Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question:
How much money will I make?
Answer:
We don’t know. That depends on many issues, i.e. how many hours you work, both
regular and overtime; your scheduled hours; completing the contract as agreed
upon, etc. There are many factors involved; however, if you work as scheduled &
you finish your contract; you should return home with a sizeable savings.
Question:
How long is the contract?
Answer:
That depends on when you become hired. The full season will last approximately
110 days from start to finish. We do not know the exact day that the season will
end; however, history has shown us that the start date can be as early as June
11th and the finish date is not later than the 10th of October.
Question:
What kind of work will I do?
Answer:
Once employed with Signature Seafoods as a processor you will be called upon to
do many different jobs in the Factory. You might be called upon to clean/gut
fish, grade fish for size and quality, load up fish pans, break-up pans of
frozen salmon, etc. Just be prepared to do any and all job functions throughout
the factory.
Question:
What hours and days will I be working?
Answer:
Your contract requires you to work a scheduled 12 hours per shift. You are
further required to work every shift of every day of the week. Sometimes you
might work less hours per shift or sometimes even more if needed. Further, you
may find that not every shift is called upon to work. It all depends on the
Salmon.
Question:
What should I bring with me?
Answer:
Keep your packing to a maximum weight of 45 pounds per airline regulations or
they will charge you for the extra weight. You may not bring more than 2 bags.
Use a duffel bag for packing, space is very limited on site and there is no
place to store standard luggage. We suggest you bring older-used clothing, i.e.
sweats, jeans, socks, tennis shoes or utility boots, flannel shirts. Bring 3
months supply of toiletries, & prescribed medicine(s). We sell a very limited
amount of hygienic products on-board so if you require a special product you had
better bring it. As for sleeping gear we provide bedding so you will not need to
bring a sleeping bag. However, we do not supply towels or washcloths.
Question:
Is there a store where we can get things?
Answer:
We have a small sea store where we stock a limited line of tobacco products
(sold at Alaskan high prices), batteries, candies, snacks, toiletries, film,
disposable camera's and some clothing.
Remember, anything you charge at the store will be deducted directly out of your
paycheck and it can add-up fast.
Question:
How remote is it?
Answer:
Very! The Lucky Buck barge is located about 30 miles NNE of Ketchikan. The only
way to or from the plant is either by floatplane or by boat. Flight time from
Ketchikan is about 20-30 minutes; sailing time is about 3 hours. Either mode of
transportation is always dependent upon the weather. Many times the low clouds
and rough seas make us isolated for days on end.
The M/V Ocean Fresh will steam to processing locations and anchor up off
shore. You will ride the boat to and from Alaska.
Question:
Will I be able to go fishing & hiking?
Answer:
Yes, to a limited degree if you are at the Neets Bay site. You will have to have
your own fishing equipment and you must buy a fishing license from the Alaska
Department of Fish and Game. As for hiking, you will have complete access to the
beach by way of our floating dock and can enjoy strolling along the
beach.
The M/V Ocean Fresh is anchored to far off shore; however, you can purchase a
fishing license, so you can fish during your off time.
Question:
If I finish my contract successfully what can I expect in return from Signature
Seafoods, Inc.
Answer:
Please check our linked web page “BENEFITS”. This site will give you an overall
summary of the types of financial rewards and reimbursements you can expect once
the season is over.
Question:
How is the Food?
Answer:
Great! We have complete 2 entree meals served every 6 hours. We also provide
fresh baked goods and packaged snacks 24 hours a day in the Galley. Signature
Seafoods takes great pride in their Galley and in the menu and food served. We
consider it the best in the Industry.
Question:
Is there any entertainment to speak of?
Answer:
We suggest that you bring along a walkman & some books. If you cannot afford to
lose or have your tapes & CD’s destroyed than do not bring them. The Lucky Buck
has a recreational room has couches, ping pong, foosball and satellite TV;
however the reception is dependant upon the weather. We have a limited video
library, so if there is something you like, bring it up with you or have it
sent. The M/V Ocean Fresh has a TV in the galley to watch movies on.
Question:
Will I be able to send and receive mail?
Answer:
US Mail is sent at least twice a week with the availability of floatplane
service. We also establish a PO Box for all incoming mail. This
address will be made available once we start-up the operation.
E-mail is not available.
Question:
What happens if I quit or get terminated?
Answer:
We certainly hope that this does not happen with any of our employees. But, if
it does, it is expensive. You will forfeit your r/t airfare deduction ($700.00),
and the room and board reimbursement.
Question:
What are the living and sleeping quarters like?
Answer:
They are small and with very little privacy. Each berthing space is limited in
size and is similar to dormitory type housing. The recreational areas,
specifically the TV lounge, are always filled with crew. Remember, you are up
there to work and to make and save money, not to be on vacation.
Question:
How do I do my banking?
Answer:
Due to our remote location, you must be prepared to do all banking by US Mail.
Bring checking & savings deposit slips with you. You are paid on a bi-weekly
basis (every 2 weeks) so you can keep up with your bills & financial
responsibilities if you wish to. If you just want to keep your paycheck with
you, we do provide a “Safe” where you can keep your checks secure. We do not
provide direct deposit banking to our employees.
Question:
If I qualify for reimbursement money, when will I get it paid to me?
Answer:
If you complete your contract as written you will be reimbursed on your final
check.