The Yarmouth Area Industrial Commission (YAIC) is currently looking to fill the full-time position of Wharfinger for the Port of Yarmouth. See full position description below.

To apply, send your résumé to:

[email protected]

Deadline to apply is Friday October 2, 2026

Salary: $60,000 per year The Wharfinger is responsible for the safe, efficient, and orderly operation of the Port of Yarmouth's wharf facilities. The position coordinates vessel berthing activities, manages wharf usage, maintains positive relationships with harbour users, oversees routine facility maintenance, and ensures the safe and effective operation of port infrastructure.

The Port has three working wharves with berth space –

- Old government wharf
- Marginal wharf
- Lobster Rock wharf

The port is a home port to a fleet of approximately 2 dozen vessels plus transient vessels and other activity. The fleet expands during the summer inshore herring fishery months. The position requires reasonable availability outside regular working hours to respond to operational issues, vessel movements, emergencies, and other port-related matters. This position is also responsible for light maintenance duties at the wharves and medical centres owned by the Yarmouth Area Industrial Commission.

Responsibilities

· Monitor the condition of wharf infrastructure and report safety hazards, environmental concerns, and maintenance deficiencies

· Maintain accurate records of vessel movements, berth assignments, shore power usage, berthage charges, and maintenance activities

· Liaise with government agencies, contractors, service providers, vessel owners, and harbour users

· Monitor and control access to port facilities as required





· Assist with annual budgeting by identifying maintenance and capital repair requirements

· Oversee and coordinate contractors performing maintenance, repair, or construction activities on port properties

· Conduct regular inspections of wharf facilities, equipment, utilities, lighting, and safety infrastructure

· Respond to after-hours operational issues, emergencies, and urgent vessel accommodation requirements

· Provide directions to herring fleet operators who place watering boxes on the wharf decks on a reasonable basis

· Facilitate the placement of lobster pots on the decks at the beginning of each lobster season

· Manage wharf deck traffic

· Resolve disputes

· Answer and respond to phone calls

· Light maintenance and repairs for the 3 wharves as well as the Harbour South Medical Center and A.M. Clark Health Center (Pubnico)

· Some groundskeeping duties - mowing, snow removal on walkways and sidewalks, cleaning

Qualifications

· High school diploma or equivalent; combination of education and relevant marine or fisheries experience may be considered

· Experience in dealing with fishing vessels and wharf environments

· Familiarity with the fishing industry in terms of vessels and equipment used, the terminology, the physical characteristics and limitations of existing infrastructure, including the harbour itself





· Knowledge of occupational health and safety practices applicable to marine and waterfront operations

· A strong but calm and assertive disposition

· Conflict resolution skills

· Ability to manage basic administrative duties, such as: handling phone calls, procuring goods and services, accounting for and preparing the information necessary to invoice the users, seeking out quotations for certain procurements and arranging for the work to be done, troubleshooting electrical and maintenance issues

· Mechanical aptitude and ability to operate and maintain basic tools and grounds maintenance equipment.

· Strong organizational and record-keeping skills

· Basic computer proficiency, including email and Microsoft Word and Excel

· Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

· First Aid/CPR certification would be considered an asset

· Experience in marine operations, port management, fisheries, or a related industry would be considered an asset

· Valid Nova Scotia Class 5 driver's license

Working Conditions

· Work is performed primarily outdoors in varying weather conditions

· Regular exposure to marine environments, including wet, slippery, and uneven surfaces

· Occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling of materials and equipment

· Requirement to work flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as operationally required

· Position requires availability to respond to urgent situations outside regular working hours

· Frequent interaction with vessel operators, contractors, and members of the public

Pay: $60,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person

📌 Wharfinger (Yarmouth)
🏢 Municipality of Yarmouth
📍 Yarmouth