Barge Utility - Red Dog

fossmaritime; Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Room and board provided

High-speed internet

Modern on-site accommodations

Job summary

Foss Maritime in Tacoma, WA is seeking a Utility position that involves operating heavy equipment, supervising ore loading, and performing maintenance tasks. This role requires working in various seasonal operations, including transporting ore in Alaska during the summer.

Candidates must possess a valid TWIC card and be ready to participate in monthly blood testing as part of safety compliance. The position also involves extensive teamwork and communication responsibilities.

Qualifications

• Proper use and maintenance of issued safety equipment.
• Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures.
• Clear communication with team members.

Responsibilities

• Perform maintenance and repair tasks during scheduled lay periods.
• Assist the Maintenance Department with machinery upkeep.
• Operate loaders and supervise ore loading operations.

Skills

Operating heavy equipment

Safety compliance

Communication

Education

Valid TWIC card

Job description

Job Overview

The Utility position involves multiple responsibilities, including operating Caterpillar front-end loaders, supervising ore barge loading and discharge operations, and performing Rover Mechanic duties on lighterage barges. This role also includes participating in maintenance, repairs, and cleaning tasks as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Perform maintenance and repair tasks during scheduled lay periods as directed.
• Assist the Maintenance Department with the repair and upkeep of operating machinery, conveyors, pumps, fluid dynamics systems, and vacuum systems.
• Operate loaders and small backhoe for loading and discharge operations, as required.
• Supervise and assist with the loading of ore concentrate onto the hopper deck of the ore barge, as needed.
• Oversee and guide the cleaning team to ensure thorough cleaning of conveyor systems during loading operations.

Schedule and Living Arrangements

• January to Late May: Maintenance & Repair (M&R) Season -- Tacoma, WA
  • Schedule: 4 days a week, Monday to Thursday, 10-hour shifts
  • Work:
    • Maintenance and repairs on lighterage barges
    • Training in heavy equipment operation
    • Assisting with electrical and hydraulic repairs
    • Working with an experienced team
• Late May to Late June: Break
  • No work is performed.
• Late June to End of October: Operations at Red Dog Mine -- Northwest Alaska
  • Living Arrangements:
    • Stay in modern accommodations with room, board, and high-speed internet included
    • Amenities: gym, sauna, game room, pool table, movie room, basketball court
  • Schedule: 6 hours on / 6 hours off (weather permitting)
    • Work is focused on transporting ore using barges
    • Work weeks average ~70 hours
• November 1 to Late November: Break
  • No work is performed as barges return to Tacoma.
• Late November to Mid-December: Winterizing Barges -- Tacoma, WA
  • Work: Prepping barges for winter storage
• Mid-December to New Year's: Break
  • No work is performed.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Safety & Compliance: Must properly use and maintain issued safety equipment.
• Operational Knowledge: Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (Barge Lighterage Manual).
• Reliability & Communication: Maintain regular attendance and clear communication with the team.
• Required Certification: Valid TWIC card (or willingness to obtain one).
• This role requires participation in the Lead Compliance Program with respect to monthly blood testing, fitting and proper utilization of respiratory protection.

Foss Maritime Company is an Equal Opportunity - Affi­

Employer and a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We are committed to a diverse workforce and taking affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. Foss is a drug‑free employer and a participant of the E‑Verify Employment Verification Program.