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Launch Operator

Larchmont Yacht Club
Larchmont, New York
Seasonal Position | April through Early November
Hourly Rate: $25.00 to $30.00 per hour
Reports to: Marine Facilities Director

About Larchmont Yacht Club and the Marina

Founded in 1880, Larchmont Yacht Club is one of the most respected yacht clubs in the United States. Located on an 11-acre waterfront campus along Long Island Sound, just 16 miles from New York City, the Club has a long tradition of sailing excellence, competitive racing, and active member boating.

The marina and mooring field are central to the Club's waterfront experience. Throughout the season, members rely on the launch service for safe, efficient transportation between the docks, moorings, and anchorage areas. During regattas, social gatherings, and peak boating weekends, the marina becomes one of the most active areas of the Club.

Launch Operators play a highly visible role on the waterfront. They serve as trusted professionals responsible for both safe vessel operation and exceptional member service. The position requires technical boating knowledge, strong judgment on the water, and the ability to interact confidently with members and guests in a professional club environment.

Position Summary

The Launch Operator is responsible for operating the Club's launch vessels and supporting daily marina operations. This role provides safe transportation for members and guests to and from their boats while maintaining high standards of seamanship, safety, and service.

Working closely with the Marine Facilities Director and waterfront team, Launch Operators monitor launch service requests, operate vessels in the mooring field, and maintain the readiness and cleanliness of launch equipment and facilities. The position requires a valid U.S. Coast Guard captain's license, strong situational awareness, and the ability to operate vessels safely in a busy harbor environment.

This position is well suited for licensed maritime professionals who enjoy working outdoors, operating vessels regularly, and being part of a professional waterfront team at one of the region's most respected yacht clubs.

Key Responsibilities

Launch Operations and Member Service

• Operate club launch vessels safely and professionally in accordance with all U.S. Coast Guard regulations and club policies
• Transport members and guests to and from their moored vessels in a timely and courteous manner
• Assist passengers safely during boarding and docking procedures
• Provide a welcoming and service-oriented experience for members and guests

Waterfront Operations

• Conduct daily inspections of launch vessels before service begins
• Complete daily operational logs, safety checklists, and inspection reports
• Monitor the mooring field and surrounding waterfront areas during launch operations
• Assist with dockside support when needed, including gangways and marina access points

Communication and Safety

• Maintain proper VHF radio protocol and monitor launch channels throughout the shift
• Respond promptly to member requests for launch service
• Demonstrate awareness of changing weather, water conditions, and harbor traffic
• Follow established emergency response procedures including medical emergencies, severe weather, and man overboard situations

Facility and Equipment Care

• Maintain the cleanliness and readiness of launch vessels, docks, gangways, and launch shed areas
• Assist with raising and lowering club officer flags and remain aware of officer presence on the grounds
• Secure vessels and equipment at the close of daily operations

Required Qualifications

• Valid U.S. Coast Guard Limited Master's License or higher
• Ability to pass pre-employment and testing requirements in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations
• Strong knowledge of safe vessel handling and navigation in a harbor or mooring field environment
• Professional communication skills and a courteous service-oriented approach
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions on the water
• Availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays during the boating season

Preferred Experience

• Previous experience operating launches, water taxis, or marina service vessels
• Background working at yacht clubs, marinas, sailing centers, or waterfront operations
• Familiarity with VHF radio communication and harbor traffic coordination
• Strong situational awareness and ability to manage multiple launch requests efficiently

Work Environment and Schedule

• Outdoor waterfront work environment with exposure to changing weather conditions
• Active position requiring standing, lifting, and frequent vessel movement
• Typical shifts range from 8 to 10 hours depending on launch demand and seasonal activity
• Evening, weekend, and holiday coverage required during peak boating periods

Why Join the Larchmont Yacht Club Waterfront Team

Working at Larchmont Yacht Club offers the opportunity to operate on one of the most active and respected waterfronts on Long Island Sound. Launch Operators become an essential part of the Club's marina operations and play a direct role in ensuring that members and guests enjoy a safe and seamless boating experience.

You will work alongside an experienced marine facilities team in a professional and supportive environment while spending the season on the water at one of the East Coast's premier yacht clubs.

If you are a licensed captain who takes pride in seamanship, professionalism, and service, we encourage you to apply and join our waterfront team for the upcoming season.