Deckhand

Shaver Transportation; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 32,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid vacation

Retirement contribution

Health benefits

Sick leave

Job summary

Shaver Transportation in Portland, OR, seeks a Deckhand to support tugboat and barge operations along the Columbia, Willamette and Snake Rivers. You will join crews, secure vessels, perform lookouts, and assist with maintenance while adapting to busy, hands-on marine work.

Qualified candidates are prepared for physical labor, weather and shift work, and must pursue MMC and Food Handler credentials promptly. This is a team-focused, on-site role with opportunities for career progression.

Qualifications

• Able to perform physically demanding work - standing, climbing, lifting 80+ lbs, and working in tight, confined vessel spaces.
• Willing to obtain a Merchant Mariner's Credential (MMC) and Food Handler endorsement within 15 days of hire, and hold a TWIC card.
• Able to pass a medical exam, background check, and USCG-mandated drug and alcohol testing.
• Comfortable working in all weather, all hours - day, swing, and graveyard shifts, including multi-day up-river tours.
• A valid driver's license is required for crew-transport duties between vessel and terminal.

Responsibilities

• Handle lines, rigging, and tow-building - securing vessels, making up and breaking down barge tows, and assisting through river lockages
• Stand lookout, operate deck equipment, and support real‑time emergency response and shipboard evolutions
• Perform engine room checks, preventive maintenance, and general vessel upkeep
• Assist with meal prep and galley duties (Food Handler credential required)
• Work as part of a tight‑knit crew in a fast‑paced, hands‑on marine environment

Skills

Merchant Mariner Credential

TWIC Card

Physical stamina

Teamwork

Safety awareness

Job description

Deckhand - Tugboat & Barge Operations

Portland, OR | Columbia, Willamette & Snake Rivers, Near Coastal Waters

Shaver Transportation has been powering river and coastal towing operations since 1880. We're hiring Deckhands to join our crews aboard tugboats and barges, working alongside experienced Captains to keep our vessels running safely and efficiently around the clock.

What You'll Do

• Handle lines, rigging, and tow-building - securing vessels, making up and breaking down barge tows, and assisting through river lockages
• Stand lookout, operate deck equipment, and support real‑time emergency response and shipboard evolutions
• Perform engine room checks, preventive maintenance, and general vessel upkeep
• Assist with meal prep and galley duties (Food Handler credential required)
• Work as part of a tight‑knit crew in a fast‑paced, hands‑on marine environment

What We're Looking For

• Able to perform physically demanding work - standing, climbing, lifting 80+ lbs, and working in tight, confined vessel spaces, with or without reasonable accommodation
• Willing to obtain a Merchant Mariner's Credential (MMC) and Food Handler endorsement within 15 days of hire, and hold a TWIC card
• Able to pass a medical exam, background check, and USCG-mandated drug and alcohol testing
• Comfortable working in all weather, all hours - day, swing, and graveyard shifts, including multi-day up‑river tours
• A valid driver's license is required for crew‑transport duties between vessel and terminal

Why Shaver

Deckhands join the MM&P bargaining unit on day one, with a clear path to full wage rate and seniority after 1,040 hours and completion of our Safety Management System training. From there, the rewards build fast:

• paid vacation starting at one week in your first year and growing to six weeks with tenure
• a company‑funded retirement contribution plus a matching 401(k)
• health and welfare benefits through the MM&P Health and Benefit Plan
• a paid sick leave bank that begins 90 days after hire and grows with your service

This is a career track, not just a job!

Equal Employment Opportunity

Shaver Transportation shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a), and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as Protected Veterans or Individuals with Disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Covered prime contractors and subcontractors must take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.

Shaver Transportation Company is committed to providing equal employment opportunity in all of its employment practices. Employment decisions are made without regard to any status or characteristic protected under applicable local, state, or federal law.