What does your job as a deckhand aboard the Amundsen involve?
Right now, I’m the acting boatswain, but I fill various roles on the deck of the Amundsen. Usually, I’m a deckhand or an assistant boatswain on the night shift. The boatswain’s role is central to the ship’s operations. Everyone interacts with you, whether it’s for logistics, equipment, or scientific operations. On the Amundsen, we’re primarily responsible for deploying all scientific equipment, in collaboration with the wheelhouse, the scientists, and our crew of deckhands.
How long have you been in this position?
As a seaman, it’s been 17 years. As a boatswain, it’s been four or five years. As an assistant boatswain, it’s been about six or seven years. 17 years. That’s a long time, it’s crazy. I once filled in as a boatswain on another Canadian Coast Guard ship, the CCGS Pierre Radisson.
What does a typical day look like for you when the ship is at sea?
When the ship is in working for science, things are always changing. We get up, have some coffee (that’ll never change)! Then we check the schedule, crack a few jokes with coworkers, and adjust to whatever’s on the schedule. We try to keep up with the rest as we can. Sometimes it’s not easy, but oh well. In terms of operations, there are activities on the foredeck, and there are some on the aft deck, too. There are all kinds of things like that. It’s very varied.
What are the biggest challenges you face in your work?
Planning meal times when there are operations going on. Honestly, it’s a big challenge. It’s a headache every time, it’s complicated. Other than that, things are going well. I don’t have any problems with the equipment, everything’s fine. Otherwise, there are challenges when you’re ashore during the scientific mobilization period. It can be a demanding time.
Is there a particularly busy time of year for you? Why?
It’s definitely all about getting the scientific team ready before the expedition begins. Getting everything ready for science takes a long time. There isn’t much time, the days are long. There are always little problems popping up here and there; it’s a real challenge.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The people. When you have great teams, it’s really fun. It makes all the difference, that’s for sure. Other than that, I really enjoy deploying scientific instruments. In fact, my favourite instrument is the piston core, and the one I like the least is the MVP (moving-vessel profiler). Haha!
What qualities or skills are essential for being a deckhand?
First, you need to be a good team player. It’s important to have a positive attitude toward your coworkers and to enjoy learning. You also need to be able to do with what you have and handle the unexpected. It’s important to be resourceful. Resourcefulness is essential. If you enjoy adventure and hands-on work as part of a team, this might be the right fit for you.
