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Deckhand Tankerman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vitus Energy, LLC

Tankerman

Anchorage, AK

$24.75 - $28.50/hr

Tankerman will execute Deckhand duties while underway / or during non-fueling operations, to include handling lines and rigging during docking activities, standing anchor watch, assisting in radio ...

Terral RiverService

TANKERMAN

Houston, TX · On-site

$23.75 - $27.75/hr

The TRS Tankerman is responsible for safely preparing barges for the loading and discharging of ... Providing guidance and training to deckhands and new tankermen. * Assisting wheelhouse personnel in ...

Vitus Energy LLC

Tankerman

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$64K/yr

Tankerman will execute Deckhand duties while underway / or during non-fueling operations, to include handling lines and rigging during docking activities, standing anchor watch, assisting in radio ...

Vitus Energy LLC

Tankerman

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$66K/yr

Tankerman will execute Deckhand duties while underway / or during non-fueling operations, to include handling lines and rigging during docking activities, standing anchor watch, assisting in radio ...

Terral River Service Inc

TANKERMAN

Channelview, TX

$21.50 - $25/hr

The TRS Tankerman is responsible for safely preparing barges for the loading and discharging of ... Providing guidance and training to deckhands and new tankermen. * Assisting wheelhouse personnel in ...

TerralRiver Service

TANKERMAN

Channelview, TX · On-site

$21.50 - $25/hr

The TRS Tankerman is responsible for safely preparing barges for the loading and discharging of ... Providing guidance and training to deckhands and new tankermen. * Assisting wheelhouse personnel in ...

Terral RiverService

TANKERMAN

Channelview, TX · On-site

$21.50 - $25/hr

The TRS Tankerman is responsible for safely preparing barges for the loading and discharging of ... Providing guidance and training to deckhands and new tankermen. * Assisting wheelhouse personnel in ...

Vitus Energy LLC

Deckhand

Anchorage, AK · On-site

The Deckhand is responsible for handling lines and rigging during docking and undocking activities ... and Tankerman and cooking * Participates in drills and responds as emergency team member during ...

Parker Towing

Tankerman (PIC)

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

Tankerman (PIC) The primary function for all qualified candidates is the ability to prepare ... Providing guidance and training to deckhands and new tankermen. * Assisting wheelhouse personnel in ...

Parker Towing Company

Tankerman (PIC)

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

Tankerman (PIC) The primary function for all qualified candidates is the ability to prepare ... Providing guidance and training to deckhands and new tankermen. * Assisting wheelhouse personnel in ...

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All JobsDeckhand Tankerman Jobs

Deckhand Tankerman information

See salary details

$12

$21

$30

How much do deckhand tankerman jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for deckhand tankerman 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 are some common challenges Deckhand Tankermen face while working on inland barges?

Deckhand Tankermen often contend with physically demanding tasks, such as handling heavy lines, connecting hoses, and working in various weather conditions. Strict adherence to safety and environmental protocols is essential, as the role involves transferring hazardous liquids and complying with regulatory standards. The job usually requires working in shifts, including nights and weekends, and maintaining clear communication with the crew and shore-side personnel to ensure safe operations. Teamwork and adaptability are key to managing unexpected situations like equipment malfunctions or changing river conditions.

What's the difference between a tankerman and a deckhand?

A deckhand is a general maritime worker responsible for maintenance, cargo handling, and assisting with vessel operations, while a tankerman specializes in handling and transferring liquid cargoes, such as fuel or chemicals, often requiring specific certifications. The tankerman role involves knowledge of safety procedures related to hazardous materials and may require additional training compared to a deckhand.

What is the difference between Deckhand Tankerman vs Deckhand?

AspectDeckhand TankermanDeckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Tankerman EndorsementSTCW Basic Safety
Work EnvironmentTank vessels, chemical/oil tankersGeneral cargo, passenger ships
Job DutiesHandling cargo, tank cleaning, safety proceduresDeck maintenance, mooring, general cargo handling

The main difference between a Deckhand Tankerman and a Deckhand is that the Tankerman has specialized training and certifications for handling liquid cargo in tanks, whereas a Deckhand performs general deck duties. The Deckhand Tankerman's role involves more technical skills related to cargo safety and transfer, making their responsibilities more specialized within the maritime industry.

How much does a tankerman get paid?

A deckhand tankerman typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the type of vessel. Pay can also include overtime, hazard pay, and benefits, with some positions offering higher wages for specialized skills or longer shifts.

Is it hard to become a tankerman?

Becoming a deckhand tankerman requires gaining relevant maritime experience, completing safety and tankerman certification courses, and passing a background check. The process involves hands-on training and understanding of cargo handling and safety protocols, but it is accessible with proper training and experience in the maritime industry.

Where do deckhands get paid the most?

Deckhands, including Tankermen, tend to earn the highest wages in regions with high demand for maritime work, such as major port cities and areas with busy shipping routes. Salaries are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the type of vessel, with offshore and deep-sea positions generally offering higher pay than inland or coastal jobs.

What are Deckhand Tankermen?

Deckhand Tankermen are specialized crew members who work on tank barges and vessels, assisting with both deck operations and the safe transfer of liquid cargo such as petroleum or chemicals. They are trained and certified to handle hazardous materials and perform tasks like connecting hoses, monitoring gauges, and ensuring environmental and safety regulations are followed during loading and unloading. In addition to cargo handling, Deckhand Tankermen also perform general deck duties like line handling, maintenance, and cleaning. Their role is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of tank barges on inland and coastal waterways.

