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Assistant Deckhand Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BUFFALO MARINE SERVICE INC

Deckhand

Houston, TX

The Deckhand must be able to assist with the training of newly hired employees. * A Deckhand must be able to handle lines and rigging during tow building, locking, and docking activities. * A ...

Ergon, Inc

Deckhand

Vicksburg, MS · On-site

Responsible for various other duties assigned by the captain which may vary from vessel to vessel * Assist other personnel when needed Deckhand Qualifications: * Must be eighteen years of age * High ...

BUFFALO MARINE SERVICE INC

Deckhand

Houston, TX · On-site

The Deckhand must be able to assist with the training of newly hired employees. * A Deckhand must be able to handle lines and rigging during tow building, locking, and docking activities. * A ...

Ergon, Inc

Deckhand

Vicksburg, MS · On-site

Responsible for various other duties assigned by the captain which may vary from vessel to vessel * Assist other personnel when needed Deckhand Qualifications: * Must be eighteen years of age * High ...

Ergon, Inc

Deckhand

Vicksburg, MS

Responsible for various other duties assigned by the captain which may vary from vessel to vessel * Assist other personnel when needed Deckhand Qualifications: * Must be eighteen years of age * High ...

TopView Sightseeing

Deckhand

New York, NY · On-site

$25/hr

The Deckhand monitors deck areas onboard the vessel, as well as passengers, to ensure safety during ... Seek continuous improvement * Assist the Captain in ensuring compliance with all applicable local ...

TopView Sightseeing

Deckhand

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

The Deckhand monitors deck areas onboard the vessel, as well as passengers, to ensure safety during ... Seek continuous improvement * Assist the Captain in ensuring compliance with all applicable local ...

Allen Marine Tours

Deckhand

Ketchikan, AK · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Summary for Deckhand Executes duties under the direction of the Captain, to ensure the safe operation and maintenance of the vessel. Assist the Captain in monitoring vessel systems and ...

J.F. Brennan Company, Inc.

Deckhand

Bloomsdale, MO · On-site

Deckhand Responsibilities As a member of the Brennan crew, you'll report to the mate/pilot and assist in the switching and fleeting of barges as we provide efficient and safe work to our customers.

Seastreak LLC

Deckhand

Providence, RI · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Deckhands / Crew members operate and maintain equipment on the deck of a vessel to assist with docking and other operations. Responsibilities include greeting passengers, collecting tickets, throwing ...

Seastreak LLC

Deckhand

Providence, RI · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Deckhands / Crew members operate and maintain equipment on the deck of a vessel to assist with docking and other operations. Responsibilities include greeting passengers, collecting tickets, throwing ...

Allen Marine Tours

Deckhand

Juneau, AK · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Summary for Deckhand Executes duties under the direction of the Captain, to ensure the safe operation and maintenance of the vessel. Assist the Captain in monitoring vessel systems and ...

Allen Marine Tours

Deckhand

Sitka, AK · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Summary for Deckhand Executes duties under the direction of the Captain, to ensure the safe operation and maintenance of the vessel. Assist the Captain in monitoring vessel systems and ...

Allen Marine Tours

Deckhand

Yakutat, AK · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Summary for Deckhand Executes duties under the direction of the Captain, to ensure the safe operation and maintenance of the vessel. Assist the Captain in monitoring vessel systems and ...

Seastreak LLC

Deckhand

Atlantic Highlands, NJ · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Deckhands / Crew members operate and maintain equipment on the deck of a vessel to assist with docking and other operations. Responsibilities include greeting passengers, collecting tickets, throwing ...

J.F. Brennan Company, Inc.

Deckhand

Finley, TN · On-site

Deckhand Responsibilities As a member of the Brennan crew, you'll report to the mate/pilot and assist in the switching and fleeting of barges as we provide efficient and safe work to our customers.

J.F. Brennan Company, Inc.

Deckhand

Smithland, KY · On-site

Deckhand Responsibilities As a member of the Brennan crew, you'll report to the mate/pilot and assist in the switching and fleeting of barges as we provide efficient and safe work to our customers.

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Assistant Deckhand information

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$12

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$30

How much do assistant deckhand jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant deckhand in the United States is $21.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Assistant Deckhand vs Deckhand?

