Experienced Dredge Tugboat Deckhand

Curtin Maritime•Houston, TX
•Onsite

About The Position

Curtin Maritime is hiring experienced Dredge Tugboat Deckhands to support dredging and marine construction operations. Candidates must have 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 values of Innovation, Integrity, and Efficiency and its onboard standards. The company provides fully paid, company-coordinated travel to and from the vessel; applicants may live anywhere in the United States. The posting describes two levels. Deckhand II compensation is $300–$400 per day. Deckhand III compensation is $400–$475 per day. The position involves deck, engine-room, and house duties, with duties and required credentials varying by level and operation. Dredging experience is required, and the company is currently considering only candidates with dredging-operations experience.

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.
  • TWIC Card.
  • Pass Coast Guard physical and drug test.
  • Merchant Mariner Credential (Ordinary Seaman) for Deckhand II.
  • Coast Guard Medical Certificate.
  • Passport.
  • STCW Basic Training.
  • For Deckhand III, all Deckhand II licenses and requirements, plus Able Body Seaman-Special (MT only), STCW Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboatman-Limited), and Qualified Rigger (Dredge only) and OSHA 30 (Dredge only).
  • Ability to think clearly during stressful situations or emergencies.
  • Ability to understand and respect the chain of command and take direction.
  • Attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Ability to traverse uneven ground and walk gangways at various heights.
  • Ability to bend, stoop, or squat frequently and climb high steps or 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 catch and 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 areas that may experience periods of darkness and to work in confined spaces.
  • Ability to perform emergency duties and use emergency equipment aboard the vessel.
  • Must be able to swim.
  • Ability to maintain good personal hygiene and cleanliness.
  • For Deckhand III, ability to identify maintenance needs and plan corrective work, experience using the Vessel Management System, and ability to run the deck and lead the deck crew for all operations.

Nice To Haves

  • Experience assisting with anchor handling and dredge support operations.
  • Able Body Seaman Endorsement (Unlimited, Limited, and Special) for Deckhand II.
  • STCW Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboatman) for Deckhand II.
  • For Deckhand III, STCW RFPNW (MT only).
  • Basic electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and mechanical knowledge for Deckhand III.

Responsibilities

  • Work safely as directed by a supervisor and follow vessel safety procedures.
  • Work independently on projects and tasks; for Deckhand III, identify maintenance needs and plan corrective projects and tasks.
  • Learn and become proficient with the company's vessels and understand the basic functions of a deckhand aboard them.
  • Complete the Labor Training Program binder.
  • Make and break tows in various configurations, including tow wire, push, and hip; make off lines; throw lines; and handle towing and barge operations.
  • Perform basic vessel maintenance, including painting and preparation, greasing, and care of lines and rigging.
  • Assist as needed with painting, forklift operations, rigging, welding, electrical, and engineering work.
  • Perform basic barge calling and tie-up/untie operations, crane signaling, and rigging.
  • 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; shop, provision, inventory, cook, and clean.
  • For Deckhand III, handle anchors, rig tandem tows, prepare and rig barges for tow, perform advanced cargo lashing and barge calling/piloting, and lead the deck crew during operations.
  • For Deckhand III, use the Vessel Management System and lead deck-crew planning and stowage for long voyages, including menu planning and forecasting consumable use.

Benefits

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