Seasonal Deckhand

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This position is located at a National Park Service Unit. The primary purpose is to serve as a deckhand aboard the park's 49‑passenger vessel, the Voyageur, a USGS‑approved tour boat vessel. The deckhand works under the supervision of the boat captain and assists with boat operations, docking procedures, and safety needs.

As a uniformed employee, the deckhand:

• Assists the captain with boat operations, docking, and safety inspections.
• Arrives 30 minutes prior to a scheduled trip to aid in moving the vessel to the loading dock.
• Maintains the vessel on time departures and performs spot‑cleaning and tidying before passenger boarding.
• Performs other duties such as food service or interpretive programs when able to maintain primary responsibilities.
• In emergencies or major incidents, assists the captain in correcting the situation.
• Is fully trained in line handling, securing the boat, docking/undocking procedures, passenger loading/unloading, crowd control, maneuvering assistance, standing watch, radio communications, and proper stowage of gear.

This is an open continuous announcement with multiple cut‑off dates. Applications received by the initial cut‑off date will be considered first. The initial cut‑off is Monday, 29 December 2025.

Voyageurs National Park is located in northern Minnesota. The park encompasses over 218,000 acres of boreal forest and water along the Canadian border and includes lakes such as Rainy, Kabetogama, Namakan and Sand Point. The area is adjacent to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and Quetico Provincial Park. The Park is a Class I air‑shed and a designated International Dark Sky Park.

• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication.
• Meet Selective Service Registration Act requirement for males.
• Direct deposit participation in the Direct Deposit Electronic Funds Transfer Program.
• Drug testing prior to appointment and random testing thereafter.
• Obtain a Motorboat Operator Certification Course (MOCC) or equivalent after the duty start date.
• Wear a uniform in compliance with NPS uniform standards; a uniform allowance will be provided.

• Ability to perform the work of the position without more than normal supervision.
• Ability to drive safely (motor vehicles).
• Ability to interpret instructions and specifications related to mobile equipment operation.
• Ability to operate safely (non‑motor vehicle).
• Reliability and dependability as a deckhand.
• Work practices: keeping things neat, clean, and in order.

Volunteer work through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, Ameri Corps) and other organizations earns credit for qualifying experience.

Current surplus and current or former displaced Federal individuals who have special priority selection rights under the Agency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) must meet all OPM qualification standards and all selective placement factors.

The work involves standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, climbing ramps and cramped ladders, often wet. The incumbent must push, pull, reach, walk, stand, crawl, and lift up to 50 pounds frequently, with some loads over 100 pounds. Work is often performed while standing for long periods and in constant motion from vessel movement.

The position works on vessel decks and is exposed to sun, wind, spray, and rain. In winter operations, the park maintains snowmobile trails and ice roads. The worker is exposed to hot, cramped engine rooms, noise, vibration, and potential chemical hazards. Falls on deck and possibility of falling overboard exist; a life jacket is required at all times while underway.

As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits designed to make your federal career rewarding. Eligibility depends on position type and employment status. For more information, contact the hiring agency.

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