Alaska Marine Highway
AMHS Blanket Application: Oilers, Engineers, and Mates
Alaska Marine Highway, Ketchikan, Alaska, United States, 99901
***NOW OFFERING $5,000 HIRING BONUS***
POSITION SUMMARYAs an Oiler and Jr Engineer with the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS), your primary responsibilities include assisting in the maintenance and repair of mechanical and electrical equipment onboard our vessels, utilizing your substantial knowledge of mechanical equipment and proficiency in power and hand tools to ensure smooth machinery operation. Under the supervision of senior engineers, you'll perform routine maintenance tasks, troubleshoot equipment issues, and assist in maintaining vessel security. Additionally, you'll respond to emergencies as a member of the Emergency Squad, following established protocols to ensure passenger and crew safety, while also interacting with the travelling public, providing assistance, and upholding a positive image of the State of Alaska. You'll stand wheel and lookout watches, operate deck machinery, and participate in loading and unloading cargo.
POSITION DETAILSThe purpose of this position is to assist in the maintenance and repair of mechanical and electrical equipment onboard AMHS vessels. Responsibilities include operating power and hand tools, performing routine maintenance tasks, troubleshooting equipment issues, participating in vessel security measures, and responding to emergencies as a member of the Emergency Squad.
Please note: Working onboard the ships is a physically and mentally demanding career. The nature of the shipboard positions requires oiler personnel who can endure working long hours and being away from shore for extended periods of time. Employees must have the ability to perform required duties with or without reasonable accommodation.
ROUTES AND CHANGE PORTSAMHS operates in two distinctive routes. The Southeast (SE) route serves the communities between Bellingham, WA and Skagway, AK. The majority of AMHS vessels operate on this route. The other, more remote route is the Southwest (SW), which includes the communities between Cordova and the Aleutian Chain. The Change Ports (crew change locations) for each route is listed below:
Southeast (SE): Ketchikan, JuneauSouthwest (SW): Homer, Valdez
Please note: This position requires employees report to designated change ports in Alaska for their work assignments. Employees are responsible for their own travel expenses between their physical residence and their designated change port. Commuting between home in Lower 48 and change ports in Alaska is not a financially viable option for most crew.
SCHEDULE & ASSIGNMENTSAMHS vessels operate in a 24/7 work environment with variable crewing schedule. In general, periodic crew assignments are based on a 2 Weeks-On and 2 Weeks-Off rotation with some exceptions. On vessels operating in Southwest route, your assignment duration will depend on the lengths of the absence of the crew member you relieve. Once onboard, the daily schedule during each assignment may vary from 8 hours to 12 hours depending on the route/vessel. Vessel supervisor set work schedule upon signing on to the vessel that may include split shifts. Crew members may be asked to fill in a higher paying position after the crew change if a vacancy occurs (temporary upgrades). Crew lists are posted periodically by AMHS dispatch office which handles all crew scheduling related matters. Please note: Work assignments are scheduled by the Dispatch desk, based on the fluctuating operational needs and in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreements. Seniority plays a major role on how work is assigned.
WORKING ONBOARDThis is a fast-paced and dynamic work environment with a diverse workforce. Room & board is provided while on assignment - on select vessels. Crew stays in shared quarters and meals are provided at the crew and/or officers' mess. On some vessels the crew returns to home port each night before heading out the next day (Day Boats). Regardless of the various room and board situations, AMHS is a Drug and Alcohol-Free workplace and has a strictly enforced Drug & Alcohol Policy. Please note: All employees stationed onboard the vessels, regardless of their status, including new hires residing onboard through the housing assistance incentive, are subject to all DOT&PF and AMHS policies. There is no tolerance for Drug and Alcohol policy violations.
