Lead Deck Hand & Vessel Operator

Orchard LLC; Falmouth (MA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Orchard LLC seeks an experienced Lead Deckhand / Vessel Operator to support a 72' NOAA research vessel operating from Falmouth, MA, Pocasset, MA, and Narragansett, RI. You will lead deck operations, maintain gear, and support navigational watches on research cruises.

A USCG Master’s license (100 Gross Tons) and extensive trawling experience are required. This is a hands-on, at-sea role with safety at the forefront and opportunities to contribute to NOAA missions.

Qualifications

• Minimum three (3) years of hands-on trawling experience (Level I).
• Minimum six (6) years of hands-on trawling experience (Level II).
• Valid USCG 100 Gross Ton Master’s License (or higher) required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all deck operations while underway.
• Deploy and retrieve sampling gear (bottom/midwater trawls, dredges, probes, CTDs).
• Maintain and repair trawl gear and associated equipment.
• Operate deck gear: cranes, winches, reels, windlasses.
• Assist with docking, line handling, and rope work.
• Perform wheelhouse watches and navigation support.
• Ensure safety and compliance with NOAA/USCG procedures.

Skills

Deck operations

Trawl gear handling

Watchkeeping

Safety procedures

Leadership on deck

Education

USCG Master’s License 100 GT

Tools

Caterpillar 3406 engine

Hydraulic winches & cranes

Net reels & trawl gear

Job description

Lead Deckhand / Vessel Operator (USCG Master I & II) Falmouth, MA (WHOI); Pocasset, MA; and Narragansett, RI This role involves significant time on board research vessels at sea. Join @Orchard and become the operational backbone of a critical national mission with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC). This role provides essential, hands-on support aboard a NOAA research vessel, enabling scientific surveys that are fundamental to managing and sustaining our nation's living marine resources. Your professional seamanship, technical skills, and leadership on deck ensure the safety and success of every research cruise, making science possible. @Orchard is seeking an experienced and licensed Lead Deckhand / Vessel Operator to support a 72' NOAA research vessel. This is a hands-on role for a seasoned mariner who excels in deck operations, vessel maintenance, and navigational support. You will be responsible for everything from deploying and repairing complex trawl gear to maintaining the ship's engine and standing watch in the wheelhouse. We are hiring for two levels of experience (Level I and Level II) based on qualifications. This position requires a professional with a broad skillset, commitment to safety, and the ability to work effectively as part of a small, dedicated team in a dynamic at-sea environment.

Key Responsibilities

Your duties will encompass all aspects of vessel operations, maintenance, and safety.

Deck Operations & Gear Management

Safely and efficiently manage all deck operations while underway. Lead the deployment and retrieval of sampling gear, including bottom/midwater trawls, dredges, probes, and CTDs. Perform expert maintenance and repair on fishing trawls and other sampling gear, with a strong focus on fishing net repair and mending. Operate all deck equipment, including articulating cranes, net reels, trawl winches, and anchor windlasses. Assist with docking exercises, line handling, and tying various rope knots.

Vessel Systems & Maintenance

Assist with and independently operate, maintain, and repair all vessel systems as needed, including the Caterpillar 3406 main engine, Isuzu diesel generators, propulsion gear, and hydraulic systems. Assist in maintaining the vessel's electrical and plumbing systems as required. Repair trawl gear and hydraulic equipment as necessary while underway.

Navigation & Watchkeeping

Perform wheelhouse and anchor watches as requested by the Officer in Charge (OIC). Utilize all wheelhouse instruments and resources-including charts, chart plotters, GPS, fathometers, and RADAR-to safely navigate the vessel.

Safety & General Shipboard Duties

Abide by and enforce all statutory, safety, and operational standards for ships and seamen. In emergencies (fire, flooding, collision, man overboard), obey the lawful orders of the OIC. Assist in the loading and unloading of the ship's stores, supplies, and scientific gear. Assist with meal preparation and routine housekeeping chores. Effectively communicate and work as a crucial member of the vessel team.

Required Experience & Qualifications

Experience Level (One of the following is required):

Level I

A minimum of three (3) years of hands-on trawling experience. This must include operating hydraulic winches and cranes, deploying and retrieving bottom or midwater trawls, rigging trawl equipment, and net repair/mending.

Level II

A minimum of six (6) years of hands-on trawling experience. This must include operating hydraulic winches and cranes, deploying and retrieving bottom or midwater trawls, rigging trawl equipment, and net repair/mending.

Licenses & Certifications

A valid USCG 100 Gross Ton Master's License (or higher). Must meet all training and experience requirements set by NOAA Small Boat Policy (NAO 217-103) for a Small Research Vessel Operator. A current and valid certification in CPR/First Aid/AED.

Technical Skills & Knowledge

Possess a strong combination of experience and/or training in one or more of the following areas: diesel mechanics, electronics/wiring, plumbing, deck maintenance, carpentry, metalworking, and hydraulics.

Essential Personal & Physical Requirements

Must possess the physical fitness and stamina necessary for performing demanding duties in various weather conditions, often for long hours. Must exhibit a positive, calm, and amiable demeanor suitable for close living quarters and challenging situations. You must successfully pass a pre-employment drug test and a comprehensive background check. Must be accessible to vessel homeports in Falmouth, MA; Pocasset, MA; and Narragansett, RI.

Established in 2010, @Orchard LLC has an exceptional reputation, providing staffing solutions to time-sensitive, talent scarcity issues to deliver better talent management ROI. Our specialty lies in the critical area of program talent acquisition and resource management, not in one narrow skillset, but across many areas of technical and functional delivery. To learn more about our other exciting opportunities, visit our Jobs Page at www.atOrchard.com.