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Barge Captains

Main description/2nd description
View a list of occupations that are related to Barge Captains.

Occupation Overview

Ship captains and mates direct and navigate all kinds of ships.

In 2003, the movie "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World" was released. The movie is based on a book in the series by writer Patrick O'Brien. In the film, Captain Jack Aubrey (played by Russell Crowe) must lead his crew as they chase a French ship during the Napoleonic wars. Their ship, the Surprise, is badly damaged and many of Aubrey's crew suspect it is past its prime. However, Captain Aubrey replies, "She has a bluff bow, lovely lines. She's a fine seabird: weatherly, stiff, and fast." Even though this is a fictional setting, it's clear that captains are bonded to their ships. After all, for many ship captains and mates, the ship or boat becomes a second home.

Captains or masters are in command of ships. They set the course and speed and steer vessels to avoid hazards and other ships. They use equipment such as depth finders and radar to watch for hazards. They also gather information from lighthouses, buoys, and lights. Captains determine the ship's position using navigational aids, charts, and observations. They direct the crew who steer the ship, operate the engines, and signal to other vessels. Often they tow and maneuver barges, or signal tugboats to tow them to a specific destination. They also direct those who perform maintenance or operate towing or dredging gear. Captains check that proper procedures and safety practices are followed. They make sure that machinery and equipment are in working order. They oversee the loading and unloading of passengers or cargo.

On large ships, captains have deck officers or mates as assistants. Merchant marine ships have a chief or first mate, a second mate, and a third mate. Mates "stand watch." This means they oversee the operation of the vessel for part of the day. They also take over for captains who are sick or on leave. On smaller vessels, there may be only one mate who alternates watches with the captain. On these ships, deck officers' duties may be very similar to those of captains. On larger vessels, mates may split the duties with other workers.

Captains are also responsible for taking care of the business of the ship. They keep logs and records of the ship's movements and cargo. While ships are docked, captains may purchase supplies. If they operate fishing vessels, captains find buyers for the fish they caught. They may talk to agents about how to meet customs regulations. They also interview, hire, and instruct new staff. In addition, they assign new staff to watches and living quarters.

The size of the crew varies by the type of ship and the location. A typical deep-sea merchant ship has a captain, three mates, a chief engineer, three assistant engineers, plus six or more deckhands. Ships that operate in rivers or harbors may only have a captain and one deckhand, or they may have up to ten people on the crew. Large vessels also have a full-time cook. On smaller ships, a seaman does the cooking. Merchant ships also have an electrician, machinery mechanics, and a radio officer.

Ship captains and mates work on every type of waterway. They work on oceans, lakes, harbors, rivers, and canals.

  • Captains are in charge of ships
  • Mates assist captains and stand watch
  • Work on oceans, lakes, harbors, rivers, and canals
  • Often work outdoors
  • Work a variety of hours and shifts, depending on the waterway
  • Usually train through bachelor's degree programs
  • Some work their way up to this position
  • May need a license
  • Earn $61,960 per year (national median)


    
  • Local Interest

    Rehabilitation Services - National Able Network

    Able provides innovative, leading-edge services and programs that empower individuals, families, businesses and communities. We do whatever it takes to help job seekers acquire essential training, skills and support, not just for working, but for living.

    Able job seekers services help give you the competitive edge you need to be successful in your job search. Able provides the following services to help you get back to work and life:

    · Individualized job-placement assistance

    · Links to local businesses

    · Job-readiness workshops:

    o Résumé writing

    o Interviewing skills

    o Proven job-search techniques

    · Career counseling and Planning

    · Individual case management

    · Basic and Vocational Skills Instruction

    · Re- Employment Services for Laid Off Workers

    · Specialized programs Youths, Mature Workers and Disabled Jobseekers

    · Computer training in English and Spanish

    · Full -Service Resource Centers

    · Targeted Hiring Events

    · Targeted Job Fairs

    · Referrals to Community Resources

    180 N. Wabash Avenue
    Suite 600

    Chicago , IL 60601-3600
    Phone: 312.782.3335
    TTY: 312.782.7700
    Fax: 312.580.0348


  • Rehabilitative Services - IDHS

    Illinois Department of Human Services

    What is the purpose of this service?

