BROOKLYN — With ferry service planned for all of the boroughs, a workforce program is preparing to train locals for one of the city's "hottest" new gigs: deckhand.
The Center for Economic and Workforce Development at Kingsborough Community College is offering a 12-day "express training" for aspiring sailors, starting later this year.
Participants who pay a $300 non-refundable fee will receive training, CPR certification and job placement assistance at one of the city's many ferry companies — such as Hornblower, which will operate the new Citywide Ferry Service starting in 2017.
Would-be ferryboat deckhands are also required to get the TSA's Transportation Worker Identification Credential, which costs $128, requires passing a background check and is mandatory for many vessels and ships. Applicants must be able to pass a physical and a drug test, officials said.
The city is expected to launch its Citywide Ferry Service next summer, creating more than 150 jobs, officials said.
Hornblower, which was selected as the operator of the service earlier this year, will post its available positions on its website, the company said.
For more information on the program, visit the center's website.