Pay ScaleAMHS offers a competitive pay based on operating route and residency. See table below for starting pay range for Oilers and Jr Engineer hires:
Route-
OILER
Pay Rate - Non-Resident
Pay Rate - Resident
Southwest (SW)
$25.25
$29.21
Southeast (SE)
$27.46
$32.16
Route-
JR ENGINEER
Pay Rate - Non-Resident
Pay Rate - Resident
Southwest (SW)
$26.78
$31.18
Southeast (SE)
$29.93
$34.75
Please note: Whether the new hire qualifies for the resident rate is determined by department Human Resources through the Cost of Living Differential (COLD) application. This is a post-hire application process that takes place after your official appointment. Passenger Services is not involved with this determination. Employees receiving housing assistance incentive do not qualify for the COLD benefits.
Refer to Career Path section below for information about upgrading to higher paying positions.
HIRING INCENTIVES*Selected candidates may qualify for the following hiring incentives depending on the crewing needs.
Hiring Bonus: $5000 (less payroll deductions)
Housing Assistance: up to 3 months accommodation onboard the hotel ship in Ketchikan
Relocation Assistance: a one way - single use ferry ticket to an approved change port in Alaska
* Hiring incentives are subject to change at any time. Additional conditions apply. Details provided if a Job Offer is made.
BENEFITSNew hires qualify for the State of Alaska benefits usually within 30 days of official hire. The State of Alaska offers one of the best benefit systems in Alaska and includes medical and dental insurance with optional family coverage, retirement benefits, vacation and personal leave which accrues with years of service. A summary of state benefits can be reviewed at R&B website.
CAREER PATHAMHS provides upward mobility and progressive advancement opportunity to higher paying positions. New hires who successfully complete their probationary period can apply for regularly assigned bid positions if they meet the MQ's (Minimum Qualifications). Union seniority plays a major role in how the work is assigned and how the bid positions are awarded. However, while building up seniority, it is not unusual for the new hires to work higher paying positions before being able to bid, through onboard upgrades, especially during the busy summer season. Current salary schedules for unlicensed vessel positions can be viewed on the following web links:
https://doa.alaska.gov/dof/payroll/sal_sched/ibu_sw_07012023.pdf
https://doa.alaska.gov/dof/payroll/sal_sched/ibu_se_07012023.pdf
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS AND MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSAMHS operations are governed by State, Federal and Maritime regulations. Employees are required to possess and maintain several maritime and service industry certifications to work aboard the AMHS vessels. Obtaining these certifications can take some time depending on the issuing agency (approx. 3 months). Below is the list of the certifications required for the Oiler and Jr Engineer position before they can be considered for the job:
Valid U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) issued Merchant Mariner's Credential (MMC) endorsed with the following:
National Endorsements:
Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) Oiler &/or Jr EngineerLifeboatman (Waiver-able based on need)
STCW (International) Endorsements:
Basic (Safety) Training (VI/1)Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC)Ratings Forming Part of an Engine Room Watch (III/4) (Waiver-able based on need)Security Awareness
Valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC)Valid USCG Medical Certificate (See STCW Expire Date - Valid 2 years)Valid Driver's LicenseHigh School diploma or equivalentMust be at least eighteen (18) years of ageMust be willing to submit to a physical and drug testAbility to perform any required duties, with or without reasonable accommodation
EMPLOYEE CONDUCTAll vessel employees (prospective or official), as Merchant Mariners, are subject to a wide spectrum of State, Federal and International maritime safety policies. Additionally, as a State employee, you will be a "public agent" who is trusted by the State of Alaska to conduct their job with the highest level of ethics while serving the public. It is our policy that all employees conduct themselves in a manner that fosters a professional, respectful, and inclusive work environment. Public employees have a responsibility to maintain the public's trust. AMHS is a Drug & Alcohol-Free workplace with a strictly enforced Drug & Alcohol Policy and the violators will be subject to immediate termination. Federal and State regulations prohibit employing an individual with drug and alcohol abuse as a crew member. Employment will be denied or terminated if an individual fails the drug test(s) and your Merchant Mariner Credentials may be revoked by the US Coast Guard.
