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Deckhand Entry Level Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Foss Maritime

Dredge Deckhand/Engineer

Richmond, CA · On-site

The Deckhand/Engineer is responsible under the direction of the Captain and Leverman to assist in ... This is an entry level position with opportunities for advancement. Minimum Qualifications:

Curtin Maritime

Deckhand Trainee

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Curtin Maritime is committed to creating a high paying career path for our entry level employees. Due to the diverse nature of our work, new employees can purse a career on a tug boat, from deckhand ...

Curtin Maritime

Deckhand Trainee

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Curtin Maritime is committed to creating a high paying career path for our entry level employees. Due to the diverse nature of our work, new employees can purse a career on a tug boat, from deckhand ...

Curtin Maritime, Corp

Deckhand Trainee

Long Beach, CA

$16.90/hr

Curtin Maritime is committed to creating a high paying career path for our entry level employees. Due to the diverse nature of our work, new employees can purse a career on a tug boat, from deckhand ...

All JobsDeckhand JobsDeckhand Entry Level JobsDeckhand Entry Level Jobs in California

Deckhand Entry Level information

What is an entry level deckhand?

An Entry Level Deckhand is responsible for basic tasks on a vessel, such as cleaning, maintaining equipment, and assisting with docking procedures. They work under the supervision of senior crew members to ensure the ship operates smoothly. No prior experience is typically required, but physical fitness and a willingness to learn are essential. This role is a starting point for a maritime career and offers opportunities for advancement with experience and certifications.

What does an entry level deckhand do?

A typical day for an Entry Level Deckhand often involves assisting with routine maintenance, handling lines during docking and undocking, cleaning decks, and ensuring all equipment is in good working order. You may rotate through shifts and work both indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions, depending on the vessel's schedule. Deckhands frequently collaborate with other crew members and supervisors, following safety procedures and responding to instructions quickly. While the work can be physically demanding, it provides valuable hands-on experience and a clear pathway to more advanced maritime roles as you gain skills and certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level deckhand?

To thrive as an Entry Level Deckhand, you need physical stamina, basic seamanship knowledge, and the ability to follow instructions carefully, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety equipment, marine radios, personal protective gear, and sometimes a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) or basic safety training certification is beneficial. Strong teamwork, reliability, and good communication skills are essential soft skills that help you collaborate efficiently with the crew. These attributes are crucial for maintaining safety, ensuring smooth vessel operations, and succeeding in the dynamic and sometimes physically demanding maritime environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Deckhand jobs in California?

The most popular types of Deckhand jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Deckhand Entry Level jobs?

Cities in California with the most Deckhand Entry Level job openings:

Deckhand Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Deckhand Entry Level job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Dredge Deckhand/Engineer

Foss Maritime

Richmond, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

The Deckhand/Engineer is responsible under the direction of the Captain and Leverman to assist in the safe and efficient operation and maintenance of the dredge and associated machinery and equipment. The Deckhand/Engineer is responsible for monitoring and tending barge equipment during loads and offloads to include line-handling, operating machinery + conveyor belts, and engine room rounds. During down time the Deckhand/Engineer will assist maintaining equipment to include deck preservation, fabrication, and machinery repair. This is an entry level position with opportunities for advancement.


Minimum Qualifications:

  • Organizational and communication skills for effective teamwork.
  • Ability to think through unexpected events effectively.
  • Ambition, creativity, resolve, common sense and good judgment for effective problem solving.
  • Administrative skills to maintain records and inventories.
  • Basic computer literacy.
  • Must join the Inland Boatmen's Union within 30 days of hire.
  • Valid driver's license from State of residence.
  • Valid Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) with Ordinary Seaman endorsement (OS)
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Commercial maritime experience, to include line handling and seamanship.
  • Welding/fabrication experience, pipe-fitting.
  • Aptitude for operating machinery, previous experience with heavy machinery.
  • Basic Hydraulics
  • Basic Electrical
  • Basic Mechanics
  • Basic Rigging

How to Apply:

Ready to set sail with Foss? Submit your application via our careers page. If you need any assistance, please reach out to fossjobs@foss.com. We look forward to welcoming you aboard.

Drug Free Workplace:

Foss Maritime Company LLC is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Foss Maritime Company LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.


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