Barge Inspector

Overview

This shoreside job primarily involves performing make-ready activities, including barge inspections, special transfer operations, cargo stripping operations, and internal barge inspections. The job does not require service as a crew member for the operation of any specific vessel.

Responsibilities

• Barge inspections
• Special transfer operations
• Cargo stripping operations
• Internal barge inspections
• Barge pressure readings
• Inspect drip pans
• Inspect void tanks
• Inspect tool tightness of all fittings, bolts, and dogs on cargo and void tanks
• Barge endorsements and certificates
• Housekeeping inspections, including slip-trip hazards and trash
• Prepare supporting documents including barge inspection forms and stripping logs
• Notify Make Ready Supervisor & Traffic of discrepancies found during barge inspections
• Indicate discrepancies found during barge inspections on appropriate forms
• Security awareness responsibility
• Barge pump engine repairs
• Barge topside repairs
• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Organized, detail-oriented, and multi-tasked oriented.

• Ability to operate standard office equipment.

• Self-motivated.

• Ability to safely perform task wearing required Personal Protective Equipment, including steal toe shoes, hard hat, goggles, ear protection, gloves, and full-face respirator,

• Active Driver’s License.

• Current Transportation Worker Identification Credential Card.

Competencies:

• Safety Procedures and Practices: Understanding and implementing safety protocols, including emergency procedures, hazardous material handling, and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
• Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills: Identifying and resolving issues related to barge safety, equipment, and cargo operations, requiring critical thinking and analytical abilities.
• Record Keeping and Reporting: Maintaining detailed inspection records, documenting findings, and preparing reports for regulatory compliance.
• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with inspection tools, equipment, and software used for conducting inspections and recording data.
• Adaptability and Flexibility: The ability to work in diverse environments, handle unexpected situations, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Working effectively with other inspectors, vessel personnel, and stakeholders to ensure smooth and safe operations.

Education:

• High school diploma or GED.

Experience:

• One year of experience in the marine industry or with similar job functions.

Special Requirements:

• Ability to work nights, weekends, holidays.

Physical Activities & Requirements:

• Work Classification: Medium work—lifting no more than 50 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds.

• Pushing/Pulling: Requires occasional pushing/pulling of equipment or tools (e.g., moving hoses, adjusting fittings) up to 50 pounds, typically 1-2 hours per shift.

• Standing: 6-8 hours per day during inspections and repairs on barges.

• Walking: 2-3 hours per day, navigating barge decks and dock areas.

• Sitting: 1-2 hours per day, primarily during documentation or breaks.

• Frequent climbing of ladders or stairs to access barge decks (up to 10 times per shift).

• Occasional crawling or movement through enclosed spaces (e.g., void tanks, cargo compartments) during internal inspections, typically 1-2 hours per shift.

• Other Physical Demands: Must be capable of occasional heavy lifting or carrying of 50 pounds (e.g., tools, equipment).

Working Conditions:

• Office Environment: Minimal office work; primarily uses a shared office space at the Channelview facility for documentation (e.g., barge inspection forms, stripping logs), equipped with standard office equipment (computer, printer).

Physical Environment:

• Primarily outdoors on barges and docks, exposed to weather conditions including temperature extremes (e.g., summer heat up to 100°F, winter lows around 30°F in Channelview).

• Works 10 to 12-hour rotating shifts with occasional weekend and on-call responsibilities.

• Exposure to marine environments, including potential for wet/slippery surfaces, noise from barge operations, and occasional chemical exposure (mitigated by PPE).