SERVICE STANDARDSOilers and Jr Engineer positions require a certain grooming and uniform standards. Some of the work is performed in plain view of the traveling public. Employees must dress appropriately to reflect a professional image to the public while representing the Alaska Marine Highway System. Good grooming and the utmost personal hygiene must be always maintained while on duty. Hair must be trimmed and well groomed. Jewelry worn inside the mouth, in lips, nose or eyebrows is not permitted while on duty. Tattoos must not be excessively visible while in uniform. Facial tattoos are not permitted. Candidates with tattoos should carefully review if they would be appropriate for a front-line service position before applying. AMHS reserves the right to withdraw a job offer if prospective hire has offensive and/or inappropriate tattoos that is incompatible with our service standards. AMHS provides some of the uniforms (shirts, fleece etc.)
APPLICATION PROCESSFor the Oilers and Jr Engineer position, we prefer applications submitted through our online applicant tracking system available on our website. However, we will also accept written applications. Upon hiring process, candidates are required to have an email address that is monitored daily and provide a reliable phone number capable of receiving text and voice messages. It is strongly advised that applicants maintain access to a computer or smartphone throughout the entirety of the recruitment process. We will be utilizing the applicant tracking system to keep you updated on any necessary steps or pending requirements on your end. Warning to Overseas Applicants! AMHS does not assist foreign nationals in obtaining employment (visit this link for more information). AMHS will not pursue a candidate if deemed unfeasible.
BACKGROUND CHECKSCandidates interested in applying for this position should be aware that they will be subject to separate background checks by multiple agencies during the recruitment and documentation process. This is a safety sensitive position with the State of Alaska which has direct contact of the public. Successful candidates will serve as a public agent and be required to perform duties in a safe, reliable, and highly ethical manner. Applicants are required to provide true and complete information during the recruitment process. If you intentionally or unintentionally conceal or otherwise provide a false statement of material fact in your application, it will result in permanent loss of eligibility for employment with the State of Alaska. Employer may require additional information (i.e. judgment papers) before rendering a hiring decision.
DOCUMENTATIONLegible copies of the required documents must be received and verified by our recruitment desk before a prospective hire can attend the new hire orientation.
NEW HIRE ORIENTATION (NHO)Successful candidates may attend the New Hire Orientation to complete the hiring process. Once the final hiring paperwork is done and the NHO is completed a new hire will be eligible for dispatch.
POSITION SUMMARYAs an Oiler and Jr Engineer with the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS), your primary responsibilities include assisting in the maintenance and repair of mechanical and electrical equipment onboard our vessels, utilizing your substantial knowledge of mechanical equipment and proficiency in power and hand tools to ensure smooth machinery operation. Under the supervision of senior engineers, you'll perform routine maintenance tasks, troubleshoot equipment issues, and assist in maintaining vessel security. Additionally, you'll respond to emergencies as a member of the Emergency Squad, following established protocols to ensure passenger and crew safety, while also interacting with the travelling public, providing assistance, and upholding a positive image of the State of Alaska. You'll stand wheel and lookout watches, operate deck machinery, and participate in loading and unloading cargo.
POSITION DETAILSThe purpose of this position is to assist in the maintenance and repair of mechanical and electrical equipment onboard AMHS vessels. Responsibilities include operating power and hand tools, performing routine maintenance tasks, troubleshooting equipment issues, participating in vessel security measures, and responding to emergencies as a member of the Emergency Squad.
Please note: Working onboard the ships is a physically and mentally demanding career. The nature of the shipboard positions requires oiler personnel who can endure working long hours and being away from shore for extended periods of time. Employees must have the ability to perform required duties with or without reasonable accommodation.
ROUTES AND CHANGE PORTSAMHS operates in two distinctive routes. The Southeast (SE) route serves the communities between Bellingham, WA and Skagway, AK. The majority of AMHS vessels operate on this route. The other, more remote route is the Southwest (SW), which includes the communities between Cordova and the Aleutian Chain. The Change Ports (crew change locations) for each route is listed below:
Southeast (SE): Ketchikan, JuneauSouthwest (SW): Homer, Valdez
Please note: This position requires employees report to designated change ports in Alaska for their work assignments. Employees are responsible for their own travel expenses between their physical residence and their designated change port. Commuting between home in Lower 48 and change ports in Alaska is not a financially viable option for most crew.
