Senior Deckhand (LA/LB)

Maintain the vessels in a state of readiness to perform work for customers as needed. Perform work as directed by captain of vessel. Job includes pulling heavy lines, climbing onto and walking on barges, boats and narrow barge walkways. Deck must be hosed down and free of lines (all gear must be put away when not in use). Make up all tows, and multiple barge tows as directed by captain. Deck personnel are trained to perform the following skills in addition to other skills required by the captain and/or the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Essential Functions: 

• Use the VHF portable radio.
• Splice lines. Perform lubrication services. Properly tie off barge tows, raft tows, etc.
• Give proper direction and distance signals and information. Use equipment on the tug -- winches, capstan, peavey, pike pole, pumps. Make up multiple barge tows. Fuel tug. Complete barge reports, engine room logs.
• Paint inside and outside of tug on an on-going basis. Cook meals for crew members and prepare grocery orders and supply requisitions. Check engine room hourly for leaks, broken fuel and oil lines, etc. Take readings on each watch and maintain engine room logs. Drain water out of air tanks every day. Check oil in auxiliary and main engines before starting.
• Change oil and filter as needed. A general maintenance checklist is provided explaining what equipment needs to be greased started, etc. Engine should be wiped down of oil each night. Keep area clean and free of oil.
• Tighten and grease/ replace shaft packing before leaving the boat. Take on fuel and water, and pump bilges.
• Cleaning restrooms on tug. Prepare grocery/supplies list.
• Performs special duties and other projects as assigned.
• Adheres to all company policies.
• Accomplishes all tasks as appropriately assigned or requested.

• Must be able to comprehend and respond and carry out specific orders from the captain. Ability to communicate effectively with captain, co-workers, dispatchers and customers. Ability to learn safety awareness, injury prevention, firefighting. Must be able to read, speak and understand English over the telephone and/or radio.
• Must be able to plan and prepare multiple meals for crews.
• Must be physically fit enough to pull heavy lines/hoses, lift, tighten winches, carry heavy items, kneel while painting or changing oil/filters, climb onto barges and upstairs to wheelhouse, bending and twisting during boat/barge tie-up.

• Exposure to all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, heat, wind, etc.).
• Must have the ability and flexibility to work a variety of schedules and hours and must be able to report for duty with a one hour notice. Must be able to work overtime, Sundays, Saturdays, holidays, night work.
• Assignments can last up to 15 days (river) or as much as 90 days (ocean). Must be willing to take callouts.
• Must not be afraid of heights or narrow walkways.
• Must join Union.

• Must possess and maintain US Coast Guard Merchant Mariners Document (MMD) or Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC).
• Must possess Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• AB limited with a valid STCW endorsement is preferred.
• Must possess and maintain valid state driver's license.
• Must possess and maintain valid passport.
• Able to work weekends, holidays, and at night.

AmNAv is an Equal Opportunity - Affirmative Action Employer and a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We are committed to a diverse workforce and taking affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. AmNav is a drug-free employer and a participant of the E-Verify Employment Verification Program.