Deckhand (Seasonal)

Summary

The typical defined season is not to exceed 6 months between April - October but can be variable during these months due to weather conditions, project needs, or funding. Anticipated Entry on Duty: April 2027. Open to the first 50 applicants or until 11/16/2026, whichever comes first. All applications submitted by 11:59 (EST) on the closing day will receive consideration.

Duties

Some of the major duties you will perform include but are not limited to the following: Stands wheel watches in relief of and primarily under the direct supervision of the captain of the vessel. Serves as cargo loader, adjusting placement of cargo in deck and in hold and taking on/off fuel to assure safety of cargo and vessel. Assists with maintenance and repair of all vessel mechanical equipment. Briefs passengers on emergency procedures and routine operations in place to minimize conflicts and interference with boat operations. Maintains internal and external vessel appearance. Cleans, repairs and adusts dick machinery on regular basis including winches, anchors, hatches, booms, skiff etc. Physical Demands: The work of this position involves standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, and climbing ramps and cramped ladders, which are often wet. The incumbent is required to push, pull, reach, walk, stand, crawl, kneel, and work in cramped positions and lift, carry, and store heavy items (cargo). Items weighing up to 50 pounds are lifted frequently, and cargo weighing over 100 pounds may also be frequently handled (winch assistance is available in most instances). Work is often performed while standing for long periods and the incumbent is subject to constant motion from the movement of the vessel. Work Environment: This position works on vessel decks and is exposed to sun, wind, spray, and rain when mooring, unmooring, loading, and unloading cargo. The incumbent works inside vessels while they are underway, but may also work outside on deck to check equipment and handle lines during mooring and departure. The incumbent is outside when operating small craft and is exposed to occasional harsh winds and extremes of wind chill factors during winter operations. The incumbent is exposed to hot, cramped quarters when working in engine rooms. Noise and vibration on vessel's decks and bridge when underway are constant. Engine room noise is loud and requires hearing protection. Some air pollution or skin hazards may be encountered while working around vessel fuels and solvents or when exhaust from boat blows back on vehicle or when engaged in painting. Hazardous conditions may also occur when decks are pitching during high seas and/or waters, or when they are wet or have snow or ice. The incumbent is exposed to possible falls on deck and to the possibility of falling overboard. A life jacket is worn at all times while underway.

Qualifications

All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement-11/16/2026-unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement. To qualify for this position, you must have sufficient knowledge and ability in the following job-related factors: Ability To Do The Work Of The Position Without More Than Normal Supervision (SCREEN OUT) Operation of Motor Vehicles Work Practices (includes keeping things neat, clean, and in order) Ability To Interpret Instructions, Specifications, etc. (related to mobile equipment operation) Ability to Drive Safely (Motor Vehicles)* Ability To Operate Safely (Non-Motor Vehicle) Reliability and Dependability as a Deckhand If your knowledge and ability in the SCREEN OUT factor above is not sufficient, you will receive no further consideration. In preparing your application, describe in detail the experience and training which you have had that specifically prepared you for this job and to perform the duties described for this job. Experience should be clearly described and documented in your resume. Your resume must support your response to the assessment questionnaire, and if it does not, your application will be marked as not eligible. The qualifications reviewer will not assume performance of such duties by Job Titles alone. Address your knowledge, skills and/or abilities in the areas shown in the job-related factors. You must meet at least 2 points on the screen-out element(s) and obtain an average of at least 2 points on all of the job elements to be considered qualified for this position. Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Education

There is no substitution of education for experience for Federal Wage System (FWS) positions.