Barge Deckhand

Responsibilities

• Assemble, install, and operate rigging equipment, including cranes, hoists, and pulleys, to lift and position heavy loads.
• Secure loads using appropriate rigging methods, ensuring safe and stable transport.
• Inspect rigging tools and equipment regularly to ensure proper functioning.
• Perform routine maintenance and report any equipment defects or repairs needed.
• Collaborate with engineers, project managers, and construction teams to understand load requirements and project goals.
• Follow detailed lift plans and provide input on rigging feasibility and efficiency.
• Assist in construction or demolition of various structures.
• Load and unload materials and move materials in work areas.
• Maintain tools and equipment.
• Assist in the fabrication, assembly and stripping of concrete forms.
• Construct scaffolding.
• Dig trenches and place pipes or cables.
• Construct and maintain temporary roads or pathways.
• Clean up work sites.
• Take delivery of materials and cargo from suppliers.
• Inventory material, tools and supplies.
• Adhere to all workplace safety regulations and company policies.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure safety measures are in place during lifting operations.
• Train and guide team members on proper rigging techniques as needed.
• Maintain records of rigging inspections, equipment usage, and safety protocols.
• Aid in creating detailed reports for project progress and equipment usage.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical training in rigging or related fields is a plus.
• Valid certification in rigging or crane operation (e.g., NCCCO, OSHA-compliant certification).
• Minimum 2-3 years of experience working as a deckhand on a barge or large vessel required.
• Proficiency in using rigging equipment, such as slings, shackles, chains, and hoists.
• Strong understanding of weight calculations, load balancing, and safe rigging practices.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Experience working around cranes and knowledge of rigging crane loads strongly preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and load charts.
• Physical fitness and ability to work in outdoor environments, including around water and at heights.
• Familiarity with hydraulic and mechanical systems used in water resource projects.
• Knowledge of environmental and regulatory compliance for water construction sites.

Work Environment

• Outdoor construction sites, often near or on water.
• May involve lifting heavy objects, working at heights, and exposure to varying weather conditions.
• Frequent travel to project locations is required.

Physical Demands

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• The inability to cope with a stressful work environment does not constitute a protected disability.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is seldom required to sit. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear.
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.