Hello group,
I wanted to pass along to you that
job openings for entry level (deckhands) positions are being offered
by Reinauer Transportation in New York. They are interested in
mature, serious and committed people who wish to join the towing
industry. We aren't worried that you have no experience.
We'll train you. You must be 18 or older with a High School
Diploma or G.E.D. We do prefer you have a good work ethic and
a strong back.
I want to stress, above all else, that this is a
ZERO TOLERANCE WORKPLACE.
That means "No drugs or alcohol at all!"
If you think you can partake in a little
recreational chemistry, don't read any further.
We want sober and serious individuals.
If you wish to see if this career is for you, we
offer a "check-out ride and interview" for those who are seriously
considering making this a fulltime endeavor. It consists of you
arriving at our Staten Island NY facility and signing a release.
You will be advised what to bring and be given room and board on a
working vessel while working under direct supervision to see if you
are suited for the position, expect to spend 4-7days. You'll be
evaluated before you spend a dime on any credentials. This is not a
joyride or tour, you will be asked about your work history and shown
what is expected. In the old days this was called "ham and
eggin'" or just "hammin' " and it was for men looking to learn about
the job and then pursue it on their time. You would be showing us
how you work and learn and we will have a better idea what kind of
candidate you'll be.
That said, if you're interested, you'll need a "Z" card.
The cost of
acquiring that is on you. You'll need to contact the USCG and speak
with an evaluator to put together the package needed to get the
initial credential. This link will take you to the
This link will take you to the USCG site and get you started.
The beginning salary for deckhands is $215.00 per
day. That's about $40,000 annually with overtime. By
July 1, 2006 there will be a 4% raise.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
You'll work equal time- 2 weeks on and 2 weeks off.
We offer a company 401K plan, life insurance, paid training, and
opportunities for advancement within your chosen path, be it engine
or deck. The training necessary to meet those raises in grade are
reimbursed by the company.
You will also be required to join the
union, International
Longshoremen's Association, Marine Division, Local 333, after 30 days.
Again, this will be on you.
The "personnel vacuum" created by the new regulatory environment is
making it difficult to advance in this line of work, but not
impossible. What keeps the possibilities alive is the
determination of those who can see the "light at the end " of the
licensing tunnel. Look at it as an apprenticeship like any
other. It is realistic to expect you'd be earning over $50,000
within 3-4 years on the job if you pursue a tankerman's
position. A dedicated individual would be looking at a tug
mate's positon in 5-7 years at $75,000.00. How many college
graduates are doing the same?
In closing, this lifestyle is not for
everyone. Any of the professionals in this group can tell you that
it takes strong individuals, your spouse included, to put up with
the time away from home. The flip side is you have an enormous
amount of time off. Look at your friends working 9-5 trying to cram
all their recreation into a single weekend and then you'll realize
how nice it is to have two weeks to plan what you want to do.
Hey. It's a real job. One you can really be
proud of.
If you are interested in this offer, you need to get in touch with
Ms. Barbara Cafiero at
1-800-RTC-TUGS, ext 409. That's
1-800-782-8847, ext 409.
Sincerely,
Capt. Bill Brucato
ATB Nicole Reinauer
Reinauer Transportation Co. LLC

This letter has been edited for
clarity. The content is the same as the original.