Deckhand: Towboat Operations & Safety (12-Hour Shifts)

Illinois Marine Towing; Lemont (IL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Illinois Marine Towing is seeking a Deckhand to join our inland towing and fleeting fleet. You will assist in preparing barges for transport, handle lines, splices, and towing operations, and maintain vessel cleanliness and safety on mass shifts.

This role requires safety focus and physical stamina for long 12‑hour duties. Candidates must have a valid driver’s license and be able to obtain TWIC credentials.

Qualifications

• Demonstrate the ability to employ all safety practices and manage risk.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal skills.
• Be able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Hold a valid Driver's License.
• High school diploma or equivalent strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Performing the various tasks necessary to maintaining, making up and breaking a tow, such as making a coupling, operating winches and ratchets, handling wires, handling and throwing lines and splicing lines
• Dropping, spotting and switching barges at docks
• Standing lookout or “riding the head” of the tow as a lookout
• Maintain cleanliness of the vessel and tow, such as cleaning or “souging” the vessel and cleaning living quarters
• Inspect and maintain equipment
• Preform basic vessel maintenance
• Report any relevant vessel condition information, especially any hazardous or unsafe condition of the boat, tow, and any associated equipment not to the Leadman, Master (or Pilot on Watch) and take action to prevent injuries or accidents
• Adhere to all IMT policies, USCG and environmental regulations

Skills

Safety awareness

Communication skills

TWIC eligibility

Driver's license

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Illinois Marine Towing is seeking a Deckhand to join our inland towing and fleeting fleet. You will assist in preparing barges for transport, handle lines, splices, and towing operations, and maintain vessel cleanliness and safety on mass shifts.

This role requires safety focus and physical stamina for long 12‑hour duties. Candidates must have a valid driver’s license and be able to obtain TWIC credentials.