Barge Deckhand

McMillen Inc.; Russellville (AR); On-site; USD 36,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Per Diem $600/week (70+ miles)

Job summary

McMillen, Inc. is seeking a skilled Barge Deckhand to support rigging, lifting, and construction tasks for water resources projects.

The role involves assembling and operating rigging gear, handling heavy loads near water, and following strict safety protocols on outdoor sites in Arkansas. Responsibilities include collaborating with engineers and project teams, inspecting equipment, and maintaining records.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical rigging training is a plus.
• Valid certification in rigging or crane operation (e.g., NCCCO).
• Minimum 2–3 years as a deckhand on a barge or large vessel.

Responsibilities

• Assemble, install, and operate rigging equipment to lift and position heavy loads.
• Secure loads using proper rigging methods and ensure safe transport.
• Inspect rigging tools regularly and report defects.
• Perform routine maintenance and assist engineers and project teams.
• Follow lift plans and provide input on feasibility and efficiency.
• Assist in construction or demolition of structures and load materials.
• Maintain tools, fabricate/assemble forms, and construct scaffolding.
• Dig trenches, lay pipes, and create temporary roads.
• Clean up sites and transport materials; maintain records of inspections.
• Train teammates on rigging techniques and safety protocols.

Skills

Rigging equipment proficiency

Blueprint reading

Load calculations

Safety awareness

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical rigging training (a plus)

Certification such as NCCCO or OSHA-compliant

Tools

Slings

Shackles

Chains

Hoists

Job description

Design a career and build your future... Because it matters!

Barge Deckhand

McMillen, Inc. is seeking a skilled and safety-consciousBarge Deckhandto join our team. This person will play a crucial role in assisting with the setup, operation, and construction of water resource infrastructure projects. This includes lifting, positioning, and securing heavy equipment, machinery, and structural components at construction sites, ensuring all tasks are performed safely and efficiently.

This is seasonal position working out of Fort Smith, AR.

All Construction Division offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check and drug screen. In accordance with client requirements, security clearance is required and is determined based on background check results

Who we are:

McMillen, Inc. designs and builds solutions that shape the future of water resources. As an employee-owned firm, we take pride in every project because we know our work truly matters. Our people thrive on solving complex challenges, pushing boundaries, and refining their craft. We don't look for the complacent or the comfortable. We seek problem solvers, innovators, and experts who are always striving to be better. We support continuous learning, cutting-edge technology, and a balanced work-life environment so our employees can build careers they're proud of.

We are focused in the dams, energy, fisheries, natural resources, and infrastructure markets. Our people integrate engineering, environmental, and construction expertise to deliver practical, results‑driven outcomes. From concept to completion, projects are guided through feasibility studies, permitting, design, construction, and commissioning, ensuring technical precision and real‑world functionality.

Responsibilities:

• Assemble, install, and operate rigging equipment, including cranes, hoists, and pulleys, to lift and position heavy loads.
• Secure loads using appropriate rigging methods, ensuring safe and stable transport.
• Inspect rigging tools and equipment regularly to ensure proper functioning.
• Perform routine maintenance and report any equipment defects or repairs needed.
• Collaborate with engineers, project managers, and construction teams to understand load requirements and project goals.
• Follow detailed lift plans and provide input on rigging feasibility and efficiency.
• Assist in construction or demolition of various structures.
• Load and unload materials and move materials in work areas.
• Maintain tools and equipment.
• Assist in the fabrication, assembly and stripping of concrete forms.
• Construct scaffolding.
• Dig trenches and place pipes or cables.
• Construct and maintain temporary roads or pathways.
• Clean up work sites.
• Take delivery of materials and cargo from suppliers.
• Inventory material, tools and supplies.
• Adhere to all workplace safety regulations and company policies.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure safety measures are in place during lifting operations.
• Train and guide team members on proper rigging techniques as needed.
• Maintain records of rigging inspections, equipment usage, and safety protocols.
• Assist in creating detailed reports for project progress and equipment usage.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical training in rigging or related fields is a plus.
• Valid certification in rigging or crane operation (e.g., NCCCO, OSHA-compliant certification).
• Minimum 2-3 years of experience working as a deckhand on a barge or large vessel required.
• Proficiency in using rigging equipment, such as slings, shackles, chains, and hoists.
• Strong understanding of weight calculations, load balancing, and safe rigging practices.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.
• Experience working around cranes and knowledge of rigging crane loads strongly preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and load charts.
• Physical fitness and ability to work in outdoor environments, including around water and at heights.
• Experience with water‑related infrastructure projects, such as dams, pipelines, or treatment facilities.
• Familiarity with hydraulic and mechanical systems used in water resource projects.
• Knowledge of environmental and regulatory compliance for water construction sites.

Work Environment:

• Outdoor construction sites, often near or on water.
• May involve lifting heavy objects, working at heights, and exposure to varying weather conditions.
• Frequent travel to project locations is required.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The inability to cope with a stressful work environment does not constitute a protected disability.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is seldom required to sit. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear; work at elevated heights. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Compensation Package:

• Pay Range: $26 - $30 base wage
• Benefits: $600 per week Per Diem if temporarily assigned 70+ miles from residence.

EEO:

McMillen, Inc. is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and will make all employment related decisions without race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Visa sponsorship, including renewal during employment, will not be provided for this position.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.