Deckhand (In Port Services Only) - Ghent, KY

Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference

 

Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all or the same team. One Watco.

Here's what you can expect from Watco:

• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities

Hourly Pay Rate: $18.00 - $20.00
Schedule: 2,2,3 DuPont Schedule, Rotating days/nights every 2 weeks: 6:15 AM - 6:15 PM, or 6:15 PM - 6:15 AM

This position is in-port services

Job Summary

The Deckhand plays a critical role in the safe and efficient operation of tow and fleet activities within port services operations. This position supports continuous, multi-modal terminal activity through the safe handling, securing, and movement of barges while working 12-hour shifts that allow team members to be home daily. All duties are performed in compliance with established safety, environmental, and regulatory standards to ensure reliable and efficient operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• The Deckhand is responsible for the safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant operation of the assigned area 
• Must know how to respond in case of emergency (e.g., man overnoard), including participating in monthly overboard and fire drills 
• Must have a clear understanding and comprehension of all assigned duties and responsibilities 
• The primary function of the Deckhand is to build and break tows, maintain the fleet, ensuring all barges are secure. Duties must be performed in a safe and compliant manner 
• All deckhand personnel must successfully complete all required training 
• The Deckhand must be able to perform vessel maintenance, including cleaning, scraping, painting, and changing all fuel, oil, and filters 
• Must follow written procedures for motor vessel (M/V) fueling 
• Must be able to assist with the training of newly hired team members, and handle lines and rigging during tow building and docking activities 
• Be able to assist with the training of newly hired Team members handle lines and rigging during tow building, docking activities 
• Must use proper knots when tying off barges 
• Must be able to work a rotational schedule and be available to work additional overtime as needed 
• Demonstrate predictable, reliable, and timely attendance 
• Must be able to perform all duties while wearing required protective equipment, including a PFD, PVC foul weather gear, gloves, safety glasses, and Met guard boots 
• Must adhere to and comply with all company policies, United States Coast Guard regulations, and environmental regulations 
• Must follow written and verbal directions to complete assigned tasks on schedule 
• Must be able to read, write, and communicate in English, and understand basic math 
• Must be able to learn from directions, observations, and mistakes, and apply procedures using good judgment 
• Must have a working knowledge of Watco Safety and Operating Principles 
• Must be able to work independently or as part of a team and interact appropriately with others 
• Must be able to receive oral or written instructions from supervisors or the boat pilot indicating which barges are to be handled 
• Must be able to notify the boat pilot of distances to cells or barges using radio, verbal communication, and possibly hand signals 
• Must follow the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for proper tying and all barge movement procedures 
• May coordinate activities such as sweeping the dock and roadways, and pushing material into barges and onto the dock using skid steers or a wheel loader 
• Responsible for the proper placement and stowing of gear 
• Must be able to work safely in all weather conditions—including wet, icy, and uneven surfaces—using strong balance, coordination, and situational awareness at all times 
• Other duties as assigned 

Qualifications

Ability to pass training and required testing

Education

High School or GED equivalent