Are you seeking a dynamic career path with a leader in inland marine transportation? Marquette Transportation Company, a premier provider in the industry, is currently hiring full-time Deckhands for its Gulf-Inland division based in St. Rose, LA. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a growing company where hard work is rewarded and advancement is within reach.
About Marquette Transportation Company: A Leader in Inland Marine Transportation
Founded in 1978 and headquartered in Paducah, Kentucky, Marquette Transportation Company stands as a leading force in inland marine transportation services. Operating a vast fleet of over 130 towboats and managing more than 1,000 dry cargo barges, Marquette navigates the extensive Mississippi River System, the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, and the near-shore coastwise market. With additional operational hubs in Lockport, LA, and La Porte, TX, Marquette’s expansive network and over 1,500 dedicated vessel and shore-based employees solidify its position as the largest independent towing service provider on the inland waterways. Marquette Transportation Company distinguishes itself as the only fully integrated fleet in the sector, offering unparalleled service and comprehensive solutions.
Your Role as a Deckhand at Marquette
Marquette Transportation Company is looking for both experienced and entry-level Deckhands to become integral members of our vessel crews. We offer a fast-track career progression, allowing motivated individuals to ascend the ranks quicker than anywhere else in the industry. As a Deckhand, you will be at the heart of our operations, responsible for a variety of essential tasks that ensure the smooth and safe transportation of cargo.
Key Responsibilities of a Deckhand:
- Tow Building and Maintenance: Construct and inspect tows using a range of tools and equipment including wrenches, ratchets, shackles, chain straps, and wires/cables.
- Rigging Operations: Handle and organize rigging sets across the vessel and barges, ensuring efficient and safe cargo handling.
- Water Management: Operate pumps and hoses to remove water from barges, including accessing wing tanks and voids.
- Barge Maintenance: Assist in essential barge tasks such as locking procedures, sweeping, and shoveling to maintain operational readiness.
- Heavy Lifting and Material Handling: Carry equipment like rigging, pumps, hoses, and lines, often weighing between 50-100 lbs.
- Outdoor Work Environment: Perform duties outdoors in diverse weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow, for extended periods.
- Vessel Housekeeping: Maintain cleanliness and orderliness of the vessel through daily tasks like sweeping, mopping, and cleaning crew living quarters.
- Barge Inspections: Check barges for water ingress or leaks, sometimes requiring entry into confined spaces for thorough inspection.
- Vessel Appearance: Uphold the vessel’s appearance through washing, cleaning, chipping, and painting.
- Supply and Delivery Assistance: Support the stocking and delivery of supplies to and from the vessel, ensuring smooth operations.
- Skiff Operations Support: Assist in skiff operations to facilitate crew transfers to and from shore.
- Sounding Operations: Deploy sounders at the head of barges, particularly on Linehaul Vessels, for navigational safety.
- Fluid Transfers: Assist in direct transfers of fuel, lubricants, and bilge liquids as required.
- General Cleaning and Maintenance: Undertake periodic cleaning tasks, including trash removal, mopping, scraping, sanding, and painting to maintain vessel condition.
- Fleet and Tow Work: Prepare barges for customer deliveries as part of fleet and tow operations.
- Additional Duties: Perform other related duties as directed.
Qualifications to Join Marquette Transportation Company:
- Extended Availability: Must be available for extended work periods, typically 28 days on and 14 days off.
- Experience: While experience is preferred, entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply.
- Physical Labor Background: Experience in physical labor, especially in outdoor settings, is advantageous.
- Reliable Transportation: Must possess reliable transportation to reach crew change locations.
- Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years of age to work on board a vessel.
- Physical Fitness: Must meet company physical qualification standards.
- TWIC Card: Must hold a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) or be able to obtain one.
- English Language Proficiency: Must be proficient in speaking, reading, and writing English.
- Lifting Capability: Must be able to lift and handle rigging equipment weighing up to 75-100 lbs.
Benefits of a Career with Marquette Transportation Company:
Marquette Transportation Company provides a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive pay, health, vision, and dental insurance, holiday pay, company-paid life insurance, and a 401(k) plan, among other incentives. Enjoy the unique advantage of living in your hometown while pursuing a rewarding career on the water. Crew changes take place at our home office locations in St. Rose, LA, and La Porte, TX, requiring travel to these locations.
Apply Now to Marquette Transportation Company
Take the first step towards a fulfilling career with Marquette Transportation Company. Apply now to become a Deckhand and join the leading team in inland marine transportation. Apply Now
