Mess Attendant

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a temporary relief Mess Attendant to join the Ship Operations Department. This is a temporary, casual, non-exempt position, and is eligible for casual benefits. This positon will begin mid-February 2024.

Reports to the Steward. Works in the galley and primarily responsible for the cleanliness of the mess decks and galley; collects and distributes linen under direction of the Steward; may assist supervisor in preparation of meals.

• Cleans and maintains sanitary galley spaces including utensils, equipment, mess decks, storerooms, access ladders, freezers, and refrigeration compartments.
• May prepare fruits, vegetables, and other foods for cooking.
• Assists in storing provisions and organizing galley dry stores.
• Performs other duties as required.

• Prefer a high school diploma or equivalent education and Mess Attendant experience on a similar vessel in the absence of a degree, equivalent work experience.
• Requires a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner's Credentials endorsed as a Food Handler.
• Candidates must be able to work effectively under adverse weather conditions.
• All unlicensed personnel must have all applicable training as required by the Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW 95).
• Must be able to pass a Pre-employment DOT drug screen
• Must hold an Unexpired (STCW Expiration date) USCG med Certificate.

All marine crew, including this position, must provide proof of COVID vaccination in order to begin your employment. The definition of “fully” vaccinated for purposes of shipboard personnel is the original double/single dose vaccination, depending on which vaccine was used (Pfizer, Moderna, or J&J), plus a booster and a period of two weeks after the booster. Boosters are mandatory if 6 months has lapsed since completing 2 dose series of Pfizer or Moderna, or 2 months since 1 dose of J+J.

• All marine positions have essential functions that personnel must be able to perform, minimum physical capacities and requirements that all personnel must meet, and working conditions that may be considered hazardous.
• Essential Functions
• Work at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week.
• Work at sea for three to five months continuously.
• Live and work in cramped quarters, frequently in bad weather and with violent ship motion.
• Pass examinations for visual acuity, color sense, and hearing as established in Title 46 CFR Parts 10 and 12, and pass a physical evaluation as described in the enclosed Navigation and Vessel Inspection Articles 6-89.
• Climb steep and vertical ladders, and enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills up to two feet high.
• Participate in emergency drills and in launching lifeboats and life rafts.
• Perform physical labor, climb and handle moderate weights and equipment over 50 pounds.