Boat Ramp Attendant

About the Department

The City of Danbury is seeking qualified candidates for the seasonal position of Boat Ramp Attendant at Candlewood Lake Park for the Summer 2026 season. Under the general supervision of the Waterfront Director(s), this position is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the public boat ramp, including the sale of seasonal boat passes, fee collection, public information services, parking enforcement, and aquatic invasive species (AIS) inspection. The Boat Ramp Attendant serves as the City's front-line representative at Candlewood Lake Park and is expected to deliver a high standard of customer service to all park visitors.

This position requires the ability to work independently with minimal supervision while exercising sound judgment in a dynamic, outdoor environment.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

The following duties are representative of the work performed in this position. Other duties may be assigned as needed.

Customer Service & Public Relations

• Greet the public in a courteous and professional manner upon arrival at the boat ramp
• Provide clear and accurate information regarding park rules, regulations, fees, hours of operation, and local boating guidelines
• Respond promptly and professionally to inquiries, complaints, and requests for assistance
• Represent the City of Danbury in a positive and service-oriented manner at all times

Fee Collection & Pass Sales

• Sell seasonal boat passes and collect daily launch fees from the public
• Accurately process transactions and issue receipts or passes in accordance with established procedures
• Maintain accurate records of daily sales, transactions, and pass issuances
• Safeguard all collected funds and remit revenue in accordance with City policy

Boat Ramp Operations & Parking Management

• Monitor and manage the flow of vehicle and trailer traffic to ensure safe and orderly use of the ramp and parking areas
• Enforce parking regulations and ramp use policies in a fair and consistent manner
• Assist with directing boaters as needed to maintain efficient ramp operations during periods of high demand
• Promptly report any damage, hazards, or maintenance needs to the appropriate supervisor

Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Inspection

• Conduct visual inspections of all boats and watercraft entering the ramp to ensure they are free of aquatic invasive species (AIS) in compliance with applicable state and local regulations
• Educate boaters on the importance of AIS prevention and proper boat decontamination practices
• Document and report any suspected AIS findings to the appropriate authority in a timely manner
• Remain current on AIS identification guidelines and inspection protocols through required training

Safety & Security

• Monitor the ramp area and surrounding park grounds to identify and address safety hazards
• Enforce park rules and regulations, including those related to alcohol, fire, noise, and disorderly conduct
• Contact appropriate law enforcement or emergency services as necessary in response to incidents or emergencies
• Maintain general awareness of conditions on and around Candlewood Lake and report safety concerns to a supervisor

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent, or currently enrolled in a secondary education program
• Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of hire
• Demonstrated ability to provide excellent customer service to a diverse public
• Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment with minimal supervision
• Reliable attendance and punctuality; availability to work weekends, holidays, and early/late shift hours
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Basic math skills sufficient for accurate cash handling and transaction processing
• Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions for extended periods
• Must be available to attend all mandatory pre-season training sessions (May 11–21, 2026)
• Must be available for Summer Season (Memorial Day through Labor Day)

Preferred Qualifications 

• Prior experience in a customer service, cashiering, or public-facing role
• Previous experience working in a park, marina, or outdoor recreation environment
• Familiarity with boating practices, water safety, and/or aquatic invasive species protocols
• Current CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain
• Bilingual communication skills are a plus

Physical Requirements 

This position requires extended periods of standing, walking, and working outdoors in various weather conditions, including heat, humidity, and direct sunlight. The Boat Ramp Attendant must be able to perform visual inspections of watercraft, communicate effectively with members of the public at varying distances, and maintain alertness throughout their assigned shift. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Position Duties

Application Instructions

Application Submission: Applications must be submitted online at www.danbury-ct.gov/employment. Qualified applicants must submit a completed application. Position open until filled.

Important Note:*Paper applications will not be accepted.* The application must be completed in its entirety. Omissions, false, misleading, or inaccurate information will result in the rejection of the application.

Contact Information: Please contact the Human Resources/Civil Service Department at (203) 797-4598 or humanresources@danbury-ct.gov if you need assistance or have general questions.

Equal Opportunity Employer: The City of Danbury will not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of sex, race, color, sexual orientation, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, childbirth or related conditions, national origin, ancestry, age, veteran status, or disability, except where it is a bona fide occupational qualification.

We encourage African Americans, Women, Hispanics, and other minorities who meet the minimum qualifications to apply. EEO/M/F/D/V

Minimum Qualifications

Employment Type: Seasonal (May through September) 

Reports To: Waterfront Director(s) & Recreation Director(s)

• Sunday through Saturday 8am-8pm
• Shift hours range between 8am and 8pm (earlier or later hours may be required based on operational need)

Pre-Season Training: Attendance at all required pre-season training sessions is mandatory. Training dates vary between May 11, 2026 and May 21, 2026. Specific dates will be provided upon selection.