Deckhand

A.I.S., Inc. (AIS) is a national scientific services firm supporting maritime activities requiring certification of compliance with environmental regulations as well as collecting data for use by Federal, State, Municipal, and other government agencies along the US coastline.

AIS is looking for a Deckhand to support the operations of the Northeast Fisheries Science Center’s R/V Gloria Michelle. 

Primary Function:

Provide operational and technical support a 72-foot NOAA research trawler homeported in Woods Hole, MA. This position supports the vessel’s annual survey missions, including two 21-day groundfish bottom trawl surveys and a four-week Gulf of Maine shrimp survey—as well as a variety of special projects conducted between April and October. Duties include supporting coastal oceanographic, hydrographic, and benthic surveys; deploying and retrieving scientific equipment; maintaining and repairing vessel systems and gear; and assisting with vessel logistics and safety. The vessel’s missions span from Sandy Hook, NJ to the Hague Line, extending up to 300 nautical miles offshore.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Assist in the deployment and retrieval of scientific sampling gear, including nets, trawls, dredges, CTDs, grabs, and other marine instruments.
• Support day-to-day vessel operations including meal preparation, galley support, and interior cleaning of decks, restrooms, and other common areas.
• Assist in loading and unloading supplies, scientific gear, and vessel stores.
• Participate in docking and line-handling operations.
• Stand lookout and anchor watches during vessel operations as directed by the Officer in Charge (OIC).
• Provide assistance to the OIC, Junior Officer in Charge (JOIC), and lead deck crew in performing vessel maintenance and repairs.
• Contribute to safe and efficient deck operations while underway, including the repair of trawl gear and hydraulic systems as needed.
• Work cooperatively as part of a small crew in tight quarters and extended shifts at sea.

Compensation: Candidates will be paid an hourly rate to be negotiated and total compensation will vary depending on candidates’ depth of experience. This is a full–time position. AIS benefits package includes health and dental insurance, vacation, sick and holiday benefits.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ability to maintain a calm and positive demeanor under physically demanding and sometimes frustrating conditions aboard a small research vessel.
• Willingness to follow lawful orders during emergency situations, including fire, flooding, collision, and abandon ship scenarios.
• Physically capable of performing duties involving prolonged standing, heavy lifting, and safe movement on a moving vessel in rough seas.
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screening and background check.
• Current CPR, First Aid, and AED certification (required and must remain current).
• Must be capable of sustained physical effort, including lifting gear, operating deck equipment, and working on a moving vessel.
• Requires strength, coordination, and balance to manage equipment while anticipating the pitch and roll of the vessel.
• Must tolerate motion and seasickness during rough weather conditions.
• Frequently required to lift and carry objects weighing up to 60 pounds.
• Workdays are typically 12 hours long and may extend up to 20 hours depending on operational needs.
• Exposure to a range of weather conditions is expected; safety protocols are in place to reduce risk.
• Must be comfortable working on slippery or elevated surfaces and able to climb ladders and go aloft (up to 40 feet) when necessary.

Required Certifications and Credentials:

• Must meet NOAA Small Boat Policy training/experience standards (NAO 217-103).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Trawling experience with hydraulic winches, cranes, and windlasses
• Experience with rigging trawl gear and net repair.
• Possession of a valid U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

Travel: 

• Reimbursed at an hourly rate along with compensation for miles accrued on a personal vehicle as well as per diem at the specified Government rate.

Location:

• 166 Water St, Woods Hole, Ma, 02543