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

To succeed as a Deckhand Tankerman, you need a solid understanding of maritime operations, safety protocols, and hazardous material handling, typically backed by a valid Merchant Mariner Credential with Tankerman endorsement. Familiarity with cargo transfer systems, personal protective equipment (PPE), and industry regulations like OSHA and US Coast Guard standards is essential. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help ensure smooth and safe operations in dynamic environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial to prevent accidents, maintain regulatory compliance, and support efficient barge operations.
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Deckhand Tankerman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Deckhand Tankerman job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,879 per year, or $21.6 per hour.
Fleet Boat Deckhand- Freeport, TX

Fleet Boat Deckhand- Freeport, TX

Kirby Corporation

Channelview, TX

$155/day

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Overview

***You MUST live within 45 minutes of Freeport, TX to be eligible for this position***

Deckhands build tows by handling lines and cables to tie/untie barges and boats. Deckhands also perform scheduled vessel maintenance for tools and equipment, and perform general housekeeping duties as assigned by their supervisor.

 

***This is a deckhand position working on a fleet boat. This position does not follow the Tankerman Career Path.***

Those interested in working on a "live aboard" vessel that do not live within 45 minutes of Freeport area, should apply to the "Entry Level Inland Deckhand" or "Intermediate & Experienced Inland Deckhand" Position.

Responsibilities

Deckhands will adhere to company safety policy and procedures, environmental rules and governmental regulation.

Deckhands work under the supervision of the Master or designate.

Basic Functions:

  • Attaches and removes line and cables to and from the vessel, barges, docks and locks. This involves carrying coiled lines, ratchets, rigging, cables or other equipment from line lockers, deck lockers, or Ability to use fire fighting equipment and spill containment equipment.
  • Cables to attachment sites, making attachments using manual or power winches to tighten lines or cables, and monitoring and adjusting lines and tension during towing, loading, discharging, locking or docking.
  • Unties and reties lines 4 to 8 times during loading and discharging in order to adjust for the changing height of the barge, relative to the height of other barges, the dock and the vessel.
  • Maintains vessel by performing scheduled maintenance and housekeeping such as sweeping, sougeing, chipping rusted metal, priming and painting.
  • Makes minor repairs such as tightening bolts, replacing fluid and air lines, hanging light bulbs, replacing equipment such as cables, winches, pumps and fan belts.
  • Uses tools such as hammers, fire axes, ratchets, hand winches, stripping pumps, needle guns and grinders with two hands.
    • Qualifications

    WORK CONDITIONS

    • The schedule is either 14 days on/7 days off. 12 Hours shifts working days and nights.
    • Must be able to work in inclement weather outdoor, heat and cold.
    • Must be willing and able to attend paid required training on and off scheduled work time.
    • Must have reliable transportation and be able to drive to/from vessel location.

    COMPENSATION

    • $155/DAY, PLUS BENEFITS (MEDICAL/DENTAL/VISION/401K, ETC.)

    QUALIFICATIONS, COMPETENCIES AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

    • Valid TWIC card must be in hand prior to applying. Need a TWIC card? Apply here.
    • Must possess a valid driver's license
    • Must not have a DWI or DUI in the last three years
    • Must not have more than 2 moving driving violations in the last 3 years
    • Must be able to satisfy all United States Coast Guard physical requirements (CG-719K) and as found in 46 CFR Part 10
    • Must be able to satisfy all United States Coast Guard Chemical Drug Testing Programs for Vessel Personnel, as found in 46 CFR Part 10
    • Must be able to satisfy all United States Coast Guard physical requirements
    • Must be able to pass company requirements of 46 CFR Part 197 Subpart C Benzene
    • Valid state issued birth certificate required.
    • Valid social security card required
    • Must be 18 years of age
    • Cannot have any criminal charges pending or be on probation
    • Must be able to read and write English
    • Ability to understand written and verbal orders
    • Must not be color blind

    PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

    • Walk - Must be able to walk 2-3 miles per day
    • Step - Must be able to step 2ft vertical and 2ft horizontal
    • Reach - Must be able to extend arms fully throughout a normal range of motion both in a horizontal and vertical plane (i.e., throwing and catching lines)
    • Climb - Must be able to climb a 90 degree vertical ladder 25-30 feet, and carry weight while climbing
    • Grip/Hold/Pull - Must be able to grip, hold and pull 50lbs
    • Lift - Must be able to lift 75lbs.
    • Lift & Carry - Must be able to lift and carry 50 lbs for approximately 350 feet
    • Vision - Color vision and eyesight must be sufficient to pass an eye test as required to obtain a merchant mariners credential. This requires an uncorrected vision of at least 20/200 in each eye corrected to 20/40 in each eye
    • Hearing - Must meet minimum standards, as per USCG requirements
    • Speech - Must be able to verbally communicate in the English language both in delivery and ability to be understood using handheld radios or other devices, as required
    • Smell - Must possess a sense of smell to be able to detect the presence of potentially dangerous vapors
    • Pulmonary Functions - Must pass a pulmonary function test with a minimum score of 75%
    • General - Must be able to enter and exit hatches/doorways quickly in case of emergency.
    • Equipment - Must be able to wear a negative or positive pressure respirator, PVC foul weather gear, personal flotation device, rubber gloves and boots. 
    • Ability to use firefighting / spill containment equipment
    Employment Type: FULL_TIME

    Apply