AspectAssistant DeckhandDeckhand
Required CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, CPR, First AidSTCW Basic Safety, CPR, First Aid
Work EnvironmentAssists with deck duties, cleaning, maintenancePerforms deck operations, mooring, cleaning
Employer & Industry UsageMarinas, charter boats, commercial vesselsYachts, commercial ships, fishing boats

The Assistant Deckhand and Deckhand roles share similar certifications and work environments, often working together on boats and ships. The Assistant Deckhand typically supports the Deckhand by performing auxiliary tasks, gaining experience to advance to a Deckhand position. Both roles are essential for vessel operations, with the main difference being the level of responsibility and experience required.

What are Assistant Deckhands?

Assistant Deckhands are entry-level crew members on ships, boats, or other marine vessels. They help maintain the cleanliness and safety of the deck, assist with the handling of lines and cargo, and support more senior deckhands and officers with various tasks. Their responsibilities might also include basic maintenance, painting, and helping with docking or undocking procedures. This role is an excellent starting point for those interested in a maritime career, as it provides hands-on experience and opportunities for advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Deckhand, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Deckhand, you need basic seamanship skills, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers requiring STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) certification. Familiarity with tools such as ropes, winches, and safety equipment, as well as knowledge of maritime safety protocols, is essential. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to follow instructions make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring vessel safety, efficient operations, and compliance with maritime regulations.

What are some common challenges Assistant Deckhands face when working on a vessel, and how can they prepare for them?

Assistant Deckhands often face challenges such as adapting to physically demanding tasks, working in various weather conditions, and maintaining safety standards on board. Being prepared involves building physical stamina, familiarizing yourself with maritime safety protocols, and developing good communication skills for teamwork. Proactively seeking guidance from experienced crew members and participating in safety drills can help new Deckhands adapt quickly and perform effectively.
More about Assistant Deckhand jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Deckhand jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Deckhand job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Deckhand jobs? The most popular types of Deckhand jobs are:
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Assistant Deckhand jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Deckhand job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,879 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Deckhand - NOAA Research Vessel Support

AtOrchard LLC

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Description:

@Orchard LLC has been awarded the PEMAD sea-going support contract through NOAA Fisheries. We are actively hiring Deckhands (Levels I & II) to support NOAA Fisheries’ research operations aboard the R/V Gloria Michelle and other survey vessels. Deckhands are essential to the safe and effective deployment of scientific gear, vessel operations, and maintenance. This is a hands-on role requiring seamanship, technical skills, and the ability to work in a small crew environment on extended research trips.


Responsibilities
  • Safely deploy and retrieve scientific sampling gear (trawls, dredges, grabs, CTDs, sensors, etc.).Conduct routine vessel operations, including docking, line handling, watches, and housekeeping.
  • Assist with cruise staging/de-staging, loading/unloading of stores, supplies, and scientific equipment.
  • Support deck operations during research missions, ensuring safety protocols are followed.
  • Perform net mending, gear repair, and hydraulic/electrical maintenance as needed.
  • Assist with vessel system maintenance (diesel engines, generators, hydraulics, deck machinery).
  • Operate deck equipment (winches, cranes, derricks, reels, anchor windlass) under the officer's direction.
  • Stand lookout, wheelhouse, and anchor watches using navigation equipment (charts, GPS, radar, fathometers).
  • Support trawl repair and equipment troubleshooting while underway.
  • Work in close quarters with diverse crews, maintaining professionalism in challenging conditions.
  • Report safety issues and operational concerns to NOAA Officers in Charge (OIC/JOIC).
Requirements:

General Requirements (all levels):

  • Ability to work at sea for extended periods in varied weather.
  • Physically capable of lifting and carrying 55lbs, climbing ladders, and working on rolling decks.
  • Willingness to work long days (12 hours standard, occasional extended shifts).
  • Positive and professional demeanor in small crew environments.
  • Current CPR/First Aid/AED certification (or ability to obtain before starting).
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to operate government vehicles.
  • Applicants must pass a drug test, background check, and NOAA medical clearance (including TB test).

Level I (Assistant Deckhand / Junior):

  • Entry-level trawling or oceanographic gear-handling experience desired but not required.
  • Exposure to hydraulic winches, cranes, or trawl operations is a plus.
  • Able to follow instructions and support the senior deck crew with gear operations and maintenance.

Level II (Experienced Deckhand / Lead):

  • Minimum 3 years of trawling/oceanographic experience (hydraulic winches, cranes, trawls, net mending, gear repair).
  • Strong preference for candidates with an Able Seafarer (AB) Fishing credential (experience requirement may be halved).
  • Demonstrated ability to operate and repair vessel systems (diesel, hydraulics, deck machinery).
  • Proven experience managing deck operations safely and efficiently while underway.
  • Familiarity with NOAA Small Boat Policy requirements is strongly preferred.