Deckhand - Research Vessel Safety & Operations

Grand Valley State University; Allendale Charter Township (MI); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

Grand Valley State University invites applications for a Deckhand on the W.G. Jackson. This part-time hourly position supports safety, vessel operations, and educational programs aboard the research vessel in Muskegon, MI.

The role requires strong emergency response abilities, marine safety discipline, and the ability to interact with educational groups while upholding university standards and operational procedures.

Qualifications

• Ability to swim and comfort working on and around openwater
• Ability to stand for extended periods, climb ladders, and work on a moving deck in wet, cold, or hot conditions
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions from the Captain quickly and accurately, especially during drills and emergencies
• Willingness to take charge of emergency evolutions (manoverboard, fire, flooding) after training and stay calm under pressure
• Strong attention to detail for inspections, equipment checks, and securing gear before departure
• Ability to work as part of a small crew and communicate clearly with the Captain, instructors, and fellow crew
• Comfort interacting with the public, including K-12 students, teachers, and community groups, and answering basic questions about safety and equipment
• Willingness to perform cleaning, painting, and routine maintenance tasks
• Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn the operation of scientific sampling equipment
• Ability to represent GVSU and AWRI professionally in appearance, language, and conduct

Responsibilities

• Represent Grand Valley State University and the Annis WaterResources Institute in a professional matter
• Maintain proper vessel security I.A.W. Ref (a)
• Carry out duties of the Deckhand as outlined in the PMS programI.A.W. Ref (b)
• Report vessel deficiencies to the on duty Captain and correct same as required
• Take the lead in all emergency evolutions including, man overboard, fire fighting, taking on water etc.
• Maintain the sanitation, overall condition, appearance, and safety of the vessel
• Master the proper operation of all weight handling equipment
• Monitor the safe and proper operation of all vessel weight handling and scientific equipment
• Complete routine inspections and maintenance as directed by the Fleet Captain
• Become familiar with the vessel's radio, navigation equipment, and controls in order to call for assistance and safely return the vessel to port in case of an emergency
• Master the required safety drills
• Work at the direction of the Captain to ensure the safe operation of the vessel
• Handle lines as required
• Monitor aft deck safety
• Learn the proper operation and maintenance of scientific equipment used on the aft deck, including bathythermographs, water samplers, dredges, corers, plankton nets, trawl nets, and CTD's
• Be knowledgeable about and respond to questions from passengers regarding safety, educational programs, and equipment
• Maintain aft deck discipline when no science instructor is present
• Ensure all ship's equipment is secured properly and ready for sea
• Learn, follow, and promote proper safety procedures I.A.W. Ref(c)
• Assist science instructors and researchers as required, in coordination with the on duty Captain
• Act as a host and guide for occasional dockside tours and demonstrations
• Other duties as assigned by the Vessel Captain and Fleet Captain

Job description

Grand Valley State University invites applications for a Deckhand on the W.G. Jackson. This part-time hourly position supports safety, vessel operations, and educational programs aboard the research vessel in Muskegon, MI.

The role requires strong emergency response abilities, marine safety discipline, and the ability to interact with educational groups while upholding university standards and operational procedures.