Captain on Great Lakes Dry Bulk Cargo Vessel

Job Summary:

The Company owns/operates a fleet of US Flag commercial self-unloading free flowing dry bulk cargo vessels on the Great Lakes. The vessel master is in command and has overall authority and responsibility for vessel operations using his/her authority, experience and professional skill to achieve three broad objectives:

Safety of the ship and the crew

Sound environmental practices

Efficient vessel operations

Responsibilities:

Safety of the ship and crew – A daily, visible effort and leadership role in all aspects of vessel operations to promote:

Enforces compliance with the Company’s Safety Policy, procedures, response plans and application laws and regulations

Safe working practices and conditions

Identification and elimination of hazards through the Company’s Near Miss Reporting system

Training and orientation through the Company’s “Stop, Talk, Proceed” program (a.k.a “STP”).

Sound environmental practices –

Compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations

Conduct training and drills to support the Company’s efforts to protect the environment.

Efficient vessel operations –

Navigation - Ensures the safe and efficient navigation and ship handling of the vessel. Stays within own capabilities and makes prudent navigational decisions considering circumstances that may affect the safety of vessel operation including, but not limited to, weather conditions, loaded or light draft, type of cargo, other vessel traffic, dock configuration, crew experience and other relevant navigational considerations. Ensures that effective bridge team communications are maintained at all times.

Cargo operations - Ensures safe and efficient cargo load planning resulting in a “safe for sea” condition for all aspects of the intended voyage, taking into account all available information with regard to under keel clearance. The Master is the final authority on the vessels loaded draft and ballasting operations. Must be aware of the vessel’s operational status at all times including any condition, which does or may affect the vessel’s maneuverability or seaworthiness. Ensures the vessel is offloaded safely.

Leadership, Management & Communications - Maintains an effective working relationship with officers and crew with emphasis on a strong relationship with the chief engineer. Promotes positive employee relations. Effectively communicates with office staff in accordance with Company procedures

Education & Experience Requirements:

USCG Great Lakes Master license

Master of steam or motor vessel of any gross tons upon Great Lakes and Inland Waters

First Class Pilot of any gross tons on Great Lakes between Duluth, Gary and Buffalo.

First Class Pilotage to Cape Vincent/Anticosti Island preferred

USCG Merchant Mariner Credential

US Department of Homeland Security Transportation Worker Identification Credential (“TWIC”)

Vessel security officer certification

Drug & Alcohol sample collection certification

BA/BS degree in nautical science or business preferred

Two-years of experience sailing as a master of a commercial cargo vessel on the Great Lakes

Other Requirements:

Extensive travel throughout the Great Lakes to join and depart vessels for assignments at any time and throughout the shipping season.

Vessel assignments are approximately 60 to 90 days in duration with approximately 200 total days on board Company vessels during a navigation season. The navigation season commences late March and ends mid-January.

Eligible to enter Canada

Pass required physical examinations and screening for dangerous drugs and alcohol as required under US Coast Guard regulations and along with Company mandated physical examinations.

Must have the physical vigor to board Company vessels using steep ladders or work boats provided by vessels or ship repair yards to embark and disembark vessels and access the pilot house and engineering spaces aboard the vessels.

Must be able to don personal protective equipment as required to attend and inspect vessels at docks, ship yards or other repair facilities.

Have the stamina to work extended hours (within US Coast Guard limits) in performing duties.

This position is not eligible for relocation benefits.