Longline Captain

About the Role

Coastal Villages Longline, a subsidiary of Coastal Villages Region Fund, is seeking a Captain to operate one of its freezer longliners off the western coasts of Washington and Alaska. The Captain will safely navigate the vessel, supervise and discipline the crew, conduct safety drills, and handle all reporting and paperwork requirements. Additional duties may include managing shipyard work, loading and unloading supplies, cleaning the vessel and equipment, and other tasks as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Navigate the vessel while setting and hauling gear and/or securing to other vessels or docks.
• Maintain familiarity with government reporting requirements, record maintenance, off‑load paperwork, and compliance with maritime laws.
• Maintain safe practices aboard the ship and conduct safety drills.
• Assist with supervising deck operations and handling of gear.
• Evaluate crewmember performance and conduct training when needed.
• Direct and oversee engineering to ensure functionality and safety of the vessel’s engines, power systems, deck machinery, electrical, hydraulic, piping, plumbing, refrigeration, and sanitary systems.
• Execute USCG Oil Transfer Procedures and associated documentation.
• Successfully complete Basic & Advanced Firefighting, 24‑Hour HAZWOPER, drills, Medical Care Provider, and other company‑required courses.
• Maintain a safe and clean working and living environment.
• Work 12‑16 hour, variable shifts in adverse weather conditions, and up to 24‑hour shifts as required by fishing and market conditions.
• Collaborate with Corporate, Vessel Management, and HR to address medical, claims, or other crew issues.
• Ensure crew is trained and ready for each season in partnership with staff and vessel management.
• Participate in drills, required safety training, and any other company‑required courses.
• Report directly to the Vessel Manager.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Current USCG license with STCW endorsements and any other required merchant mariner documentation.
• Either:
  • Three (3) years experience as Captain of a freezer longliner in the Bering Sea fishery, or
  • Five (5) years experience as Captain on another Bering Sea commercial vessel.
• Minimum three (3) years experience as a deckhand, bosun, or mate on a commercial fishing vessel.
• Proven ability to navigate the vessel while setting/hauling gear and securing to docks or other vessels.
• Familiarity with government reporting, record‑keeping, and maritime compliance.
• Experience directing engineering functions and ensuring safety of mechanical and auxiliary systems.
• Knowledge of USCG Oil Transfer Procedures.
• Successful completion of Basic & Advanced Firefighting, 24‑Hour HAZWOPER, medical care provider, and other regulatory training.
• Willingness to work extended, variable shifts and to be away from home for extended periods.
• Ability to live and work in a cramped environment and function as a team member at all times.
• Strong communication skills, self‑motivation, and a positive attitude.
• Pass a post‑offer background check, drug test, and reference check; adhere to a zero‑tolerance drug and alcohol policy.

Physical Demands

• Capable of working consecutive, long, variable shifts (12–16 hours, with periodic breaks) and up to 24‑hour shifts as required.
• Endure strenuous and sometimes hazardous conditions, including exposure to machinery, fumes, chemicals, pressurized fluids, vibration, and extreme weather.
• Stand, walk, and maintain balance on rough seas; grip rope, rails, equipment, and vessel structures for extended periods.
• Occasionally sit, kneel, crouch, crawl, and climb ladders; work in small, confined spaces.
• Occasionally lift 11–20 lb from floor to waist/shoulder level; on a limited basis lift 50 lb in the same manner.
• Occasionally push, pull, and carry 11–20 lb; limited ability to push/pull/carry 50 lb.
• Vision requirements: peripheral, distance, and depth perception; ability to discern shades, colors, and shadows.
• Medical clearance required for use of a tight‑fitting respirator.
• Basic mental functions: intermediate math (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals) with numbers up to 1,000; read, speak, write, and comprehend English; apply these functions to currency, weight, distance, and volume in stressful, noisy, and adverse weather environments.
• May be required to undergo physical examinations and provide medical documentation for reasonable accommodations.

Benefits

• Seasonal crew contract (non‑exempt – seasonal).
• 401(k) plan and health benefits upon eligibility.

Schedule

Work shifts typically range from 12 to 16 hours per day with variable breaks, and may extend to 24‑hour periods depending on fishing and market conditions. Shifts are performed in all weather conditions, including extreme cold.