    We help people with disabilities find and keep jobs. Our goal is to help our customers find quality employment that pays a living wage and offers a chance for advancement.

    What services are offered?

    Our staff talk to people about their employment needs and help them find a job or get ready to go to work. They also make sure that people have the supports they need to stay on the job.

    We offer specialized VR services for people who are:

    We help high school students who have disabilities plan for their futures after high school graduation through our Transition and STEP programs.

    Our Work Incentive Planning and Assistance Program helps people who receive SSDI/SSI benefits understand how working will affect their benefits.

    Our Supported Employment Program (SEP) serves eligible people with significant disabilities who want to go to work and need on-going support services to succeed on the job.

    Who can receive these services?

    Many people with disabilities of working age (16-64 years old) are eligible for VR services. To be eligible, they need to have a significant physical or mental impairment that makes it difficult to go to work.

    How to apply?

    Use the online Rehabilitation Services Web Referral External link opens in a new window to refer yourself or someone else for services.

    Search for Rehabilitation Services to find the nearest local office or call toll-free: (800) 843-6154 (Voice, English or Español) or (800) 447-6404 (TTY).

    DHS Family Community Resource Center in Cook County - Northern

    Family Community Resource Center

    8020 St Louis Ave
    Skokie, IL 60076

    Phone: (847) 745-3200
    TTY: (866) 321-8261
    Fax: (847) 745-3276 

    DHS Family Community Resource Center in Cook County - South Suburban

    Family Community Resource Center

    3301 Wireton Rd
    Blue Island, IL 60406

    Phone: (708) 293-4700
    TTY: (866) 439-3715
    Fax: (708) 293-4770 

    DHS Family Community Resource Center in Cook County - West Suburban

    Family Community Resource Center

    2701 W Lake St
    Melrose Park, IL 60160

    Phone: (708) 338-7600
    TTY: (866) 439-3720
    Fax: (708) 338-7638


  • Services for the Disabled

    Ticket to Work Project

    Purpose: To assist individuals with disabilities in Illinois who receive Social Security benefits by providing information and advice regarding vocational rehabilitation and employment services , as well as advocacy or other services that beneficiaries with disabilities may need to secure, regain, or retain employment.

    The Ticket to Work Project provides advocacy, advice, and training regarding:

    • Social Security Benefits & Work Incentives Information
    • Obtaining Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DRS)
    • Using the Ticket to Work
    • The relationship between a beneficiary and an EN
    • Employment Laws
    • School-to-Work Transition Issues
    • Barriers to Employment

    Contact Information:

    Ticket to Work Project
    20 N. Michigan, Suite 300
    Chicago, IL 60602
    (312) 341-0022 Se Habla Español
    ASL
    (800) 537-2632
    (800) 610-2779 (TTY)
    (312) 341-0295 (Fax)

    contactus@equipforequality.org


  • Basic Computer and Resume Workshops

    The North Lawndale Employment Network (NLEN) is now offering monthly workshops in Basic Computer use and Resume Building.

    Workshops are offered on the 1st Monday of each month from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

    To find out more on how these workshops can assist you in upgrading your skills, call (773) 265-7946 or visit the NLEN External link opens in a new windowweb site for additional information.


  • You just received notice of a new job interview. Do you have the right attire to make an impact?
    If you answered no, then contact Dress for Success!  Dress for Success is a not-for-profit organization that helps economically disadvantaged women acquire jobs, retain their new positions, and succeed in the workplace.  Dress for Success helps their clients enter the workforce, and provides ongoing support to help them stay employed and build a successful career.  To find out how you may benefit from this service, visit your local DressForSuccess External link opens in a new window center.

  • Youth Employment Possibilities

    The North Lawndale Employment Network (NLEN) offers an 11 week job readiness program called Building Beyond.  This program helps youth to enter the workforce and become successful, self-sufficient, and active citizens.  Participants learn life skills, job readiness, and basic computer use, with an emphasis on communication and customer service skills.

