Good afternoon folks. From what I understand it’s getting to be hiring time for the upcoming GL season. Does anyone have a line on any gateman or wiper opportunities?
You can send a DM if you want
Shipping was down last year. That being said, they are probably still relief opportunities. Companies to contact are Lower Lakes Towing, Interlake, GLF (Great Lakes Fleet.) Also the SIU Hall in Joliet, IL and Lake Carriers Association usually has a job portal. Cement boats, too. Due to staff reductions, some guys retired early in recent years…
Thank you SamW! I’m not familiar with cement boats but I can probably do the research. I will reach out to the folks you mentioned.
You bet, George. Some cement boats would come under the SIU. Others would be under Inland Lakes Management - but this company may have been under a company that bought them out. Gateman sea time may be declared either deck or engineroom if you are looking to get time in to get a rating.
Sam ILM is a SIU company. In fact one of the only ones where the officer are SIU.
Yes, that be so. They usually run 2 tug/barges and one steamboat. The boat used to carry 2 OS (1 deckhand and 1 wiper/gateman.) I would not be sure what the complement of crew would be on the tug/barges. Both assignments should have your own quarters - I think…
Best bet would be the SS Badger.
Thank you SteamerCook. I will do that!
You can apply via their website. If you can put in a full season in the boiler room, there isn’t a fleet in the Lakes that wouldn’t hire you as you have proven that you can handle anything. The Chief on the Badger started as a coal passer.
SteamerCook,
Thank you. I did apply online and sent a follow up to HR.