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Deckhand Tankerman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

genesis

Tankerman Marine Vessels Inland

Houston, TX

Tankerman duties vary from vessel to vessel and from watch to watch. The Master sets the watch-standing schedule and posts the duty list for the crew. The Master or his relief must ensure that the ...

genesis

Tankerman Marine Vessels Inland

Houston, TX · On-site

Tankerman duties vary from vessel to vessel and from watch to watch. The Master sets the watch-standing schedule and posts the duty list for the crew. The Master or his relief must ensure that the ...

Centerline Logistics Corporation

Chief Mate

Bayonne, NJ · On-site

Instructs Deckhands in seamanship skills. * Assists Captain in barge landings and must be able to ... Services provided include the transportation and storage of petroleum products, tanker escort, ship ...

Foss Maritime

Senior Deckhand (NorCal)

Oakland, CA

Drain water out of air tanks every day. Check oil in auxiliary and main engines before starting. * Change oil and filter as needed. A general maintenance checklist is provided explaining what ...

AmNav Maritime

Senior Deckhand (NorCal)

Oakland, CA · On-site

Drain water out of air tanks every day. Check oil in auxiliary and main engines before starting. * Change oil and filter as needed. A general maintenance checklist is provided explaining what ...

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All JobsDeckhand Tankerman Jobs

Deckhand Tankerman information

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$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.
More about Deckhand Tankerman jobs
What cities are hiring for Deckhand Tankerman jobs? Cities with the most Deckhand Tankerman job openings:
What states have the most Deckhand Tankerman jobs? States with the most job openings for Deckhand Tankerman jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Deckhand Tankerman jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Deckhand Tankerman jobs are:
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.
Experienced Inland Tank Barge PIC

Experienced Inland Tank Barge PIC

Kirby Corporation

Channelview, TX

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Overview

Tank Barge PIC prepare barges for the loading and discharging of cargoes, and perform all loading and discharging activities. They build tow by handling lines and cables to tie and untie barges and boats. Tank Barge PIC connect and disconnect transfer hoses. They perform scheduled vessel maintenance care for tools and equipment, and perform general housekeeping duties as assigned by their supervisor. They adhere to company safety policies and procedures and governmental regulations. They work under the supervision of the Captain/Master.  

Responsibilities

Job Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Adhere to Company safety policies and procedures.
  • Perform scheduled vessel maintenance. Perform general housekeeping duties on vessel and barge.
  • Adhere to Government regulations and environmental rules.
  • Build tow by handling lines and cables to tie and untie barges and boats.
  • Make minor repairs to boats and barges.
  • Train deckhands to become Tankerman.
  • Prepare barges for loading and discharging cargo.
  • Load and discharge barges and vessel fuels/lubes.
  • Connect and disconnect transfer hose(s).
  • Care for tools and equipment for boat and barges.
  • Work as directed by Captain/Master or Wheelman on Watch.
  • Expected to progress according to Company training programs.
  • Expected to further his/her education by attending and successfully completing sponsored tankerman training.
Qualifications

Job Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Adhere to Company safety policies and procedures.
  • Perform scheduled vessel maintenance. Perform general housekeeping duties on vessel and barge.
  • Adhere to Government regulations and environmental rules.
  • Build tow by handling lines and cables to tie and untie barges and boats.
  • Make minor repairs to boats and barges.
  • Train deckhands to become Tankerman.
  • Prepare barges for loading and discharging cargo.
  • Load and discharge barges and vessel fuels/lubes.
  • Connect and disconnect transfer hose(s).
  • Care for tools and equipment for boat and barges.
  • Work as directed by Captain/Master or Wheelman on Watch.
  • Expected to progress according to Company training programs.
  • Expected to further his/her education by attending and successfully completing sponsored tankerman training.
Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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