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Assistant Deckhand Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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.

Deckhand

East Peoria, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $18.25/hr

Participate in passenger safety drills and assist in emergency situations. * The Deckhand will maintain the cleanliness of the vessel on the outside by sweeping, mopping and scrubbing the deck to ...

Deckhand

East Peoria, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $18.25/hr

Participate in passenger safety drills and assist in emergency situations. * The Deckhand will maintain the cleanliness of the vessel on the outside by sweeping, mopping and scrubbing the deck to ...

Participate in passenger safety drills and assist in emergency situations. * The Deckhand will maintain the cleanliness of the vessel on the outside by sweeping, mopping and scrubbing the deck to ...

Deckhand

East Peoria, IL

$16.75 - $18.25/hr

Participate in passenger safety drills and assist in emergency situations. * The Deckhand will maintain the cleanliness of the vessel on the outside by sweeping, mopping and scrubbing the deck to ...

Deckhand

East Peoria, IL

$16.75 - $18.25/hr

Participate in passenger safety drills and assist in emergency situations. * The Deckhand will maintain the cleanliness of the vessel on the outside by sweeping, mopping and scrubbing the deck to ...

The basic function of a Deckhand is to assist the Operator in achieving maximum production possible while taking care of the equipment and working in a safe manner at all times. Below is a list of ...

AIS is looking for a Deckhand to support marine survey work off the coast of Massachusetts. Primary ... Duties/Responsibilities: * Assist with vessel operations and maintenance * Handle lines during ...

Deckhand

Hyannis, MA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

AIS is looking for a Deckhand to support marine survey work off the coast of Massachusetts. Primary ... Duties/Responsibilities: * Assist with vessel operations and maintenance * Handle lines during ...

AIS is looking for a Deckhand to support marine survey work off the coast of Massachusetts. Primary ... Duties/Responsibilities: * Assist with vessel operations and maintenance * Handle lines during ...

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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 29, 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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Assistant deckhands typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily pay is usually associated with specialized roles like offshore oil rig workers, certain executive or consulting positions, or highly experienced contractors in niche industries. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, or extensive experience and may involve long or irregular hours. Most entry-level or standard deckhand positions pay significantly less than this amount daily.

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.

How do I become a deckhand with no experience?

To become an assistant deckhand with no experience, start by gaining basic maritime knowledge, such as safety procedures and knot-tying, through online courses or maritime schools. Obtain a basic safety certification like STCW or CPR, and seek entry-level positions or internships on boats or ships to build hands-on experience. Physical fitness and a willingness to work in outdoor, sometimes challenging conditions are also important for entry into the role.

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.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

An assistant deckhand on a commercial or recreational vessel can earn around $10,000 a month with experience, strong skills, and certifications such as STCW or USCG licenses. These roles often involve working long hours at sea and may require physical fitness and safety training but typically do not require a college degree.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Assistant deckhands typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized surgeons, or successful entrepreneurs. In the maritime industry, top captains or shipowners may reach this level, but these positions require extensive experience, certifications, and ownership stakes. Most jobs paying this amount involve high-level management, investment banking, or professional sports, not entry-level or support roles like assistant deckhand.
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:
What states have the most Assistant Deckhand jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Deckhand jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Deckhand jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Deckhand jobs are:
Infographic showing various Assistant Deckhand job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Temporary. Highlights an 14% Physical, and 86% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $44,879 per year, or $21.6 per hour.
Deckhand

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Deckhands are the cornerstone of all the work we do at Brennan Marine Inc, and the demand for our work is growing. Our deckhands are vital to the operation and maintenance of Brennan's tugboats. We're looking for an entry level deckhand to join our skilled boat crew.
As a deckhand at Brennan, you are a key member in our organization. You keep product moving and safeguard important commodities as they travel hundreds of miles to get product to its destination. You are an essential worker at Brennan andin the US. Economy.
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. Deckhands get to work with a small team to complete the important work of ensuring products are transported to their destination safely. Deckhands get to do a variety of tasks from working in tow to boat engine maintenance tasks to completing daily housekeeping to make their vessel shine. Other duties include:
  • Inspect barges for damage and leaks, which at times requires climbing into confined spaces
  • Use lines, wires, ratchets, and stationary winches to build and break tow in all weather conditions
  • Operate tools and equipment like ratchets, shackles, chain straps and wires/cables
  • Complete daily and periodic maintenance tasks such as cleaning, painting, chipping, transferring rigging, and vessel maintenance
  • Report vessel condition information to the mate or pilot, especially any hazardous or unsafe condition of the boat, tow, or any associated equipment, and take action to prevent injuries or accidents

Requirements
Brennan deckhands are hard workers and enjoy working outdoors on the water. Rain or shine, our clients and their end customers need your help getting commodities and products delivered.
  • Ability to work safely - safety is our #1 priority
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
  • Able to communicate clearly and concisely over a radio
  • Ability to work 12-hour shifts, swing days and nights, weekends, and holidays in any weather
  • Capable of lifting and moving heavy objects
  • Willing and able to learn the challenging tasks of being a safe crew member and deckhand
  • This position requires you to pass pre-employment screenings like a background check, physical and a DOT drug screen that are regulated by federal guidelines.

Compensation and Benefits
We provide a generous, industry-leading benefits package. The protection of our employees and families is important to us, we are proud to offer a group health insurance plan that is designed with our teams needs in mind.
  • All PPE provided - hard hat, life vest, head lamps, gloves, HiVis and $300 boot reimbursement.
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance plans
  • Optional accident, cancer, and critical illness insurance
  • 401(k) program with generous matching
  • Annual bonus eligibility
  • Annual profit-sharing program
  • Paid vacation, time off
  • ID protection
  • Fitness plan reimbursement

and maintaining a family-orientated culture.
Why choose us?
  • We are a company voted by our employees as a certified Great Place to Work®, and recognized by Fortune magazine as a Best Workplace in Construction.
  • Our culture sets us apart. We strive to make our company the best possible place to work. We work hard to continue to build a culture in which every individual is important and the key to our success.
  • Our focus on safety and quality is unmatched in the industry, and our ability to innovate has enabled us to succeed.
  • We are a family-focused company and are determined to provide a rewarding career that offers above-average compensation.
  • We offer an industry-leading benefits package. We are proud to offer our employees and their families group health, dental and vision insurance plans, 401(K) program with generous matching, annual bonus eligibility and profit-sharing program.

Brennan Marine, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
Notice to Staffing Agencies
J.F. Brennan Company Inc. ("Brennan") and its subsidiaries will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. Any unsolicited resumes sent to Brennan, including unsolicited resumes sent to a Brennan mailing address, fax machine or email address, directly to Brennan employees, or to Brennan's resume database will be considered Brennan property. Brennan will NOT pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume. Brennan will consider any candidate for whom an Agency has submitted an unsolicited resume to have been referred by the Agency free of any charges or fees. Agencies must obtain advance written approval from Brennan's recruiting function to submit resumes, and then only in conjunction with a valid fully executed contract for service and in response to a specific job opening. Brennan will not pay a fee to any Agency that does not have such an agreement in place. Agency agreements will only be valid if in writing and signed by Brennan's Chief Human Resources Officer or his/her designee. No other Brennan employee is authorized to bind Brennan to any agreement regarding the placement of candidate by Agencies.
Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact Human Capital at:
Phone: 608-784-7173
Email: jobs@jfbrennan.com
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.
If you want to view the Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal poster and/or view the Pay Transparency Policy State please click here.
For more information on federal labor laws please click here.