Utility Operator

About the role

This shoreside position supports operations by managing nitrogen equipment, performing barge stripping activities, and transporting equipment between locations. This job does not require service as a crew member for the operation of any specific vessel.

Responsibilities

Barge Stripping Operations

• Identify cargo contained in barge set for cleaning.
• Determine where cargo is to be transferred based on cargo type, amount, and available storage.
• Inspect barge ensuring it is cleaned to customer specifications.
• Prepare the barge for loading/discharging liquid petroleum cargoes as per facility loading instructions, including performing line-up of pipelines, opening/closing valves, and connection/disconnection of transfer hoses and loading arms.
• Connect and disconnect cargo hoses to facilitate the safe transfer of liquid petroleum cargo between vessels.
• Continuously monitor transfer utilizing gauges.
• Use Acutum software for completing necessary paperwork.
• Perform gauging and sampling duties as needed.
• Ability to use firefighting equipment and spill containment equipment.

Stripping Barge Maintenance

• Upkeep and repair of pumps used to transfer cargo.
• Inspection of hoses for wear and failures.
• Inspection of stripping barge.
• Inspect rainwater for clarity and discharge.

Nitrogen Equipment

• Oversee refilling of nitrogen equipment at vendor shipyards.
• Ensure nitrogen racks are reinstalled correctly on barges and turned on before leaving.
• Oversee maintenance of nitrogen racks.
• Maintain tracking of spare equipment and ensure billing is accurate.
• Utilize the Acutum Software for tracking.

Driving

• Maintain eligibility to operate a company vehicle in accordance with the company automobile policy by maintaining a driver’s license and satisfactory driving record.
• Ensure equipment is kept clean and maintained, including trucks, trailers, and nitrogen tanks.
• Deliver crossover hoses and other equipment on an as-needed basis to locations as directed.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Organized, detail-oriented, and accurate.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Self-motivated and able to manage the business without daily direct supervision.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and communicate with others.
• Knowledge and use of computer software: Outlook Email, Oasis, Excel, and Acutum MMC with tank barge PIC endorsement.
• Education: High school diploma or GED.
• Experience: Shipyard experience.

Physical Activities & Requirements

• Subject to a physical examination by a Kirby Corporation-appointed physician.
• Work classification: Medium work – lifting no more than 50 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Pushing/Pulling: Requires occasional pushing/pulling of equipment or tools (e.g., moving hoses, adjusting fittings) up to 50 pounds, typically 1–2 hours per shift.
• Standing/Sitting/Walking:
  • Standing: 6–8 hours per day during inspections and repairs on barges.
  • Walking: 2–3 hours per day, navigating barge decks and dock areas.
  • Sitting: 1–2 hours per day, primarily during documentation or breaks.
• Climbing/Crawling/Movement:
  • Frequent climbing of ladders or stairs to access barge decks (up to 10 times per shift).
  • Occasional crawling or movement through enclosed spaces (e.g., void tanks, cargo compartments) during internal inspections, typically 1–2 hours per shift.
• Other Physical Demands: Must be capable of occasional heavy lifting or carrying of 50 pounds (e.g., tools, equipment). Ability to perform duties while wearing personal protective equipment as needed.

Working Conditions

• Work Monday through Friday, 10-hour shifts, and travel as required to multiple locations.
• On-call availability with possibility to work weekends and after hours.
• Duties primarily take place at the dock with occasional daytime boarding of boats/barges.
• Typically does not require overnight stays on boats/barges.
• May be exposed to harsh natural elements, such as intense heat, freezing cold, rain, ice, sleet, and various other environmental conditions.