We have used PortlandJobFinder.com for years and it continues to provide the best local candidates. - Linda

Job Details

Apprentice Tankerman

  2026-01-21     Tidewater     Vancouver,WA  
Description:

THE JOB

Tidewater Barge Lines is looking for an Apprentice Tankerman to join their team in Vancouver, WA! This entry-level position will undergo a period of training and supervision to be responsible for the loading and pumping of all liquid cargo barges, in addition to safely transferring other liquid cargos within our product terminals. This role will also:

  • Serve as a shoreside Person-In-Charge (PIC) for tug fueling operations and Tidewater Industrial Complex (TIC).
  • May perform liquid barge maintenance and housekeeping.
  • Maintains constant and appropriate communication via radio with dock, vessel personnel and terminal personnel throughout the course of a product transfer.
  • Manages self and others in support of safe and incident-free operations. Responsible for knowing and abiding by applicable safety management system policies and procedures.
THE PAY & BENEFITS
  • The Apprentice Tankerman position is expected to be, on average, a one-year training position. The wages are based on progression and benchmarks within the training program. Estimated wages and their timelines are:
    • First 90 days: $43.50/ hour
    • Next 180 days: $49.30/ hour
    • Remainder of training program: $55.10/ hour
    • After successful completion of training and required assessment: $58.00/ hour
  • Full-Family Medical/Dental/Vision Coverage
  • Paid Vacations & Sick Time
  • Nine Paid Holidays
  • 401(k) with Company match of 50% on contributions up to 6%
  • 7% of wages to IBU Trust Pension Plan
*This is a union position represented by the Inlandboatman's Union of the Pacific Columbia River Region (IBU).

THE CATCH
  • This position will have a varied schedule:
    • While in the training program: Monday - Friday with potential weekend work
    • As a full Tankerman: Friday - Tuesday (Wednesday & Thursday off)
      • OR Saturday - Wednesday (Thursday & Friday off)
  • Ability to obtain and maintain valid Coast Guard licenses and documents authorizing Person-In-Charge status for the transfer of petroleum and other dangerous liquids, and to meet any additional standards required by any other authorized regulatory agency.
  • Ability to become knowledgeable of all vessels and procedures to transfer such liquids, including knowledge of piping systems, tankage, gauging devices and inspection and safe handling of hoses and loading spouts.
  • Ability to be qualified in emergency response and spill procedures.
  • Must have mechanical aptitude with the ability to perform maintenance and repairs on liquid barge equipment as needed.
  • Communication and interpersonal skills necessary to resolve issues and interact with personnel at all levels of the organization.
  • Ability to wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE) required for maintenance yard location, which may include earplugs, protective eyewear, goggles, life vest, crush-resistant footwear, hard hat, facial respirator, and personal flotation devices.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Transportation Work Identification Credential (TWIC) Card from the Department of Homeland Security.
  • Must have a valid drivers' license and an insurable driving record.
  • Must be available on an on-call basis on nights, weekends and holidays.
  • Ability to travel to upriver facilities if required (approximately 5%).
  • Employment offer subject to passing a pre-employment physical, drug screen, and driving record/criminal background check.


THE COMPANY - Connecting Customers to Local, Regional and Global Markets

Founded in 1932, Tidewater has evolved into a multi-commodity transportation and terminal company serving the diverse and evolving transportation needs of the Pacific Northwest, Canada and beyond. Headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, Tidewater operates the largest barge transportation and terminal network on the Columbia-Snake River system.

JOIN OUR TEAM!
• Submit your application at .

The characteristics described herein are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (A.D.A.) and is not an exhaustive list of the duties that may be required for this position. Additional duties are performed by the individuals currently holding this or similar positions and additional duties may be assigned.

Tidewater is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to status as a protected veteran or a qualified individual with a disability.


Apply for this Job

Please use the APPLY HERE link below to view additional details and application instructions.

Apply Here

Back to Search