    For more information on this program and how to enroll, contact NLEN at (773) 265-7940 or to read more about this exciting opportunity, visit the NLEN Building Beyond External link opens in a new window web site.


  • Statewide Interest

    Serve Illinois
    Serve Illinois The Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service has developed the Serve Illinois website so you can easily find information on AmeriCorps, Senior Corps, and the Learn and Serve Program. You can find a place to serve by selecting an area of interest or by using a ZIP Code search. Click here External link opens in a new windowto learn more about volunteer opportunities, to find resources for volunteers of all ages, and to sign up for training opportunities and service day events in your area. You can also call (800) 592-9896 (voice) or (888) 261-2713 (tty).

  • Spell Check Your Work Online
    SpellChecker.net SpellChecker.net External link opens in a new windowallows you to paste in your work and then run a spell check or type your work directly into the spell checker for potential corrections as you write. This tool is useful for creating resumes, proofing emails or blogs, and any other work which may be presented to a potential employer.

  • Senior Corps
    National Senior Service Corps Senior Corps is a volunteer program for adults over age 55. The program assists seniors in finding volunteer opportunities through the Foster Grandparent Program, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) and the Senior Companion Program. By volunteering with Senior Corps, senior adults across the country are making a difference in their community every day. Click here External link opens in a new window to learn more about service opportunities through Senior Corps.

  • Youth Service Providers

    Workforce Investment Act programs are offered to youth between the ages of 14-21. Youth services providers offer programs to assist young people in reaching individual academic goals (high school diploma recovery or GED) and developing basic job skills as they make the transition from being older youth to young adults. All WIA services for youth are offered at no cost to the participant.

    All Local Workforce Area’s have at least one provider of services to this group of people. The statewide WIA Youth Services Providers List gives the provider’s name, contact info, city in which the provider is located, and a brief listing of the services provided. Click here to see the list of Youth Service Providers External link opens in a new window


  • Could this be YOUR LIFE?
    Could this be Your Life logo

    Ever wonder how those everyday life choices could affect your career, family life, and choosing a place to live?

    If so, then check out this online interactive game brought to you by the Illinois Center for Specialized Professional Support, and take the journey through Could this be YOUR LIFE.  This interactive game will teach you about the consequences of making career and life choices.

    To access this interactive game, visit the Could this be YOUR LIFE External link opens in a new windowweb site.


  • Job Corps: education and training programs for young adults.
    Job Corps logo Welcome to Job Corps Chicago Region, dedicated to helping youth aged 16 yrs - 24 yrs find success through education and career technical training.  Whether you are a student, parent, or employer we invite you to explore this site to learn more about how the Job Corps program can benefit you.  The federally funded program serves the entire United States, including the 18 centers in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, and Wisconsin, known as the Chicago Region.  Where do I sign up? Link opens in a new window

  • Looking for Free Online Courses to Improve your Computer Skills?
    GCF logo

    If you answered Yes to the above question, then take a look at the Goodwill Community Foundation (GCF) Global Learning website.  Sponsored by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACT), Global Learning offers free online tutorials covering the basics of computers, the Internet, Microsoft Office and life skills.  GCF Global Learning also offers free online classes covering Microsoft Access, Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.

    For more information and to access this free online site, visit the Goodwill Community Foundation (GCF) Global Learning External link opens in a new windowweb site.


  • Looking for Wage Information in the State of Illinois?
    IDES Wage Information Logo

    The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) provides information on entry level, median, and experienced hourly and annual wages for occupations in the State of Illinois.

    Wage information is available for Illinois, Metropolitan Areas, Economic Development Areas, counties and Local Workforce Areas.  To access this information, visit the IDES Wage Information External link opens in a new windowwebsite. 


  • Visit Career Coach
    Career Coach a free online personalized career counselor for women and men.  Find the right career and make a step-by-step plan to reach your goals.  Visit the Career Coach web site to learn more External link opens in a new window.

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