Jobs › Heidelberg Materials

008825-Deckhand Experienced

Heidelberg Materials · Romeoville, IL · Full time

Posted Jun 2, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

You'd live aboard the vessel for up to 30 days in a row. What experience do you have with that kind of schedule?

What they are checking: Whether they understand the reality of long hitches away from home, which drives turnover in towing.

How do you deal with tension when you're living in close quarters with the same crew for weeks?

What they are checking: Whether they can get along and solve conflicts calmly in a small crew.

What would you do

You notice a frayed wire or a damaged ratchet during inspection. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they report and tag out bad gear instead of using it to save time.

A crewmate is cutting corners on safety while making up tow. How do you handle it?

What they are checking: Whether they speak up on safety even with peers they live and work beside.

What would you do if someone fell overboard during your watch?

What they are checking: Whether they know to sound the alarm, keep eyes on the person, and follow man-overboard steps.

About the work

Walk me through how you handle lines when making up tow or docking a barge.

What they are checking: Whether they know safe line handling, since snapped or crushed lines cause serious injuries.

What do you watch for when you're walking on barges, especially at night or in bad weather?

What they are checking: Whether they stay aware of trip and fall overboard risks, the biggest dangers on deck.

Tell me about your experience in the barge towing industry. What type of rigging have you worked with?

What they are checking: Whether they can step onto the boat with real deck skills or will need full training.

The job requires going into small dark spaces like hatches. How do you stay safe doing that?

What they are checking: Whether they understand confined space risks like bad air and know to follow procedures.

What do you know about the drug and alcohol testing that comes with a Coast Guard regulated job?

What they are checking: Whether they understand random testing is part of the job and are ready for it.

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The full job description

As published by Heidelberg Materials.

Line of Business: Other AGG Job Description About Us Heidelberg Materials is one of the world's largest suppliers of building materials. Heidelberg Materials North America operates over 450 locations across the U.S. and Canada with approximately 9,000 employees. What You'll Be Doing • Assist with operation and maintenance of vessel equipment. • Handle towing lines and rigging during docking and undocking. • Perform routine inspections and maintenance tasks. • Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations. • Collaborate with crew members to ensure smooth vessel operations. What Are We Looking For • Must be willing to work on the waterway for up to 30 consecutive days, living aboard the vessel. • Must be able to enter small dark areas such as hatches and be able to climb horizontal and vertical ladders into and onto barges and must be able to lift in excess of 75lbs. • Complies with all federal, state and local guidelines. • Previous experience in the barge towing industry preferred but not required. • Commitment to maintaining a safe and efficient work environment. Conditions of Employment • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer pre-employment physical examination, drug/alcohol screen, and background check. • Company and USCG regulated ongoing drug and alcohol testing. Work Environment • Role operates primarily in environments where the conditions include moving mechanical equipment, inclement weather, heat, cold, humidity, and elevated noise level. What We Offer • $21.42 per hour. • Benefits include Medical, Dental and vision. • Union Pension. Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority / Female / Veteran / Disabled

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