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Temporary Deckhand - RV Tommy Munro

The University of Southern Mississippi
Ocean Springs, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 3 Aug 2026

About the role

Temporary Deckhand - RV Tommy Munro

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Temporary Deckhand - RV Tommy Munro.


Position Details Location Gulf Coast Research Laboratory

703 East Beach Drive
Ocean Springs, Mississippi, 39564
United States
Division GCRL Boat Operations Position Type Staff Employment Status Full Time Grant Funded No Salary Range 12.00 - 14.00 Pay Grade

Posting Close Date Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants
This is a seasonal position expected to last no more than 90 days. We encourage college students or anyone looking for a temporary position to apply. Preference will be give to local applicants with flexible availability.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary
Under the supervision of the Vessel Captain, this position will perform deckhand duties on onboard the R/V Tommy Munro, a 98-foot offshore oceanographic research vessel homeported in Biloxi, MS. Temporary deckhands are responsible for general maintenance, upkeep, and cleanliness of the vessel while at sea and in port. This is a temporary, non-benefitted position.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities  

  1. Performs day-to-day maintenance on R/V Tommy Munro to include but not limited to: loading, storing, and maintaining all equipment; performs cleaning and sanitation of all common areas; performs line handling duties; painting/chipping; and yard work. These duties will be performed in all types of weather, night and day, and while the vessel is underway and in port.
  2. Assists the Captain with wheel watches. Must be able to communicate with Captain and passengers via VHF radio, orally, or sound/hand signals.
  3. Operates winches, A-frames, and deck cranes; performs engine room checks and rigging.
  4. Assists scientific crews with safe and efficient gear deployments and retrievals to include nets, CTDs, and other necessary equipment.
  5. Assists passengers as needed and helps oversee general safety of those on board vessel.
  6. Serves as a deckhand on other university vessels as needed. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent. Must be at least 18 years old.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Ability to complete and pass an internal training program required for approval to operate the vessel’s deck equipment. Position is subject to hands-on training necessary to gain skills using hydraulic systems, cranes, and winches.
  • Ability to work away from home for up to 30 days at a time, offshore, over-night, weekends, and some holidays.
  • Ability to work on a daily basis at vessel’s homeport, while not on a charter.
  • Ability to return to vessels on scheduled time off in the event of emergency or to help facilitate the university’s hurricane evacuation plan.
  • Ability and willingness to cross-train and work on other university vessels as needed.
  • Basic computer knowledge and ability to operate Microsoft Office.  
Preferred Qualifications
1-3 months of related experience
First Aid, CPR/AED Certification
Mississippi Boater Education Certification

About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

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The University of Southern Mississippi

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