Pilot Trainee

American Electric Power•West Columbia, WV

About The Position

Under the direction of the Port Captain, the Pilot Trainee will serve an apprenticeship period under the direct supervision of a Master Pilot or Pilot. During the apprenticeship period the Trainee's primary responsibility will be learning how to perform the duties and carry out the responsibilities of a towboat pilot. Specific areas of training will include safe navigation of the vessel, supervision of the personnel, proper radio procedures, vessel safety rules and regulations, emergency medical procedures, and administration of Company policies. Pilot Trainee will work out of Lakin WV and will be required to work 21 days on and 21 days off. Safely navigate a towboat under varying river conditions through hands-on training. Proper use of radar, VHF and all communication equipment including compliance with FCC regulations. Maintain a vessel and its tow in a safe and seaworthy condition in accordance with safe operating procedures and maintain the vessel's log. Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations (oil pollution control, clean water act, etc.) and AEP environmental policies and practices. Conduct effective job briefing, safety meetings and assist the Safety Department in investigating claims of employee injury and completion of an accident report form. Emergency medical procedures including administering CPR and securing emergency medical assistance for ill or injured employees. Expected to exercise considerable initiative in all areas of work to ensure safe and efficient operations.

Requirements

Possess a current valid driver's license.
Possess a valid license as Apprentice Mate (Steersman) of Towing Vessels upon Western Rivers or Inland, or greater USCG license. Ex. Mate (Pilot ) of towing vessels.
Maintain a good employee record with no prior disciplinary proceedings or safety violations within the previous 12 months.
Captains/Pilots are permitted to write two (2) letters of recommendation.
Produce documented steering time and maintain trip documentation in the USCG Towing Officers Assessment Records (TOAR) Book. (Note: a pilot trainee may steer the vessel only under the direct supervision of the Master or Pilot of the vessel to which he or she is current assigned.)
Must provide TOAR and Steering Log for review.
Advanced communication and problem solving skills a must.
Must be able to read and write and speak the English language.
Produce documented steering time and maintain trip documentation in the USCG Towing Officers Assessment Records (TOAR) Book.
Must possess three (3) letters of sponsorship from different Captains/Pilots with the Company's workforce that hold a Valid DE (Designated Examiner) Letter and Master's license who agree to provide their training.
Above average leadership, management and training abilities.
Qualified to work as Second Mate.
Must have completed 2nd Mate Qualification Book.
High School Diploma or GED required.
Must have an excellent understanding of the marine business and currently employed by AEP, with a minimum of (2) years of service.
Advanced problem solving skills a must.
Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills.
Must possess the ability to motivate and lead co-workers.
Maintain a valid driver's license
Physical demand level is Light.
On-call availability.
Willingness to work additional hours and weekends, to meet project deadlines
Travel required

Responsibilities

Manage the day to day operation of the vessel in an efficient manner.
Place orders for stores, fuel or water and taking these items on board the vessel.
Administer disciplinary action in accordance with company procedure.
Administration of the USWA Wage Agreement as it pertains to vessel employees.
Perform all duties and work with employees in a safe manner in accordance with established standards and safety practices.
Carry out, within the assigned area of responsibility, the Company's program of Equal Employment Opportunity, including its Affirmative Action obligations.
Maintain compliance within guidelines of the Responsible Carrier Program (RCP) and ensure crew members are following RCP procedures.
Obtain a valid Radar Observer endorsement when applicable.
Perform all other duties as assigned.
Safely navigate a towboat under varying river conditions through hands-on training.
Proper use of radar, VHF and all communication equipment including compliance with FCC regulations.
Maintain a vessel and its tow in a safe and seaworthy condition in accordance with safe operating procedures and maintain the vessel's log.
Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations (oil pollution control, clean water act, etc.) and AEP environmental policies and practices.
Conduct effective job briefing, safety meetings and assist the Safety Department in investigating claims of employee injury and completion of an accident report form.
Emergency medical procedures including administering CPR and securing emergency medical assistance for ill or injured employees.
Perform other duties as required.