Deckhand - Halstead Fleet

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Deckhand - Halstead Fleet.

Position Details Location Gulf Coast Research Laboratory

703 East Beach Drive

Ocean Springs, Mississippi, 39564

United States Division GCRL Boat Operations Position Type Staff Employment Status Full Time Grant Funded No Salary Range 12.31 - 13.98 Pay Grade

N03

Posting Close Date Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

Preference will be given to local applicants with flexible availability.

Job Summary

Under the supervision of the Fleet Captain, this position will perform deckhand duties on vessels in the Halstead Fleet or other university boats as assigned. Deckhands are responsible for operating and maintaining the vessel's mechanical deck equipment, as well as the general maintenance, upkeep, and cleanliness of the vessel while at sea and in port.

Primary Duties And Responsibilities

• Performs day-to-day maintenance on research vessels to include loading, storing, and maintaining all equipment; performs cleaning and general maintenance; performs line handling duties; painting; and yard work. These duties will be performed in all types of weather, night and day, and while the vessel is underway.
• Assists the Captain with navigation of the vessel. Must be able to communicate with Captain and passengers via VHF radio, orally, or sound/hand signals.
• Launches and operates a small skiff to transport passengers and gear from large vessel to island safely.
• Assists scientific crews with safe and efficient gear deployments and retrievals to include nets, CTDs, and other necessary equipment. Operates winches, A-frames, and trawls; performs engine room checks and rigging.
• Assists passengers as needed and helps oversee general safety of those on-board vessel.
• Serves as a deckhand on other university vessels as needed. Assists GCRL Vessel Operations department in carrying out hurricane evacuation and emergency management plans as necessary. Performs other duties as assigned.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent. Must be at least 18 years old. Valid Driver's License.

First Aid, CPR/AED Certification, or ability to attain within first 3 months of employment

Mississippi Boater Education Certification, or ability to attain within first 3 months of employment

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to complete and pass an internal training program required for approval to operate the vessel's deck equipment. Position is subject to hands-on training necessary to gain skills using hydraulic systems, cranes, and winches.
• Ability to learn and understand routine engine room maintenance such as changing oil and filters, fuel transfers, engine room checks, and any other duties assigned by the captain on watch.
• Ability to learn and practice USCG and departmental safety requirements for mariners.
• Strong communication and listening skills.
• Ability to work as a team member in high stress situations while at sea.
• Ability to work away from home, offshore, over-night, weekends, and some holidays.
• Ability to work on a daily basis at vessel's homeport, while not on a charter.
• Ability to return to vessels on scheduled time off in the event of emergency or to help facilitate the university's hurricane evacuation plan.
• Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 75 pounds.
• Basic computer knowledge and ability to operate Microsoft Office.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

3-6 months of related experience working onboard vessels.

About The University Of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.