Factory Foreman 2026
About the Role
Factory Foremen manage, train, and oversee factory operations and fish processors as raw fish moves through the various factory stations using machinery and conveyors. They take direction from the Captain and Mate, and may work in many areas of the vessel, including the factory, freezer hold, deck, or on adjoining docks or vessels during offload or backload. Factory Foremen also perform the duties of a fish processor.
Responsibilities
- Train, oversee, and manage factory personnel on all aspects of production
- Manage the flow of fish through the factory for optimum production
- Maintain logs and complete paperwork as required
- Oversee day-to-day factory operations
- Direct and oversee the offload of frozen fish and backload of supplies
- Oversee the cleaning and organization of the factory and other areas of the vessel
- Perform the duties of a fish processor (see Fish Processor Job Description)
Requirements
- Valid driver’s license
- Previous work on Bering Sea heading and gutting/Amendment 80 fishing vessels highly preferred
- At least 4 years’ experience processing fish with a leadership role
- High School Diploma or GED (education verification required)
- 24 months or more of relevant verifiable work experience in the last 4 years
Physical Demands
- Board and exit the vessel by gangplank or Jacob’s ladder without assistance
- Work at least 16.5 hours per day, 7 days per week
- Lift weights up to and over 50 pounds repeatedly
- Stand, walk, push, pull, reach, bend, twist, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
- Work in a cold, wet, and loud environment
- Pass pre-employment and random drug tests per USCG regulations
Mental Activities
- Communicate in English for emergency, safety, and training purposes
- Use interpersonal and teamwork skills
- Live and work with others in close quarters for 3+ months at a time
- Discern between various shades of color for documentation, fish sorting, and safety signs
Work Environment
Employees work in extremely remote and austere locations, often days away from land or dock facilities. The work environment is loud, wet, humid, and freezing, with exposure to moving machinery, vibration, and risk of electrical shock. Protective clothing and equipment are required, including rain gear, gloves, rubber boots, and safety devices.
Work Schedule
Typical work hours are 16 hours per day, 7 days per week. Work hours may be extended during offload or backload, resulting in uneven shifts and sleep patterns. Breaks are determined by business needs, and unplanned breaks are prohibited except in health or safety-related incidents.
Benefits
- Medical, vision, and dental insurance for employees and qualified dependents
- 401(k) with employer match after one year of employment
- Meals, snacks, and beverages provided, including diverse cuisine options while at sea
- Flight and lodging booked and pre-paid from Seattle, WA to Dutch Harbor, AK
Pay
Crew-share compensation with an average daily rate of $725 - $900 DOE.