Classification Specifications

The BOATSWAIN plans and assigns work to subordinate seaman and performs a variety of routine, skilled, and semiskilled duties aboard a marine vessel.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

This is the third level of a three-level series. This class is distinguished from the Able Seaman level in its responsibility for planning, scheduling, and assigning work to subordinate seaman as required to maintain a marine vessel.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Watch and Work Detail Scheduling. Typical tasks: plans the work schedule and assigns duties to subordinate seamen to effectively maintain nonengineering areas of a marine vessel; schedules anchor and mooring details and rigging and deck maintenance work assignments to meet safety standards; checks on completed work for compliance with approved operating procedures.
2. Vessel Maintenance. Typical tasks: Inspects all areas of vessel to determine repair and maintenance needs; cleans, paints, and maintains the vessel's hull, superstructure and deck equipment to ensure preventive maintenance and proper safe operating conditions of the vessel; loads and secures cargo for sea; assists in fire fighting and maintenance of firefighting equipment.
3. Equipment Operation. Typical tasks: operates shipboard deck equipment such as winches, boat davits, anchor windlass, and capstan during research work at sea; operates cranes, winches, and rigging while in port to load, unload, and secure cargo; assists in shipboard operations as required during research work while at sea.
4. Miscellaneous. Typical tasks: stands security watch while in port; instructs new seamen in their duties; instructs research personnel on the safety and operational procedures of the vessel.

RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHERS

Employees in this class have daily contact with research personnel, scientists, and students when the vessel is at sea to assist in the operation of experiments. All other contacts are within the work unit. Assignments are received from shipboard personnel and work is performed on the vessel.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Employees in this class receive general supervision from the First Mate. Finished work or projects are reviewed for completeness and conformance to established rules, regulations, and guidelines.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Positions in this class are found on ships conducting research at sea for extended periods of time. They require the willingness to work within the environment associated with the position's location.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Possess a Merchant Mariner's Document with an endorsement of Able Seaman, Special or higher, issued by the U.S. Coast Guard
• Valid driver?s license
• Current passport, or the ability to obtain
• Current STCW certificate including Basic Safety Training
• Meet Coast Guard drug testing requirements
• Ability to speak, read and write English

Revised May 2004