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Assistant Barge Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Eastern Dredging

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Marine Dredge & Barge Operator

Deerfield Beach, FL · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

The operator will pilot and position the barge while safely operating the crane, cutterhead ... cause downtime * Assist with mobilization, demobilization, setup, and breakdown of dredging ...

Canal Barge Company, Inc.

Barge Readiness Tech

Sulphur, LA · On-site

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

CBC has grown into a diversified business with 900+ employees operating over 900 vessels. Our ... Travel expenses will be reimbursed. * Assist as needed with barge operations. Perform minor ...

Ingram Barge

Sr. Crane Operator

Ashland City, TN · On-site

Sr. Crane Operator Ingram Marine Group encompasses our operating units involved in transporting ... or storage. * Assist with opening and closing barge cover access doors, and/or removing and ...

New

Colonial Group, Inc.

Tank Barge Assistant

Savannah, GA · On-site

$22/hr

The Tank Barge Assistant supports the safe and efficient transfer of petroleum products between ... Assists the Person in Charge (PIC) with tank barge transfers by means of operating transfer ...

Ingram Barge

Forklift Operator

Ashland City, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

The Forklift Operator at the river terminal is responsible for safely and efficiently operating ... or storage. * Assist with opening and closing barge cover access doors, and/or removing and ...

colonialgroup

Tank Barge Assistant

Savannah, GA

$22/hr

Tank Barge Assistants have the opportunity to become certified Tank Barge PICs (Persons in Charge ... Assists the Person in Charge (PIC) with tank barge transfers by means of operating transfer ...

TREO STAFFING LLC

Barge Washers

Waggaman, LA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

* Set up,, operated, and disassembled barge-Washing equipment, safely. * Attach hosepipes to barge ... Replace machine oil and filters and assist in barge-painting activities. * Individual will perform ...

colonialgroup

Tank Barge Assistant

Savannah, GA · On-site

$22/hr

Tank Barge Assistants have the opportunity to become certified Tank Barge PICs (Persons in Charge ... Assists the Person in Charge (PIC) with tank barge transfers by means of operating transfer ...

TREO STAFFING LLC

Barge Washers

Waggaman, LA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

* Set up,, operated, and disassembled barge-Washing equipment, safely. * Attach hosepipes to barge ... Replace machine oil and filters and assist in barge-painting activities. * Individual will perform ...

TREO STAFFING LLC

Barge Washers

Port Allen, LA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

* Set up,, operated, and disassembled barge-Washing equipment, safely. * Attach hosepipes to barge ... Replace machine oil and filters and assist in barge-painting activities. * Individual will perform ...

TREO STAFFING LLC

Barge Washers

Waggaman, LA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

* Set up,, operated, and disassembled barge-Washing equipment, safely. * Attach hosepipes to barge ... Replace machine oil and filters and assist in barge-painting activities. * Individual will perform ...

TREO STAFFING LLC

Barge Washers

Waggaman, LA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

* Set up,, operated, and disassembled barge-Washing equipment, safely. * Attached hosepipes to barge ... Replace machine oil and filters and assist in barge-painting activities. * Individual will perform ...

TREO STAFFING LLC

Barge Washers

Waggaman, LA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

* Set up,, operated, and disassembled barge-Washing equipment, safely. * Attach hosepipes to barge ... Replace machine oil and filters and assist in barge-painting activities. * Individual will perform ...

Ingram Barge Company

Forklift Operator

Ashland City, TN · On-site

$99/hr

The Forklift Operator at the river terminal is responsible for safely and efficiently operating ... or storage. * Assist with opening and closing barge cover access doors, and/or removing and ...

Ingram Barge Company

Forklift Operator

Ashland City, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

The Forklift Operator at the river terminal is responsible for safely and efficiently operating ... or storage. * Assist with opening and closing barge cover access doors, and/or removing and ...

Ingram Barge Company

Forklift Operator

Ashland City, TN

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

The Forklift Operator at the river terminal is responsible for safely and efficiently operating ... or storage. * Assist with opening and closing barge cover access doors, and/or removing and ...

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Assistant Barge Operator information

What is an assistant barge operator?

Assistant Barge Operators are maritime professionals who support the operation and navigation of barges, which are flat-bottomed vessels used to transport cargo on rivers and canals. Their responsibilities typically include assisting with docking and undocking, handling lines and cargo, monitoring equipment, and ensuring safety procedures are followed on board. They work under the supervision of the Barge Operator or Captain and play a crucial role in the efficient and safe movement of goods by water. This position requires physical stamina, attention to safety regulations, and often involves working in varying weather conditions. Experience and on-the-job training are commonly needed for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant barge operator?

