Our Deckhand job description includes the responsibilities, duties, skills, education, qualifications, and experience.
About the Deckhand role
A Deckhand is a crew member aboard a ship or boat whose duties include maintenance of the vessel and its equipment, and assisting the deck officers with navigation and other tasks. Deckhands may also assist with loading and unloading cargo, painting, and other duties as needed.
Role Purpose
The purpose of a Deckhand is to assist the captain and other crew members in the daily operations of a boat or ship. This includes tasks such as mooring and anchoring the vessel, launching and securing the vessel, maintaining and repairing the vessel, and helping with the navigation and operation of the vessel. Deckhands are also responsible for the upkeep of the ship, such as ensuring the decks are kept clean, checking and servicing safety equipment, and performing minor maintenance tasks.
Deckhand Summary
Deckhand Job Summary:
A Deckhand is responsible for performing a wide range of duties on board a ship or other seafaring vessel. These duties include operating and repairing deck equipment, rigging lines and sails, inspecting cargo, cleaning and maintaining the ship’s deck, and assisting the ship’s officers in navigation. Deckhands must also be familiar with safety protocols and shipboard operations. The successful candidate must have strong communication and organizational skills, and be comfortable working in an environment with ever-changing conditions.
Deckhand Duties
- Assist captain and crew with ship operations and maintenance
- Perform deck maintenance such as painting, varnishing, and cleaning
- Launch and recover boats, and operate deck machinery
- Check moorings and perform general anchoring duties
- Perform basic navigation and navigation-related tasks
- Assist with loading and unloading cargo and supplies
- Help with rigging sails and other deck operations
- Perform lookout duties when necessary
Deckhand Skills
- Ability to understand and follow instructions
- Ability to work in a team
- Ability to use basic hand tools
- Ability to lift and carry heavy objects
- Ability to work in a variety of weather conditions
- Ability to climb ladders and rigging
Deckhand Requirements
- Ability to orient and work safely in a marine environment, including working aloft, over the side, in enclosed spaces and other hazardous conditions.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends.
- Ability to read and understand instructions in English.
- Ability to take direction and work independently and as part of a team.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods of time.
- Ability to work in all kinds of weather conditions.
- Ability to climb ladders and safely use tools and equipment.
- Ability to make basic repairs, paint, and perform general maintenance.
- Ability to operate a variety of power tools.
- Ability to perform duties associated with the safe operation of the vessel, including watch-standing and back-up navigation.
- Ability to perform firefighting and emergency duties.
- Ability to perform deck maintenance, such as cleaning and scrubbing, as well as storing and lashing of cargo.
- Knowledge of safety and security procedures.
- Knowledge of deck and engine department operations and maintenance.
- Knowledge of basic knots and ropework.
Personal Traits
- Strong work ethic
- Dependability
- Ability to work in a team environment
- Ability to follow instructions
- Attention to detail