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Contract Deckhand Fishing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

@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 ...

... Deckhand ). Essential Duties Mates must be able to: * Perform vessel navigation and fishing ... Work at least 16 hours per day, 7 days per week for the duration of the contract. * Perform ...

... Deckhand ). Essential Duties Mates must be able to: * Perform vessel navigation and fishing ... Work at least 16 ½ hours per day, 7 days per week for the duration of the contract. * Perform ...

... Deckhand ). Essential Duties Mates must be able to: * Perform vessel navigation and fishing ... Work at least 16 ½ hours per day, 7 days per week for the duration of the contract. * Perform ...

Ocean Peace is accepting applications for seafood processors to work on factory trawlers fishing in ... of the contract. -Perform repetitive tasks for extended periods -Lift weights up to and over 50 ...

Contract Deckhand Fishing information

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$12

$21

$30

How much do contract deckhand fishing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract deckhand fishing 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 a contract deckhand fishing?

Contract deckhand fishing jobs involve working on commercial fishing vessels under a contract agreement, assisting with tasks such as setting and hauling fishing gear, sorting and cleaning the catch, and maintaining equipment. Deckhands must follow safety protocols and work long hours in varying weather conditions. These positions are usually temporary or seasonal and require physical stamina, teamwork, and sometimes specific certifications or training depending on the type of fishing and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract deckhand fishing?

To thrive as a Contract Deckhand Fishing, you need strong physical fitness, basic seamanship, and familiarity with fishing gear, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Experience with marine safety equipment, navigation systems, and possibly STCW or first aid certifications is typically required. Teamwork, resilience, and a strong work ethic are crucial soft skills for handling long hours and challenging conditions at sea. These skills ensure safe and efficient fishing operations while maintaining productivity and safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by contract deckhand fishing crew members, and how can they be managed?

Contract deckhand fishing crew members often face challenges such as long, physically demanding hours, unpredictable weather conditions, and the need to quickly adapt to varying fishing methods or equipment. Effective communication with the captain and other crew is essential for safety and efficiency, especially when working in tight quarters. To manage these challenges, it's helpful to maintain good physical fitness, develop a strong understanding of safety protocols, and foster teamwork skills, as successful fishing operations rely on close collaboration and support among crew members.

What is the difference between Contract Deckhand Fishing vs Crew Member in Commercial Fishing?

AspectContract Deckhand FishingCrew Member in Commercial Fishing
CertificationsBasic safety and survival certifications, STCW if applicableSimilar safety certifications, often the same requirements
Work EnvironmentOn fishing vessels, often seasonal or contract-basedOn fishing vessels, similar environment
Job RoleAssist with fishing operations, maintenance, and deck dutiesPerform deck work, handling gear, and supporting fishing activities

Both Contract Deckhand Fishing and Crew Member in Commercial Fishing roles involve working on fishing vessels, performing deck duties, and requiring safety certifications. The main difference lies in the employment arrangement, with Contract Deckhand Fishing typically being a temporary, contract-based position, while Crew Members may have more permanent or ongoing roles. Both positions are essential in the fishing industry and share similar work environments and responsibilities.

What cities are hiring for Contract Deckhand Fishing jobs?

Cities with the most Contract Deckhand Fishing job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Deckhand Fishing jobs?

The most popular types of Deckhand Fishing jobs are:

What states have the most Contract Deckhand Fishing jobs?

States with the most job openings for Contract Deckhand Fishing jobs include:

Infographic showing various Contract Deckhand Fishing job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,879 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Experienced Deckhand - Factory Trawler

Dutch Harbor, AK • On-site

United States Seafoods LLC
Aquaculture and Fishing • 201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description:

United States Seafoods is a Commercial Fishing Company with factory trawlers out of Alaska. We are looking for experienced deck crew members to work on board our vessels. We are looking for full-time, long-term employees who are willing to work a rotating schedule throughout the year.


United States Seafoods is currently recruiting for a qualified & experienced deckhand to work on one of our factory trawlers. A qualified & experienced deckhand should have previous experience working on deck of a commercial fishing vessel and be skilled in working with and repairing bottom trawl nets.


United States Seafoods fishes from January to November. Crew size varies from 4-5 on our Catchers Vessels and 50 -70 on our Factory Trawlers.


A Deckhand will -

  • Set and haul back fishing nets and transfer bags to/from catcher vessels
  • Maintain and repair fishing gear and nets
  • Operate cranes and other deck machinery
  • Maintain all fishing gear and deck equipment
  • Operate skiff
  • Load equipment and supplies aboard vessel
  • Keep deck gear and storage areas clean and organized
  • Maintain all work areas in a safe and seaworthy condition
  • Assist in factory as needed (if on Factory Trawler)
  • Assist in Engine help or Wheel Watch as needed (if on Catcher Vessel)
  • Compensation is a Crewshare (which is a percentage of the value of the catch)
Requirements:
  • Experience as a deckhand on a trawl vessel
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen
  • Must be available for the full contract period (Approx. up to 90 days)


EEO Policy: The Company's equal employment opportunity policy prohibits unlawful discrimination with respect to race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, color, religion, creed, national origin, disability, veteran or other status protected by applicable law.


EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disability