Mariner Development Specialist

Location: New Orleans

Canal Barge Company

Job Description Mariner Development Specialist

I. BASIC FUNCTION The Mariner Development Specialist is responsible for executing and continuously improving the onboarding and development experience for new hire mariners. This role ensures effective delivery of Deckhand Orientation, supports consistent and objective shoreside assessment standards within the Mariner Progression System, and contributes to strategic initiatives within the Mariner Development Team. The position plays a critical role in early mariner success, retention, and long-term development across the fleet.

This position is based in the greater New Orleans, LA area and requires residence within reasonable commuting distance of the assigned work location. Travel will be a necessary function within this role.

II.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES A. Deckhand Orientation Facilitation & Coordination Coordinate Deckhand Orientation logistics with Crewing, Human Resources, and the Mariner Development Team.

Lead planning and preparation activities in advance of each orientation session.

Execute Deckhand Orientation to ensure consistency, quality, and alignment with company standards.

Maintain and uphold the Deckhand Orientation schedule and training objectives.

Ensure a professional, engaging, and effective onboarding experience for all new hire mariners.

B. New Hire Deckhand Acclimation Support Partner with Human Resources and the Employee Engagement functions to support the successful transition of new hire deckhands into the marine industry and vessel work environment.

Provide training-related observations and feedback regarding new hire readiness, adjustment, and development needs.

Help identify onboarding or training improvements that may better prepare new hires for the lifestyle, expectations, and responsibilities of working aboard a vessel.

Coordinate with Human Resources when additional support or follow-up may be needed.

C. Shoreside Mariner Assessments (Promotion System)
Execute shoreside assessments for mariners eligible for promotion.

Conduct practical evaluations including line handling, wire handling, and deck operations at any New Orleans facility.

Administer and manage promotion testing for applicable mariner ranks.

Ensure consistency, fairness, and integrity in all assessment standards.

Deliver Development Action Plans (DAPs) for unsuccessful assessments, providing clear guidance for improvement.

Submit successful assessments for approval and coordinate with Crewing and Payroll for promotion processing.

D. Vessel Visits & Onboard Support Conduct routine vessel visits when not engaged in orientation or assessments.

Support and complement the Safety Coach Program through onboard coaching and assessments.

Assist with deployment and training of safety initiatives, including tethering systems and other safety equipment.

Reinforce company safety culture and best practices across the fleet.

E. Special Projects – Mariner Development Support and lead special projects aligned with Mariner Development and Training initiatives.

Contribute to continuous improvement efforts related to onboarding, training systems, and mariner progression.

Assist in developing training materials, processes, and tools that enhance learning outcomes.

F. Training Manager Support Serve as the primary operational backfill for the Training Manager during periods of leave, travel, or other absences.

Ensure continuity of daily Safety Coach Program operations, including Safety Coach coordination, routine problem resolution, and promotion process support, including:

Serve as the primary point of contact for Vessel Management Teams (VMTs), Port Captains, and other operational stakeholders regarding routine Mariner Development matters during the Training Manager's absence.

Communicate routine updates, resolve day-to-day issues when appropriate, and elevate significant operational or personnel matters to the Director of Mariner Development as needed.

Maintain continuity of daily Mariner Development operations until the Training Manager returns or additional leadership directions are provided.

III. EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS Minimum of 3 years of experience in marine operations,…