To thrive as an Assistant Barge Operator, you need a solid understanding of maritime operations, safety regulations, and basic mechanical skills, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant maritime certifications such as TWIC and basic safety training. Familiarity with navigation systems, radio communication devices, and barge-specific equipment is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for safe and efficient barge operations. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure the safety of crew and cargo, maintain smooth vessel operations, and comply with maritime regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant barge operators, and how can they prepare for them?

Assistant Barge Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to changing weather conditions, managing long shifts, and maintaining safety protocols on the water. Being prepared requires strong attention to safety, effective communication with the crew, and the ability to stay alert during extended hours. Familiarity with emergency procedures and ongoing training in equipment operation can help new assistants excel and contribute to a safe, efficient barge operation.

What is the difference between Assistant Barge Operator vs Deckhand?

AspectAssistant Barge OperatorDeckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Marine Deckhand CertificationSTCW Basic Safety, Marine Deckhand Certification
Work EnvironmentOn barges, waterways, and marine construction sitesOn ships, boats, and marine vessels
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with barge operations, safety checks, equipment handlingMaintaining vessel cleanliness, mooring, assisting with cargo

Both Assistant Barge Operators and Deckhands work in marine environments, often holding similar certifications. While Assistant Barge Operators focus on supporting barge operations and safety procedures, Deckhands assist with general vessel maintenance and cargo handling. The roles are complementary, with overlapping skills but different primary responsibilities within the maritime industry.

How do I get a job on an assistant barge operator?

To become an assistant barge operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with maritime or safety training certifications such as OSHA or STCW. Relevant experience in maritime operations, strong communication skills, and the ability to work in a team environment are also important for entry into this role.

How much does an assistant barge operator make?

An assistant barge operator typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. The role often requires knowledge of navigation, safety procedures, and operating equipment, with some positions offering overtime or shift differentials.
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Assistant Barge Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Barge Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Marine Dredge & Barge Operator

Eastern Dredging

Deerfield Beach, FL • On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Posted 19 days ago

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Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced, dependable Marine Dredge and Barge Operator to join our team. This is a hands-on position operating a cutterhead-driven vacuum dredge throughout Broward and Palm Beach Counties, with our primary operations based in Deerfield Beach.

The operator will pilot and position the barge while safely operating the crane, cutterhead, hydraulic pump, and related dredging equipment. The ideal candidate has at least two years of marine dredging experience, strong mechanical abilities, and the physical capacity to perform demanding work in an outdoor marine environment.

Responsibilities

  • Pilot, maneuver, position, and secure the dredging barge
  • Operate the cutterhead-driven vacuum dredge
  • Safely operate the barge-mounted crane, cutterhead, hydraulic pump, and associated controls
  • Handle, position, connect, and move dredging hoses and pipelines
  • Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and minor repairs
  • Maintain the Caterpillar engine and hydraulic systems that power the pump, crane, and cutterhead
  • Monitor equipment performance and identify mechanical or hydraulic issues before they cause downtime
  • Assist with mobilization, demobilization, setup, and breakdown of dredging equipment
  • Follow all company, marine, environmental, and jobsite safety requirements
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe barge and work area
  • Communicate effectively with crew members and supervisors

Minimum Qualifications

  • At least two years of experience operating a marine dredge
  • Experience operating or working aboard barges and other marine equipment
  • Ability to safely operate heavy equipment, including cranes and hydraulic machinery
  • Mechanical aptitude and basic troubleshooting ability
  • Physically capable of repeatedly lifting, carrying, and positioning hoses and equipment weighing approximately 45 pounds
  • Comfortable working outdoors in heat, rain, humidity, and marine conditions
  • Able to stand, bend, climb, balance, and perform physical work for extended periods
  • Dependable transportation and consistent attendance
  • Strong awareness of jobsite and marine safety
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a crew

Preferred Qualifications

Preference will be given to candidates with one or more of the following:

  • Additional marine dredging experience
  • Diesel engine, heavy-equipment, or industrial mechanical experience
  • Experience maintaining Caterpillar engines
  • Experience troubleshooting and maintaining hydraulic systems
  • Boat-captain credentials or significant boat-operating experience
  • Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
  • Crane-operating experience or relevant certification
  • Residence in or near Deerfield Beach, Broward County, or Palm Beach County

What We’re Looking For

The right candidate is safety-conscious, mechanically inclined, physically capable, and comfortable taking responsibility for complex marine equipment. Because our dredging system depends on the reliable operation of its engine, hydraulics, pump, crane, and cutterhead, consistent maintenance and attention to detail are essential.

Local applicants are strongly preferred due to the location and nature of our operations.