Unlicensed Able Seaman

Entry-level deckhand on a cargo vessel with additional duties in the engine room. Supports the deck department and may work as a watch stander and/or deck worker under the direction of licensed crew members.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the loading, lashing, unlashing and discharge of cargo.
• Clean the tug and barges.
• Assist with the handling of fuel and freight.
• Act as lookout and maintain watch on deck and in the engine room.
• Assist the Chief Engineer when required.
• Perform general maintenance, repair, sanitation and upkeep of material, equipment, and areas in the deck department.
• Operate deck machinery, such as the windlass or winches while mooring or unmooring, and to operate cargo gear.
• Perform the job in a safe and seamanlike manner in accordance with all company policies and procedures, and state and federal regulations, performing only functions and tasks for which you have been trained.
• Follow the safety, company policy manual and other material provided by the company.
• Work and live on vessel for extended periods of time.
• Work in a constant state of alertness and in a safe manner.
• Perform other duties as directed.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• One (1) year of Able Seaman or deckhand experience preferred.
• Current MMC with AB endorsement preferred.
• Basic Safety and Firefighting training preferred.
• Current TWIC card preferred.
• Must be able to pass and maintain a Coast Guard physical exam for merchant mariners.
• Previous Alaska water navigation experience preferred.
• Valid state driver’s license and qualified to operate a vehicle under the Company’s Driving Policy preferred.
• Ability to pass drug, driving, and background screenings.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule sometimes including weekends and holidays.

Skills

• Knowledge of equipment, policies, and procedures to promote the safe and effective operations of a cargo vessel.
• Knowledge of principles and methods for moving cargo by sea.
• Advanced knowledge on appropriate use of the emergency equipment located on the boat.
• Able to perform tasks and solve practical problems normally encountered by a deckhand, including knot selections, tying, hazard avoidance, and safely responding to orders.
• Able to use equipment necessary to perform tasks of deckhand.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Reliable, responsible, and dependable, able to fulfill obligations.
• Careful about details and thorough in completing work tasks.
• Ability to solve problems, make clear rational decisions in a crisis, and clearly formulate and communicate instruction.
• Ability to perform both short and long-term planning to accomplish vessel and company goals.
• Ability to use logic and reasoning to identify strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
• Ability to remain focused and aware of surroundings.

Schedule

Crews normally work the entire navigation season (approximately 180 days), 7 days a week, 12 hours per day, without any time off other than vessel downtime. While underway, the deckhand works shifts of 12 hours at the direction of the Captain or Chief Mate.

Working Environment

• Fast-paced, multi-tasking environment requiring a high degree of efficient and effective performance.
• Work is not for everyone; requires a commitment to be away from home for long periods of time, which can be emotionally challenging.
• Requires a demeanor that can adapt to changing conditions and varying personalities with decorum and professionalism while in close quarters.