Deck Hand

American Electric Power; Metropolis (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

American Electric Power in Metropolis, IL seeks a Deckhand to support harbor operations under the Pilot’s direction. You will rig and secure barges, handle lines, guide the pilot in landings, and maintain barge decks and related equipment.

The role requires a High School diploma or GED and involves seven 12-hour shifts followed by seven days off. Company safety rules and radios are used for communication and coordination.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED equivalency is required.
• Shiftwork consists of seven straight 12-hour days, followed by seven days off.

Responsibilities

• Rig barges and secure to boat using proper rigging and deck equipment.
• Handle lines and barges; secure to moorings, other barges, or banks.
• Ride barges in harbor to guide pilot into proper landing position.
• Inspect and maintain barge decks and pumping systems.
• Clean decks, pilot house, galley, and other areas; store equipment properly.

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

Job Posting End Date11-11-2026Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end dateJob SummaryThe Deckhand, under the direction of the Pilot, is responsible for all duties associated with handling and loading of barges within the harbor.Job DescriptionWhat You’ll Do:Properly rig barges and secure to the boat using correct rigging and deck equipment.Handle lines, rigging & barges; secure barges or boat to mooring facilities, other barges or bank using proper rigging and deck equipment.Ride the barges within the harbor, signaling information to the pilot house in order to guide the pilot into proper landing position.Inspect & maintain barge decks, pumping, etc.Clean and hose down decks, store & load equipment properly, clean pilot house, lounges, bathrooms, galley & engineer rooms.Obtain freeboard, draft, & list readings on barges and signal this information to the barge loader control cab to assist in the proper loading of the barges.Effectively communicate information to other employees using the company radio system.Maintain records and inspection sheets as required.Couple and uncouple railcars, signal employees operating locomotives to indicate proper movements or stops, operate switches, and set and release brakes.Inspect, check, clean, and make minor adjustments on conveyor, coal handling, and yard equipment.Perform duties in accordance with the Company's safety rules, operating regulations, & practices & report unsafe conditions.Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.What We’re Looking for:High School diploma and/or GED equivalency.Shiftwork required consisting of seven straight days – 12 hour shifts, then seven days off.What You’ll Get:In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do!At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!Compensation DataCompensation Grade:U046-656Compensation Range:$39.26 - $39.26The Physical Demand Level for this job is: M – Medium Work: Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Light Work.Hear about it first! Get job alerts by email. Log in to your Candidate Home Account today! If you don't have an account, you can create one.It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.