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- Tasks: Lead and inspire volunteers while ensuring the safety of our lifeboat operations.
- Company: Join the RNLI, dedicated to saving lives at sea.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 26 days annual leave, outstanding pension scheme, and life assurance.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Must have maritime experience and relevant qualifications for operating vessels.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 ÂŁ per year.
About us
Our purpose is simple: to save lives at sea. 24 hours a day, every day, RNLI lifesavers are ready to launch to the rescue. Thames Lifeboats continue to make a huge difference to the safety of people living in the Capital. We’re looking for a Commander to join our Lifeboat Station at Chiswick. To be part of this team, you’ll need to keep a cool head and be confident making decisions under stressful situations, to lead and inspire our volunteers. The safety of the crew is your responsibility and whether you launch or not will be your call. Upholding the high standards of the RNLI and the smooth, day-to-day running of the station will also be under your command.
The Benefits
- Salary - Grade E
- 26 days’ annual leave plus Bank Holidays (pro rata for this role)
- Outstanding pension scheme
- Life assurance
Your role
As Thames Commander you will be responsible for the operational effectiveness and safety of the lifeboat, people and working environment whilst you are on command duty. You will carry out command duties, leadership and support duties both afloat and ashore, including working within the community. Role also includes:
- Proactively supporting the safe and effective lifesaving service in line with the requirements of Line 1 assurance
- Conducting scheduled Planned Maintenance and repairs ensuring that all lifesaving assets are maintained to a high standard in line with RNLI policy and procedures whilst also ensuring that the lifeboat station is also kept maintained to a high standard
- Adhering to and promoting compliance with all QSHE policies and procedures, ensuring instructions issued by the RNLI and Station Manager are carried out
- Training, assessing and developing station volunteers in their relevant development plans to ensure they are ready and safe to respond to incidents whilst ensuring your own competencies and qualifications are maintained
- Involvement with Water Safety, assisting Water Safety Teams within the local community and within South East area 1 by contributing to the Community Lifesaving Plan, delivering interventions, education and advice to various groups and individuals using the RNLI (F)RISE model.
- Building effective relationships and supporting others around the station and create an open and truly inclusive environment for all staff, volunteers and supporters by consistently demonstrating the RNLI Values
About you
As a Thames Commander, “Rules of the Road”, navigation, seamanship and handling very fast vessels up to 15 metres in length will all be familiar territory. You will need to hold a relevant certificate of competence and be familiar with local waters. To be considered, you will need to be able to demonstrate the following:
- The ability to lead, motivate and bring out the best in our volunteer crew and staff
- Qualified to a minimum equivalent of the Royal Yacht Association Advanced Powerboat qualification, safely operate/handle vessels up to 15 metres in length with the ability to gain operational pass out as a Thames Commander (impeccable boat-handing is required)
- Extensive maritime experience and knowledge of SAR operations, navigation, local bylaws and the International Regulations Prevention of Collision at Sea.
- Experience of maintaining and operating high speed marine engines and their ancillary systems.
So, if you are ready for your next exciting challenge and consider yourself to be someone who is a natural leader who can inspire and motivate a team of dedicated people, please apply via the button shown.
Thames Commander (Chiswick) Temporary up to 12 months Internal only employer: RNLI
Contact Detail:
RNLI Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Thames Commander (Chiswick) Temporary up to 12 months Internal only
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the RNLI and its values inside out. When you’re chatting with the team or during interviews, show that you’re not just a candidate but someone who genuinely cares about saving lives at sea. This passion can really set you apart!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your decision-making skills under pressure. As a Thames Commander, you’ll need to keep a cool head in stressful situations. Try simulating scenarios with friends or colleagues to build your confidence and showcase your leadership abilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current RNLI staff and volunteers. They can provide insights into the role and the organisation’s culture. Plus, it’s a great way to get your name out there and show your enthusiasm for joining the team!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about wanting to be part of the RNLI family.
We think you need these skills to ace Thames Commander (Chiswick) Temporary up to 12 months Internal only
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Lifesaving: When writing your application, let your passion for saving lives at sea shine through. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to the RNLI's mission and how you can contribute to the team.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills: As a Thames Commander, you'll need to lead and inspire volunteers. Make sure to showcase your leadership experience in your application. Use specific examples of how you've motivated teams or handled stressful situations in the past.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. This will help us understand your qualifications and experiences without getting lost in unnecessary details.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can't wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at RNLI
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your maritime knowledge, especially around navigation and seamanship. Familiarise yourself with the RNLI's values and how they apply to the role of Thames Commander. Being able to discuss specific scenarios where you've demonstrated leadership in stressful situations will really impress.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your ability to lead and motivate a team, particularly in high-pressure environments. Think about times when you've successfully trained or developed volunteers, as this is key for the role. Be ready to explain how you would inspire others at the lifeboat station.
✨Understand the Community Impact
Research the local community and the RNLI's initiatives in water safety. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to the Community Lifesaving Plan and engage with various groups. Showing that you care about the community will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Stay Calm and Collected
During the interview, maintain a calm demeanour, especially when discussing challenging scenarios. This reflects the cool-headedness required for the role. Practising common interview questions with a friend can help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently.