Inland River Systems - Deckhand
Potential earnings range:
$37,440-$75,483*
Per year after graduation
Enjoy being outdoors and on the open water? Good at working with your hands and with other people? Are you attentive, dependable and persistent?
Then you may be a good fit for Job Corps’ Inland River Systems – Deckhand training program.
On the job, you will ...
- Assist with general upkeep of inland towing vessels
- Demonstrate proper lifting and carrying techniques
- Perform preventive maintenance on generator engine
- Demonstrate proper use of deckhand tools
- Work as part of the deck crew and keep all parts of a ship, other than areas related to the engine and motor, in good working order
Some of the career options you will have ...
Graduates of this program often go on to become deckhands on an inland barge. With experience and time, they can be promoted to lead deckhand or senior deckhand.
The credentials you will earn ...
In the Inland River Systems – Deckhand training program, you will earn industry-recognized credentials, as well as a state-issued licenses:
- Transportation Worker Identification credential (TWIC)
- First Aid certifications
- CPR/AED certifications
- Learner’s permit and driver’s license
Students should also earn a state-issued learner’s permit and driver’s license upon completion of
the program.
What you’ll need to start training ...
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent (can be earned at all Job Corps centers)
- Completion of all introductory and career preparation courses
- Passing scores on all written and performance tests
- Meet academic (math and reading) requirements
- Must at least be 18 years old
- Able to pass a drug test and physical abilities test
- Compliance with state requirements that may involve a criminal background check
* Salary information comes from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics Program and is provided for planning purposes only. Actual salary will depend on student skill level, credentials earned, experience level and location.
Meet your instructors
Mike Wallace
Mike Wallace joined Earle C. Clements Job Corps as a Deckhand instructor in 2019 and has been in the tow boating industry for 28 years. Mike started his career as a green deckhand and worked his way up to senior mate and fleet mate for Evansville Marine Services. He now uses this experience to teach students the proper skills to find a career in the field.