Deckhand - Canal Barge Company

Deckhand

I. BASIC FUNCTION

Illinois Marine Towing Deckhands work on our fleet of Inland Towing and Fleeting Vessels preparing barges for safe and timely transport. Qualified candidates must be safety-conscious and able to work in a physically demanding environment. The work schedule consists of 21 days on and 21 days off (Line Boat) or 14 days on and 7 days off (Fleet Boat), working 12 hour shifts.

All applicants must have favorable work references and must pass a

pre-employment physical examination and drug screen.

II. MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

The duties of the Deck Crew vary from vessel to vessel and from watch to watch. Duties include but are not necessarily limited to:

• Performing the various tasks necessary to maintaining, making up and breaking a tow, such as making a coupling, operating winches and ratchets, handling wires, handling and throwing lines and splicing lines

• Dropping, spotting and switching barges at docks

• Standing lookout or “riding the head” of the tow as a lookout

• Maintain cleanliness of the vessel and tow, such as cleaning or “souging” the vessel and cleaning living quarters

• Inspect and maintain equipment

• Preform basic vessel maintenance

• Report any relevant vessel condition information, especially any hazardous or unsafe condition of the boat, tow, and any associated equipment not to the Leadman, Master (or Pilot on Watch) and take action to prevent injuries or accidents

• Adhere to all IMT policies, USCG and environmental regulations

III. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical requirements of the job include climbing ladders and stairs, repetitive bending and stooping, lifting heavy marine equipment, and lifting objects from various levels ranging from 10-100 pounds. The equipment and tools used to perform job duties includes but is not restricted to lines, cables, ratchets, cheater pipes, pumps.

IV. WORKING CONDITIONS

Deckhands work and live aboard their assigned vessel for extended periods of time. The majority of duties performed by Deckhands are on the outside of the vessel and they may be subject to inclement weather (snow, ice, extreme heat, rain, fog, etc.). This work may be performed in rough waters and unstable footing conditions.

 V. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates must:

• Demonstrate the ability to employ all safety practices and manage risk.

• Have strong written, verbal, and interpersonal skills.

• Be able to obtain a Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC).