Seasonal Assistant Lock / Bridge Keeper – Ref ALKSS/001056

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE:Relief Bridge Keeper / Assist Lock Keeper,

Seasonal Part Time

WEEKLY PAY:€511.25gross (pro rata)

REPORTS TO:Lock Keeper, Foreman

LOCATION(S):Athlone and Poolboy Locks

Victoria Lock and Portumna Bridge, Sarsfield

SUMMARY OF ROLE

Waterways Ireland wishes to recruit temporary seasonal staff to assist with lock and bridge operations on the Shannon Navigation at various locations. The successful applicant will provide assistance with the operation, maintenance and upkeep of the navigation locks / sluices and lifting bridges over the summer period. This is a part time role, 21-24 hours per week.

KEY FUNCTIONS

  • Operation of lock gatesand lifting bridges to assist vessels moving on the navigation and through lock chambers
  • Taking and giving of ropes from and to boat users to assist passage of boats
  • Collection of fees and recording / maintaining boat register / log
  • Assisting members of the public
  • Recording and reporting of water levels and rainfall data
  • Maintain and keep clean lockhouse/bridgehouse
  • Actively carry out maintenance work in the area around the lock
  • Operation of sluices and lifting bridges (where appropriate)
  • Implementation of Waterways Ireland’s Health and Safety policy
  • Supporting the role of the Lock Keeper
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • To provide assistance to boats to move through the navigation locks and bridges in a safe and enjoyable manner
  • To assist in the task of preserving and protecting the integrity of Waterways Ireland in the area to which you are assigned
  • To assist in maintaining the areas to which you are assigned in a safe, clean and tidy condition
  • To report to the Lock keeper / Foreman on all works, conditions of site, safety and security of each site
  • To attend training courses as directed and assist in the management of Health and Safety at work
  • To report and liaise with the Lock Keeper / Foreman
  • To assist in all other duties as may be directed by the Lock Keeper / Foreman

The above list is not exhaustive and you may be required to take on other duties and responsibilities for the effective and efficient performance of your role.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

  • Possess good communication skills
  • Possess basic numeracy / literary skills
  • Be aware of the Health and Safety issues associated with working near water
  • Experience in maintaining internal and external work areas

DESIRABLE CRITERIA

  • Be familiar with lock / sluice / lifting bridge operations
  • Experience of working in a water-based environment
  • Experience / knowledge of operating a boat
  • Be aware of the Health and Safety issues associated with boating on inland waters
  • Knowledge of the Shannon Navigation Bye-laws (1992)
  • Experience working under limited supervision
  • Valid Safepass

CONTACTS WITH:

  • Staff of Waterways Ireland
  • Members of the public
  • Waterway users

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

  • Working on and around deep water

Seasonal Lock Keepers are required to assist in the operation of locks from May to September. A staff rota is operated for June, July and August, normally Monday, Tuesday, Saturdayand Sunday (Week 1) and Wednesday, Thursday and Friday (Week 2). The appointed staff must be available to work to this rota. Weekly hours vary from 28-40 depending on rota. Ad-hoc days may be offered in May and September, depending on demand.

EXCEPT FOR LIMERICK LOCK WHICH WILL BE OPERATED IN ACCORDANCE WITH TIDAL CONSTRAINTS AND A TIDAL OPENING SCHEDULE

WORKING HOURS

Seasonal staffare required to assist in the operation of locks and bridges on the basis of flexible rota.

Relief Bridge / lock keepers will work at least 21 hours per week over 2 days, Monday to Friday.

Assistant lock keepers will work at least 24 hours per week over Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

LUNCH BREAK:One hour daily

Additional ad-hoc hours may be offered in both posts depending on demand.

Short Listing Process

A shortlist of candidates for interviews will be prepared on the basis of information contained in the application form. It is essential that all applicants demonstrate on their application form how and the extent to which they satisfy each of the Essential Criteria and the extent to which they satisfy the Desirable criteria specified. In the event of a large volume of applicants, testing may also be used to form a shortlist. Candidates will be notified should this be required.

This competition will create a merit based panel which will last 12 months. Opportunities which arise over the next 12 months will be offered to successful applicants in order of merit

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