Deckhand Job Description for Resume

Updated on: June 6, 2018

Position Overview

A deckhand works on watercraft, such as yachts, ferryboats, and riverboats, where his or her primary work is to ensure that the vessel remains in good working order, and is cleaned and maintained correctly.

He or she is expected to perform a large variety of duties, all of which are required to be performed according to schedules, and in sync with orders.

Position Requirements

Typically, a high school diploma or a GED equivalent is sufficient to work as a deckhand. If you have had some previous experience in this capacity or a similar one, you will be considered a good choice to hire at this position. But cleaning and maintenance work is not all that you have to do when working as a deckhand.

You also have to handle duties such as lowering and manning lifeboats in cases of emergencies and moving controls of the vessel when required. You will need to be knowledgeable about the way in which marine vessels are controlled, even though you will not be expected to manage any complex work associated with it.

As a deckhand, you will be expected to be capable of lifting and moving heavy objects, and you must know the correct way of ascending and descending ladders and stairs while you are on a vessel that is afloat. Here is a list of duties that you will be expected to perform in this role:

Job Description for Deckhand Resume

• Listen to and follow the vessel captain’s orders regarding the cleanliness and maintenance of the vessel, or assigned areas within.

• Prepare barges for loading and discharging of products at ports across waterway systems.

• Build and break tow by using lines, wires, ratchets, and stationary winches, and assist sailing staff members with their work.

• Perform standard housekeeping activities, and handled painting and chipping operations.

• Handle transfer rigging, vessel, and barge maintenance activities, and manage midstream fuel transfers.

• Handle vessel controls and turn hand-wheels to raise or lower passenger or vehicle landing ramps.

• Assist in painting lifeboats, decks, and superstructures, using brushes and other tools.

• Handle machine maintenance work such as lubricating parts and equipment.

• Use a wide variety of hand tools and equipment to splice and repair cables and ropes.

• Tour decks to ensure that passengers are following all safety precautions, and alert crew members of any safety breaches.

• Wash down decks, and ensure that they are dried before it is time for passengers to come out.