Deckhand

American Electric Power; West Columbia (WV); On-site; USD 172,000 - 245,000; Full time

Job summary

American Electric Power is seeking a Deckhand to ensure safe, efficient operations, barge preparation for loading and unloading, and regular maintenance of vessels. You will work with teammates on the vessel, perform line handling, rigging tasks, and housekeeping to uphold high safety standards.

Responsibilities include inspections of gear, splicing cables, and following the Employee Handbook and RCP procedures. On-call availability and travel may be required as part of the role.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required or equivalent.
• Must have current valid driver’s license.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks safely.

Responsibilities

• Handle lines and rigging during tow building, locking and docking.
• Perform general housekeeping including painting, brushing and lubrication.
• Load and unload supplies from dock or vessels, and maintain the vessel.
• Inspect rigging and deck equipment for proper operation and safety.
• Splice and repair wire cables and ropes as needed.
• Follow all company safety rules and report issues to supervisor.

Skills

Teamwork

Safety awareness

Strong work ethic

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Job Posting End Date11-10-2026Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end dateJob SummaryPosition Competencies:, This is a culture of high involvement and agility, where employees collaborate to foster mutual care for one another and demonstrate a shared commitment to common goals., Successful candidates for this position are strong team players with a dedication to quality and safety in the workplace. They are resilient and persistently drive for results in an ever-changing environment. Candidates have a high energy level and continually look for learning and improvement opportunities., Brief Description of Job:, Responsible for the safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant, carrying out of assigned duties. Primary function of a Deckhand is to build and break tow., Deckhand will work with other team mates on the vessel and prepare barges for loading and, unloading cargo. Perform planned maintenance on equipment and tools, and perform, regular clean-up work as assigned by supervisor.Job DescriptionWhat you’ll do:Essential Job Functions & TasksMust be able to handle lines and rigging during tow building, locking and docking activities.General housekeeping duties; including painting, brushing, and lubricating.Loading and unloading supplies and materials from dock or other vesselsGeneral upkeep of vessel maintenance, which consists of chipping, sanding, painting, cleaning, changing oil and filters.Splice and repair wire cables and ropesPerform visual inspections for leaks, damage, and loose rigging.Understand and implement all company safety rules, procedures and policies as stated in the Employee Handbook, Memorandum Binder, and the RCP manual.Notify supervisor of any potential barge problems.Ensure that all walking or work areas on barges are free of cargo spillage or any kind of debris.Inspect all rigging, ratchets and deck winches to ensure that they are all in good working order.Ensure that all rigging is laid to AEP standards.Perform all other duties as requiredWhat We're Looking For:Educational Requirements:High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent combination of education and/or experience, along with holding a current valid driver's license.Experience Requirements:Must have the physical capability and motivation to perform any and all duties required. Must be able to perform the essential functions of this position as well as the ability to work safely and effectively as a supervisor and team member. Must be polite, respectful and fair in all contacts. Must have the ability to concentrate fully on each assigned task in order to perform all duties in a safe and efficient manner.Other preferences:On-call availability 24/7 Travel required Position Competencies: This is a culture of high involvement and agility, where employees collaborate to foster mutual care for one another and demonstrate a shared commitment to common goals. Successful candidates for this position are strong team players with a dedication to quality and safety in the workplace. They are resilient and persistently drive for results in an ever-changing environment. Candidates have a high energy level and continually work for learning and improvement opportunities.In addition to a 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 DoAt 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:U029-680Compensation Range:$151.43 - $151.43The Physical Demand Level for this job is: H – Heavy Work: Exerting 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 25 to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10-20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Medium 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.