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Deckhand

Also known as General Purpose Hand, Crew Member, Ferry Hand, Fisher and Fishing Hand.

Deckhands undertake a wide range of fishery and maritime work on land and at sea, including communications, supply, seamanship, hospitality and stores.

They may also use equipment such as nets, lines and traps to catch fish, crustaceans and molluscs.

A deckhand's duties may vary depending on the function of the vessel. A fishing vessel may require the use of pots, lines and scuba equipment, whereas a recreational or transportation vessel may require hospitality services such as table preparation, bar service and cabin care for patrons.

Deckhands work in all types of weather conditions and spend long hours at sea. Conditions can be cramped and deckhands may be required to work odd hours.

Shifts may include four hours of work followed by four hours of sleep.

TASKS

Deckhands may perform the following tasks:

relay information to crew, other ships and harbour authorities using radio and satellite equipment
provide hospitality services such as table preparation, bar service and cabin care for patrons
attach runners, weights, buoys, anchors, poles, stakes, wood or metal beams to nets, traps or pots
sort, clean, process, preserve and package catches
load, unload and stow supplies and equipment
operate dinghies and dories
operate winches and other deck equipment

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

physically fit (a medical examination may be required)
normal colour vision (to become a skipper, although restricted licences may be available)
an awareness of maritime safety issues
good hand-eye coordination
a good sense of balance
able to cope with the physical demands of the job
able to work as part of a team

Interest Area

SPECIALISATIONS

Skipper - oversees the maintenance, preparation and operation of vessels, including the hiring of crew and logistics preparation for voyages.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

You can work as a deckhand without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications.

You may like to consider a VOC qualification in fishing operations or maritime operations. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information. You may be able to study through distance education.

You can also become a deckhand through a traineeship in Aquaculture, Fishing Operations or Maritime Operations.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Maritime Industry or Seafood Industry Training Packages that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Employment may be available in fisheries cooperatives; state, territory or federal fisheries agencies; fishing gear manufacturers; research vessels; equipment suppliers; and fish processing firms. Many smaller fishing vessels are family owned and operated, and recruitment on such vessels is often from within the family.

Demand for people to work on fishing vessels is seasonal. While the fishing sector provides the most job opportunities for deckhands, employment is also available on recreational, transport and other commercial vessels.