SCHEDULE & ASSIGNMENTSAMHS vessels operate in a 24/7 work environment with variable crewing schedule. In general, periodic crew assignments are based on a 2 Weeks-On and 2 Weeks-Off rotation with some exceptions. On vessels operating in Southwest route, your assignment duration will depend on the lengths of the absence of the crew member you relieve. Once onboard, the daily schedule during each assignment may vary from 8 hours to 12 hours depending on the route/vessel. Vessel supervisor set work schedule upon signing on to the vessel that may include split shifts. Crew members may be asked to fill in a higher paying position after the crew change if a vacancy occurs (temporary upgrades). Crew lists are posted periodically by AMHS dispatch office which handles all crew scheduling related matters. Please note: Work assignments are scheduled by the Dispatch desk, based on the fluctuating operational needs and in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreements. Seniority plays a major role on how work is assigned.
WORKING ONBOARDThis is a fast-paced and dynamic work environment with a diverse workforce. Room & board is provided while on assignment - on select vessels. Crew stays in shared quarters and meals are provided at the crew and/or officers' mess. On some vessels the crew returns to home port each night before heading out the next day (Day Boats). Regardless of the various room and board situations, AMHS is a Drug and Alcohol-Free workplace and has a strictly enforced Drug & Alcohol Policy. Please note: All employees stationed onboard the vessels, regardless of their status, including new hires residing onboard through the housing assistance incentive, are subject to all DOT&PF and AMHS policies. There is no tolerance for Drug and Alcohol policy violations.
Pay ScaleAMHS offers a competitive pay based on operating route and residency. See table below for starting pay range for Oilers and Jr Engineer hires:
Route-
OILER
Pay Rate - Non-Resident
Pay Rate - Resident
Southwest (SW)
$25.25
$29.21
Southeast (SE)
$27.46
$32.16
Route-
JR ENGINEER
Pay Rate - Non-Resident
Pay Rate - Resident
Southwest (SW)
$26.78
$31.18
Southeast (SE)
$29.93
$34.75
Please note: Whether the new hire qualifies for the resident rate is determined by department Human Resources through the Cost of Living Differential (COLD) application. This is a post-hire application process that takes place after your official appointment. Passenger Services is not involved with this determination. Employees receiving housing assistance incentive do not qualify for the COLD benefits.
Refer to Career Path section below for information about upgrading to higher paying positions.
HIRING INCENTIVES*Selected candidates may qualify for the following hiring incentives depending on the crewing needs.
Hiring Bonus: $5000 (less payroll deductions)
Housing Assistance: up to 3 months accommodation onboard the hotel ship in Ketchikan
Relocation Assistance: a one way - single use ferry ticket to an approved change port in Alaska
* Hiring incentives are subject to change at any time. Additional conditions apply. Details provided if a Job Offer is made.
BENEFITSNew hires qualify for the State of Alaska benefits usually within 30 days of official hire. The State of Alaska offers one of the best benefit systems in Alaska and includes medical and dental insurance with optional family coverage, retirement benefits, vacation and personal leave which accrues with years of service. A summary of state benefits can be reviewed at R&B website.
