Zebulon DucoMoore

**Port Captain Job Description – Marine Transportation Company**

**Position Overview:**

The Port Captain oversees the operational management and performance of vessels within a marine transportation company. This leadership role ensures the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of the fleet, coordinating closely with vessel crews, management, and regulatory agencies. The Port Captain also serves as a critical liaison between the shore-side operations and vessel personnel, ensuring operational excellence and adherence to company policies.

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**Key Responsibilities:**

1. **Operational Oversight:**

- Oversee the daily operations of assigned vessels, ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and operational standards.

- Monitor and support vessel schedules, ensuring on-time performance and minimal downtime.

- Coordinate with dispatchers, customers, and terminal operators to optimize loading, unloading, and transport operations.

- Conduct regular vessel visits to assess operational performance, safety, and crew welfare.

2. **Safety and Regulatory Compliance:**

- Enforce compliance with company policies, U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulations, and other relevant maritime laws.

- Conduct safety inspections and audits, addressing any deficiencies promptly.

- Ensure vessels maintain required certifications, permits, and documentation.

- Facilitate safety drills and emergency preparedness training for vessel crews.

3. **Crew Management:**

- Collaborate with the HR and crewing departments to recruit, hire, and retain qualified personnel.

- Oversee crew training, including onboarding new hires, professional development, and adherence to safety protocols.

- Address crew-related issues, including discipline, performance evaluations, and conflict resolution.

- Support the Steersman Program or other career progression initiatives for vessel personnel.

4. **Vessel Maintenance and Repairs:**

- Work with Port Engineers to ensure timely maintenance and repair schedules for vessels.

- Monitor equipment performance and ensure operational readiness.

- Coordinate with maintenance teams and vendors to address mechanical issues and minimize downtime.

5. **Budget and Cost Management:**

- Monitor operational expenses, including fuel, maintenance, and supplies, ensuring adherence to budgetary constraints.

- Approve purchases and expenses related to vessel operations.

- Collaborate with management to develop and manage budgets for fleet operations.

6. **Customer Relations:**

- Act as a liaison between the company and customers, ensuring their needs and expectations are met.

- Address customer concerns promptly and professionally.

- Provide operational updates and feedback to clients as required.

7. **Incident Management and Reporting:**

- Lead the investigation of vessel-related incidents, including accidents, near-misses, and mechanical failures.

- Prepare detailed incident reports and coordinate with management and regulatory agencies as necessary.

- Implement corrective actions to prevent future occurrences.

8. **Operational Improvements:**

- Identify opportunities to enhance vessel efficiency and safety.

- Implement best practices for tow building, vessel handling, and cargo management.

- Participate in strategic planning initiatives to align vessel operations with company goals.

9. **Communication and Coordination:**

- Serve as the primary point of contact between vessel crews and shore-side operations.

- Provide guidance and support to captains and crews on operational matters.

- Ensure clear communication of company policies, expectations, and updates to all stakeholders.

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**Qualifications:**

- USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with appropriate endorsements preferred.

- Extensive experience in vessel operations, including as a Captain or Mate.

- Strong leadership and communication skills.

- Knowledge of regulatory compliance requirements (USCG, OSHA, EPA, etc.).

- Proficiency in operational planning and problem-solving.

- Ability to manage budgets and operational costs effectively.

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**Physical Requirements:**

- Ability to travel frequently to visit vessels and terminals.

- Capable of working in outdoor and maritime environments under various conditions.

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**Working Conditions:**

- Shore-based with frequent vessel visits.

- Availability to respond to vessel emergencies or operational needs 24/7.

This description outlines the Port Captain's responsibilities, emphasizing leadership, safety, and operational efficiency in a marine transportation company.

