).
How to Apply
- To apply, visit the County of Humboldt's career portal on the official application portal. Create an account or, complete the online application and supplemental questions, and attach any required documents. Ensure your application is submitted before the closing date of August 17, 2026. Review all requirements carefully and provide accurate information.
Additional Information
- This position is classified as Boat Operator I/II and is part of the Public Works Department.
- The work location is Loleta, CA, with field assignments throughout Humboldt County.
- Seasonal duties shift between boat operations (high water) and road maintenance (low water).
- Applicants must be available to start immediately after hiring process.
- The County of Humboldt is an equal opportunity employer.
- Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
- For questions, contact the Human Resources Department at (707) 445-7266.
About Company
The County of Humboldt is a local government entity serving the northern California coast. Its Public Works Department is responsible for maintaining county roads, bridges, and ferry operations to ensure safe transportation for residents and visitors.
This role directly supports the department's mission by providing critical river crossings during high water and maintaining road infrastructure year-round. Working for Humboldt County offers stable public employment with opportunities to serve the community in a scenic and rural environment.
County of Humboldt is named as the hiring organisation for the Boat Operator I/II - Public Works post.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common applicant questions about this position, eligibility and the application process.