Description
@Orchard LLC
has been awarded the PEMAD sea-going support contract through NOAA Fisheries. We are actively hiring
Deckhands (Levels I & II)
to support NOAA Fisheries’ research operations aboard the R/V Gloria Michelle and other survey vessels. Deckhands are essential to the safe and effective deployment of scientific gear, vessel operations, and maintenance. This is a hands-on role requiring seamanship, technical skills, and the ability to work in a small crew environment on extended research trips.
Responsibilities
- Safely deploy and retrieve scientific sampling gear (trawls, dredges, grabs, CTDs, sensors, etc.).Conduct routine vessel operations, including docking, line handling, watches, and housekeeping.
- Assist with cruise staging/de-staging, loading/unloading of stores, supplies, and scientific equipment.
- Support deck operations during research missions, ensuring safety protocols are followed.
- Perform net mending, gear repair, and hydraulic/electrical maintenance as needed.
- Assist with vessel system maintenance (diesel engines, generators, hydraulics, deck machinery).
- Operate deck equipment (winches, cranes, derricks, reels, anchor windlass) under the officer's direction.
- Stand lookout, wheelhouse, and anchor watches using navigation equipment (charts, GPS, radar, fathometers).
- Support trawl repair and equipment troubleshooting while underway.
- Work in close quarters with diverse crews, maintaining professionalism in challenging conditions.
- Report safety issues and operational concerns to NOAA Officers in Charge (OIC/JOIC).
Requirements
General Requirements (all levels):
- Ability to work at sea for extended periods in varied weather.
- Physically capable of lifting and carrying 55lbs, climbing ladders, and working on rolling decks.
- Willingness to work long days (12 hours standard, occasional extended shifts).
- Positive and professional demeanor in small crew environments.
- Current CPR/First Aid/AED certification (or ability to obtain before starting).
- Valid driver’s license and ability to operate government vehicles.
- Applicants must pass a drug test, background check, and NOAA medical clearance (including TB test).
Level I (Assistant Deckhand / Junior)
- Entry-level trawling or oceanographic gear-handling experience desired but not required.
- Exposure to hydraulic winches, cranes, or trawl operations is a plus.
- Able to follow instructions and support the senior deck crew with gear operations and maintenance.
Level II (Experienced Deckhand / Lead)
- Minimum 3 years of trawling/oceanographic experience (hydraulic winches, cranes, trawls, net mending, gear repair).
- Strong preference for candidates with an Able Seafarer (AB) Fishing credential (experience requirement may be halved).
- Demonstrated ability to operate and repair vessel systems (diesel, hydraulics, deck machinery).
- Proven experience managing deck operations safely and efficiently while underway.
- Familiarity with NOAA Small Boat Policy requirements is strongly preferred.