Job Description: Captain – Inland and Western Rivers

Position Overview:
The Captain is the senior officer in charge of an inland towboat operating on inland waterways and western rivers. The Captain ensures the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of the vessel, including navigation, crew management, cargo handling, and adherence to company and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Qualifications:

• Valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with appropriate endorsements for inland and western river operations.
• Minimum [3-5 years] of experience as a licensed officer or captain on towboats.
• Proven knowledge of inland waterway navigation, including locks and fleeting operations.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Proficiency in using navigational tools and software.
• Commitment to safety and regulatory compliance.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work in confined spaces and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Capable of climbing ladders and performing physically demanding tasks.
• Able to remain alert during long shifts.

Working Conditions:

• Rotational schedule (e.g., 28 days on/14 days off) with extended periods away from home.
• Work environment includes exposure to moving machinery, wet and humid conditions, and high noise levels.

This description provides an overview of the key duties and expectations for a Captain operating on inland and western river systems.

**Job Description: Captain – Inland and Western Rivers**

**Position Overview:**

The Captain is the senior officer in charge of an inland towboat operating on inland waterways and western rivers. The Captain ensures the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of the vessel, including navigation, crew management, cargo handling, and adherence to company and regulatory standards.

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**Key Responsibilities:**

1. **Navigation and Operations:**

- Navigate the vessel safely and efficiently on inland and western river systems, including locks and challenging water conditions.

- Utilize navigational tools, charts, radars, and GPS to ensure accurate route planning and adherence to designated paths.

- Oversee all vessel operations, including towing, docking, undocking, and barge maneuvering.

- Monitor and respond to weather conditions, river stages, and other navigational hazards.

2. **Safety and Compliance:**

- Ensure the safety of the crew, vessel, and cargo through strict adherence to company policies, U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulations, and industry standards.

- Conduct regular drills, including man overboard, fire, and abandon ship scenarios.

- Maintain vessel compliance with regulatory requirements, including VGP (Vessel General Permit), incident reporting, and inspections.

- Ensure proper maintenance and functioning of safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, life jackets, and emergency systems.

3. **Crew Management:**

- Lead and manage the crew, including training, scheduling, and performance evaluations.

- Promote teamwork and effective communication among crew members, fostering a positive work environment.

- Ensure crew members are proficient in their roles, including tow building, line handling, and safety protocols.

4. **Cargo Operations:**

- Oversee the loading, unloading, and securing of cargo (e.g., coal, grain, petroleum) to ensure efficiency and safety.

- Monitor barge conditions and ensure proper maintenance of tow configurations.

5. **Maintenance Oversight:**

- Ensure the vessel and its systems, including engines and winches, are properly maintained and operational.

- Report any mechanical issues or maintenance needs to the Port Engineer or appropriate personnel.

- Conduct pre-voyage and ongoing inspections of the vessel and tow.

6. **Administrative Duties:**

- Maintain accurate logs, including daily operations, fuel usage, maintenance records, and crew changes.

- Prepare and submit required reports, such as incident or near-miss reports, to the company and regulatory authorities.

- Coordinate with dispatch, Port Captains, and other operational leaders to ensure timely and efficient vessel operations.

7. **Customer and Public Relations:**

- Represent the company professionally while interacting with customers, regulatory personnel, and the public.

- Ensure cargo delivery timelines and quality standards are met.

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**Qualifications:**

- Valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with appropriate endorsements for inland and western river operations.

- Minimum [3-5 years] of experience as a licensed officer or captain on towboats.

- Proven knowledge of inland waterway navigation, including locks and fleeting operations.

- Strong leadership and communication skills.

- Proficiency in using navigational tools and software.

- Commitment to safety and regulatory compliance.

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**Physical Requirements:**

- Ability to work in confined spaces and outdoors in varying weather conditions.

- Capable of climbing ladders and performing physically demanding tasks.

- Able to remain alert during long shifts.

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**Working Conditions:**

- Rotational schedule (e.g., 28 days on/14 days off) with extended periods away from home.

- Work environment includes exposure to moving machinery, wet and humid conditions, and high noise levels.

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This description provides an overview of the key duties and expectations for a Captain operating on inland and western river systems.