Experienced Dredge Tugboat Deckhand

Curtin Maritime•New Orleans, LA
•$300 - $475

About The Position

Curtin Maritime is hiring experienced Dredge Tugboat Deckhands to support dredging and marine construction operations. Candidates must have previous experience aboard tugboats supporting dredging operations, including towing, line handling, rigging, barge operations, and vessel maintenance. Deckhands II and III work directly with the Port Captain and Vessel Captain and are expected to uphold the company’s standards and core values of Innovation, Integrity, and Efficiency. Applicants may live anywhere in the United States; the company coordinates and fully pays travel to and from the vessel. Deckhand II responsibilities include working safely and independently as directed, learning the company’s vessels and deckhand functions, and completing the Labor Training Program binder. Duties span deck operations, basic vessel maintenance, marlinspike work, engine-room assistance, and vessel housekeeping. Compensation is $300–$400 per day. Deckhand III responsibilities include identifying maintenance needs and planning corrective projects, using the Vessel Management System, and leading the deck crew through operations. Duties include anchor handling, tandem tows, barge preparation and rigging, advanced cargo lashing and barge calling/piloting, basic mechanical and trade work, and planning provisions for long voyages. Compensation is $400–$475 per day.

Requirements

  • Previous experience aboard tugboats supporting dredging or marine construction operations.
  • Experience with towing, positioning, and securing barges and dredging equipment.
  • Familiarity with deck rigging, line handling, and safe operations around heavy marine equipment.
  • Ability to work safely and effectively in active dredging environments.
  • Ability to think clearly in stressful situations or emergencies and to take direction while respecting the chain of command.
  • Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
  • Ability to traverse uneven ground and gangways at varying heights; bend, stoop, or squat frequently; and climb steps and ladders several times a day.
  • Ability to safely lift at least 40 pounds and move heavy, large, or awkward equipment.
  • Physical dexterity and strength to handle lines, make up tows with wire rigging, operate deck machinery, and work on equipment that is poorly accessible.
  • Ability to work below decks in periods of darkness and in confined spaces, perform emergency duties, and use emergency equipment onboard.
  • Must be able to swim and maintain good personal hygiene and cleanliness.
  • Deckhand II: TWIC Card; pass a Coast Guard physical and drug test; MMC (Ordinary Seaman); Coast Guard Medical Certificate; passport; and STCW Basic Training.
  • Deckhand III: all Deckhand II licenses and requirements, plus Able Body Seaman-Special (MT only), STCW Proficiency Survival Craft (Lifeboatman-Ltd), Qualified Rigger (Dredge only), and OSHA 30 (Dredge only).

Nice To Haves

  • Experience assisting with anchor handling and dredge support operations.
  • Deckhand II: Able Body Seaman Endorsement (Unlimited, Limited, and Special).
  • Deckhand II: STCW Proficiency Survival Craft (Lifeboatman).
  • Deckhand III: STCW RFPNW (MT only).
  • Deckhand III: basic electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and mechanical knowledge.
  • Deckhand III: experience leading the deck crew in planning and stowing for long voyages, including menus and forecasting consumables.

Responsibilities

  • Work safely as directed by a supervisor and independently on assigned projects and tasks.
  • Learn and become proficient with the company’s vessels and deckhand functions; complete the Labor Training Program binder.
  • Make and break tows in various configurations, handle lines, tie up and untie barges, and perform basic barge calling.
  • Perform deck rigging, crane signaling, and maintenance such as painting, greasing, and caring for lines and rigging.
  • Assist with painting, forklift operations, rigging, welding, electrical, and engineering work as needed.
  • Read and log engine-room gauges, identify abnormal operating conditions, and notify the Chief Engineer or watch officer.
  • Clean and inspect equipment, trace systems, and perform basic maintenance and services.
  • Maintain fresh-water levels and assist with shopping, provisioning, inventory, cooking, and cleaning.
  • For Deckhand III: identify maintenance needs, plan corrective projects, use the Vessel Management System, and run the deck and lead the deck crew.
  • For Deckhand III: handle anchors, rig tandem tows and barges for towing, perform advanced cargo lashing and barge calling/piloting, and plan provisions for long voyages.

Benefits

  • Medical insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Short-term disability insurance
  • AD&D/life insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Option to elect incremental life insurance for employees and dependents
  • Option to elect a health and/or dependent flexible spending account
  • Company-coordinated, fully paid travel to and from the vessel
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