CAREER PATHAMHS provides upward mobility and progressive advancement opportunity to higher paying positions. New hires who successfully complete their probationary period can apply for regularly assigned bid positions if they meet the MQ's (Minimum Qualifications). Union seniority plays a major role in how the work is assigned and how the bid positions are awarded. However, while building up seniority, it is not unusual for the new hires to work higher paying positions before being able to bid, through onboard upgrades, especially during the busy summer season. Current salary schedules for unlicensed vessel positions can be viewed on the following web links:
https://doa.alaska.gov/dof/payroll/sal_sched/ibu_sw_07012023.pdf
https://doa.alaska.gov/dof/payroll/sal_sched/ibu_se_07012023.pdf
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS AND MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSAMHS operations are governed by State, Federal and Maritime regulations. Employees are required to possess and maintain several maritime and service industry certifications to work aboard the AMHS vessels. Obtaining these certifications can take some time depending on the issuing agency (approx. 3 months). Below is the list of the certifications required for the Oiler and Jr Engineer position before they can be considered for the job:
Valid U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) issued Merchant Mariner's Credential (MMC) endorsed with the following:
National Endorsements:
Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) Oiler &/or Jr EngineerLifeboatman (Waiver-able based on need)
STCW (International) Endorsements:
Basic (Safety) Training (VI/1)Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC)Ratings Forming Part of an Engine Room Watch (III/4) (Waiver-able based on need)Security Awareness
Valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC)Valid USCG Medical Certificate (See STCW Expire Date - Valid 2 years)Valid Driver's LicenseHigh School diploma or equivalentMust be at least eighteen (18) years of ageMust be willing to submit to a physical and drug testAbility to perform any required duties, with or without reasonable accommodation
EMPLOYEE CONDUCTAll vessel employees (prospective or official), as Merchant Mariners, are subject to a wide spectrum of State, Federal and International maritime safety policies. Additionally, as a State employee, you will be a "public agent" who is trusted by the State of Alaska to conduct their job with the highest level of ethics while serving the public. It is our policy that all employees conduct themselves in a manner that fosters a professional, respectful, and inclusive work environment. Public employees have a responsibility to maintain the public's trust. AMHS is a Drug & Alcohol-Free workplace with a strictly enforced Drug & Alcohol Policy and the violators will be subject to immediate termination. Federal and State regulations prohibit employing an individual with drug and alcohol abuse as a crew member. Employment will be denied or terminated if an individual fails the drug test(s) and your Merchant Mariner Credentials may be revoked by the US Coast Guard.
SERVICE STANDARDSOilers and Jr Engineer positions require a certain grooming and uniform standards. Some of the work is performed in plain view of the traveling public. Employees must dress appropriately to reflect a professional image to the public while representing the Alaska Marine Highway System. Good grooming and the utmost personal hygiene must be always maintained while on duty. Hair must be trimmed and well groomed. Jewelry worn inside the mouth, in lips, nose or eyebrows is not permitted while on duty. Tattoos must not be excessively visible while in uniform. Facial tattoos are not permitted. Candidates with tattoos should carefully review if they would be appropriate for a front-line service position before applying. AMHS reserves the right to withdraw a job offer if prospective hire has offensive and/or inappropriate tattoos that is incompatible with our service standards. AMHS provides some of the uniforms (shirts, fleece etc.)
APPLICATION PROCESSFor the Oilers and Jr Engineer position, we prefer applications submitted through our online applicant tracking system available on our website. However, we will also accept written applications. Upon hiring process, candidates are required to have an email address that is monitored daily and provide a reliable phone number capable of receiving text and voice messages. It is strongly advised that applicants maintain access to a computer or smartphone throughout the entirety of the recruitment process. We will be utilizing the applicant tracking system to keep you updated on any necessary steps or pending requirements on your end. Warning to Overseas Applicants! AMHS does not assist foreign nationals in obtaining employment (visit this link for more information). AMHS will not pursue a candidate if deemed unfeasible.
BACKGROUND CHECKSCandidates interested in applying for this position should be aware that they will be subject to separate background checks by multiple agencies during the recruitment and documentation process. This is a safety sensitive position with the State of Alaska which has direct contact of the public. Successful candidates will serve as a public agent and be required to perform duties in a safe, reliable, and highly ethical manner. Applicants are required to provide true and complete information during the recruitment process. If you intentionally or unintentionally conceal or otherwise provide a false statement of material fact in your application, it will result in permanent loss of eligibility for employment with the State of Alaska. Employer may require additional information (i.e. judgment papers) before rendering a hiring decision.
DOCUMENTATIONLegible copies of the required documents must be received and verified by our recruitment desk before a prospective hire can attend the new hire orientation.
NEW HIRE ORIENTATION (NHO)Successful candidates may attend the New Hire Orientation to complete the hiring process. Once the final hiring paperwork is done and the NHO is completed a new hire will be eligible for dispatch.