Job Description

Deckhand (Inland Pushboat)

Overview

The Deckhand plays a crucial role in the general upkeep and operation of an inland pushboat and its accompanying barges. This involves working diligently with lines and hard rigging, as well as monitoring the transfer of products on the barges to ensure safe and efficient operations.

Responsibilities

Safety

• Inland Deckhands are directly responsible for assisting the vessel master in maintaining a safe and efficient operational environment for Kirby’s boats and barges.
• Adherence to all safety rules and instructions provided by Managers and Supervisors is a mandatory condition of employment with Kirby.

Role and Responsibilities

• Attach and remove lines and cables to and from the vessel, barges, docks, and locks.
• Execute line handling procedures 4 to 8 times during loading and discharging operations to adjust for varying barge heights relative to other barges, the dock, and the vessel.
• Perform scheduled vessel maintenance and housekeeping tasks, including sweeping, washing, chipping rusted metal, priming, and painting.
• Conduct minor repairs utilizing various tools such as hammers, fire axes, ratchets, hand winches, stripping pumps, needle guns, and grinders.
• Carry out other duties as assigned by the vessel master, which may include cooking, cleaning, and washing clothes.

Qualifications

Experience

• Basic computer skills knowledge is required.
• 12 months of consecutive work experience is preferred.

Education

• A High School Diploma or GED is preferred.

Work Conditions

• Must be able to live and work in close quarters, requiring the ability to spend extended periods away from family.
• Work schedules and hours are determined by the boat. A typical work schedule involves a 2-for-1 rotation, lasting up to 30 days, with 12-hour work shifts, including holidays.
• Must be capable of working outdoors in various inclement weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold.
• Must be willing and able to attend paid, required training both during and outside of scheduled work time.
• Reliable transportation is essential, with the ability to drive to and from company-defined hub cities.

Compensation

$215 per day, plus comprehensive benefits package (Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, etc.)

Competencies and Certification Requirements

• A valid TWIC card must be possessed prior to applying. (Information on how to apply for a TWIC card is available).
• Must hold a valid driver’s license.
• No DWI or DUI convictions within the last three years.
• No more than 2 moving driving violations within the last three years.
• Ability to satisfy all United States Coast Guard physical requirements (CG-719K) as outlined in 46 CFR Part 10.
• Ability to satisfy all United States Coast Guard Chemical Drug Testing Programs for Vessel Personnel, as found in 46 CFR Part 10.
• Ability to pass company requirements of 46 CFR Part 197 Subpart C Benzene.
• A valid state-issued birth certificate is required.
• A valid social security card is required.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Cannot have any criminal charges pending or be on probation.
• Must be able to meet the standards of the Criteria Skill Assessment (online).
• Must be able to read and write English fluently.
• Ability to understand both written and verbal orders clearly.

Physical Requirements

• Walk: Must be able to walk 2-3 miles per day.
• Step: Must be able to step 2 feet vertically and 2 feet horizontally.
• Reach: Must be able to extend arms fully throughout a normal range of motion, both horizontally and vertically (e.g., throwing and catching lines).
• Climb: Must be able to climb a 90-degree vertical ladder 25-30 feet, including carrying weight while climbing.
• Grip/Hold/Pull: Must be able to grip, hold, and pull 50 lbs.
• Lift: Must be able to lift 75 lbs.
• Lift & Carry: Must be able to lift and carry 50 lbs for approximately 350 feet.
• Vision: Color vision and eyesight must be sufficient to pass an eye test required for a merchant mariner’s credential, requiring uncorrected vision of at least 20/200 in each eye, corrected to 20/40 in each eye.
• Hearing: Must meet minimum standards as per USCG requirements.
• Speech: Must be able to verbally communicate in the English language, both in delivery and in being understood, using handheld radios or other required devices.
• Smell: Must possess a sense of smell to detect the presence of potentially dangerous vapors.
• Pulmonary Functions: Must pass a pulmonary function test with a minimum score of 75%.
• General: Must be able to enter and exit hatches/doorways quickly in case of an emergency.
• Equipment: Must be able to wear a negative or positive pressure respirator, PVC foul weather gear, a personal flotation device, rubber gloves, and boots.
• Ability to use firefighting and spill containment equipment.