Crew Member - Coniston

Summary

An amazing opportunity to spend this Summer operating and promoting a historic steam passenger ship, originally put in service in 1860, on one of England's most beautiful lakes. You will learn to operate a steam engine and welcome guests as they enjoy graceful tours of Coniston Water that introduced the Victorians to the Lake District. Marine or steam experience is useful, but primarily we are looking for people who are enthusiastic about history and the Lake District, and who like to engage with people. You will need to be reasonably fit in order to assist guests and load fuel.  
Interviews will be held on Wednesday 12th May.

What it's like to work here

You will join a small, friendly and professional team working five days per week. We start at 08:30 each day, firing-up the boiler, polishing and loading fuel. At 10:30, after a cup of tea, we leave the dock and commence our passenger service at 10:45. The vessel makes either 3 or 4 sailings per day depending on season. At the end of the day, we close Gondola down for the night, and finish work at either 1600 in low season or 1700 in high season. Occasionally you will be required to sail on evening charter sailings, and your rota will change slightly to cover for people on leave but we will always try to give 2 days off consecutively where possible.  
Please click here to find out more about this wonderful location.

What you'll be doing

There are 3 crew person roles 

• boatmaster 
• engineer  
• purser/deckhand.  

You will be required to train first as engineer and purser. You will initially learn to operate the steam machinery, to welcome guests, and handle bookings, tickets and payments. Once proficient, you will also be given the opportunity to gain experience as helmsman, which may eventually lead to certification as a licenced boatmaster. Above all, you will be making part of a tightly-knit crew and talking to our guests. We support each other, and interact with people of all backgrounds to amaze them with the operation of this historic vessel and explain her significance as an engineering and social landmark. Take a look at our Tripadvisor record to be inspired to help us continue this work.

Who we're looking for

You’ve a smile and a story for everyone. That’s something all our people have in common. You’ll have a good level of general education and be reasonably fit. Marine or steam experience is useful, but not essential, although you must be confident working with machinery and close to deep water. You’ll have excellent communication skills and have a passion for providing the highest levels of customer care. You may wish to start, or continue, a career in a marine role. If you’re used to selling and handling cash, that’s even better.

The package

The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.

Wherever you’re from, and whatever your background, we want to hear from you – and it doesn’t matter if you’re jam first, cream first, or even if you don’t like scones at all. Everyone is welcome.

Benefits for working at the National Trust include:

• Flexible working whenever possible

• Free parking at most locations

• Free entry to our properties for you, a guest and your children (under 18)

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.