The Deck Hand plays a key role in delivering exceptional onboard guest experiences while supporting the safe and efficient operation of the vessel. This position is guest-facing and service-oriented, responsible for creating a welcoming, engaging, and safety-focused environment for passengers on snorkel, sunset, and specialty charters. In addition to providing attentive guest service, the Deckhand assists with vessel operations including line handling, deck readiness, navigation support, and adherence to safety and regulatory standards.
Compensation:
$21.00-$27.00/hour (non-exempt).
Reporting Relationship:
Reports to: Captain and Dive Manager Supervises: N/A
Quality Standards:
- Conduct individual and business affairs in highest ethical and legal fashion.
- Establish and contribute to a supportive, creative, enthusiastic, and cooperative working environment for all.
- Build strong communication links with supervisors, peers, and employees.
- Continuously strive for excellence in the workplace, the Company environment, and as a Company representative.
- Comply with all Company policies and standards.
- Conducts business in alignment with the Mission, Vision, and Values of Pūlama Lāna‘i.
Essential Duties
- Deliver attentive, friendly, and professional service to all guests, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience throughout snorkel tours, sunset cruises, and other specialty charters.
- Greeting and assist guests during boarding and disembarkation, providing clear guidance and support.
- Provide safety briefings and actively monitor guest well-being during all activities, including in-water supervision when required.
- Engage with guests in a positive and approachable manner, answering questions and enhancing their overall experience.
- Assist with mooring, unmooring, and line handling to support safe and efficient vessel operations.
- Support navigation and vessel operations as directed by the Captain.
- Maintain clean, organized, and guest-ready deck and common areas at all times.
- Assist with routine inspections, and general upkeep of deck equipment and vessel systems.
- Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and operational regulations.
- Participate in safety drills, briefings, and emergency response procedures.
- Work collaboratively with the Captain and crew to ensure smooth daily operations and a high standard of guest service.
- Assist with periodic maintenance projects, including dry dock support as needed.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support vessel operations and enhance the guest experience.
Qualification/Requirements:
- High School diploma or equivalent, required.
- Previous experience in the marine environment or customer service, preferred.
- Must be a strong swimmer and proficient in the ocean.
- Ability to work in a physical environment.
- Basic knowledge of maritime safety protocols.
- Requires relating to people in a friendly and professional manner.
- Requires excellent verbal communication skills.
- Requires working to the established procedures and maintaining reliable work attendance.
- Requires the ability to follow oral and written instructions.
- Able to think and make effective decisions quickly.
- Ability to create effective working relationships with employees.
- Must be able to maintain a positive attitude and work under pressure.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
Required Work Cards/Certifications:
- CPR Certification (or must be able to obtain)
- Lifeguard Certification (or must be able to obtain)
- Liquor Card (or must be able to obtain)
- Food handlers Card (or must be able to obtain)
- Current TB Clearance required
Physical Requirements:
- The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 60 pounds.
- Pulling lines and assisting with sails, mooring, or securing the vessel.
- Ability to endure long hours on your feet, especially during tours or when working in challenging weather conditions.
- The ability to handle ropes, knots, and sailing gear effectively.
- Ability to move quickly and safely around the boat, especially in changing conditions, such as rough seas.
- Maintaining balance while working on the deck, which may be uneven or slippery, especially when wet or windy.
- Ability to work under various weather conditions, including heat, rain, and strong winds.
- Exposure to sun and saltwater, which requires resilience and preparation for potential fatigue or dehydration.
- Be physically prepared to respond quickly to emergencies, such as man-overboard situations, medical incidents, or evacuation procedures.
- The ability to swim in case of an emergency, often a required skill for deckhands working on water-based vessels.
- Frequent bending, kneeling, and crouching to secure lines, assist guests, or perform maintenance tasks on the boat.
- Good overall physical health to handle the physical demands of the job, especially when lifting, climbing ladders, or performing manual repairs.
The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by an employee in this classification. It is not to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory, of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications of employees assigned to this job. Management has the right to add to, revise, or delete information in this description. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.