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Barge Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JSW Steel USA

Barge Loader

Baytown, TX · On-site

$19/hr

The Barge Loader is responsible for safely unloading heavy slabs, ranging from 30 to 32 tons. This role also involves but not limited to loading the slabs onto railcars, ensuring proper load balance ...

Canal Barge Company

Barge Readiness Technician

Houston, TX · On-site

$35K - $36K/yr

CANAL BARGE COMPANY BARGE READINESS TECHNICIAN *Channelview, TX Area* Canal Barge Company (CBC), headquartered in New Orleans, is a leading company in the inland marine industry with a history of ...

TerralRiver Service

BARGE WORKER

Blytheville, AR · On-site

Terral RiverService, Inc. is currently looking for dependable and hard-working barge cleaners for our cleaning docks. Experience is preferred but not required. Essential Job Functions: Applicants ...

Terral RiverService

BARGE WORKER

Blytheville, AR · On-site

Terral RiverService, Inc. is currently looking for dependable and hard-working barge cleaners for our cleaning docks. Experience is preferred but not required. Essential Job Functions: Applicants ...

Terral River Service Inc

BARGE WORKER

Blytheville, AR · On-site

Terral RiverService, Inc. is currently looking for dependable and hard-working barge cleaners for our cleaning docks. Experience is preferred but not required. Essential Job Functions: Applicants ...

Kirby Corporation

Barge Inspector

Channelview, TX · On-site

Barge inspections * Special transfer operations * Cargo stripping operations * Internal barge inspections * Barge pressure readings * Inspect drip pans * Inspect void tanks * Inspect tool tightness ...

TREO STAFFING LLC

Barge Cleaners

Waggaman, LA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

* Set up,, operated, and disassembled barge-cleaning equipment, safely. * Attached hosepipes to barge and hooked it up with crane, properly. * Stripped barge and cleaned it with high-pressure water ...

Kirby Corporation

Barge Inspector

Channelview, TX · On-site

Barge inspections * Special transfer operations * Cargo stripping operations * Internal barge inspections * Barge pressure readings * Inspect drip pans * Inspect void tanks * Inspect tool tightness ...

Kirby Corporation

Barge Inspector

Channelview, TX

Barge inspections * Special transfer operations * Cargo stripping operations * Internal barge inspections * Barge pressure readings * Inspect drip pans * Inspect void tanks * Inspect tool tightness ...

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 and hooked it up with crane, properly. * Stripped barge and cleaned it with high-pressure water ...

TREO STAFFING LLC

Barge Washers

La Place, LA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

* Set up,, operated, and disassembled barge-Washing equipment, safely. * Attached hosepipes to barge and hooked it up with crane, properly. * Stripped barge and cleaned it with high-pressure water ...

TREO STAFFING LLC

Barge Washers

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

* Set up,, operated, and disassembled barge-Washing equipment, safely. * Attached hosepipes to barge and hooked it up with crane, properly. * Stripped barge and cleaned it with high-pressure water ...

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Barge information

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$11

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$23

How much do barge jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge in the United States is $17.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a barge worker do?

Barge workers are professionals who operate, maintain, and manage barges—flat-bottomed boats used to transport goods and materials, typically on rivers and canals. Their duties may include loading and unloading cargo, ensuring safe navigation, performing maintenance, and following safety regulations. Some barge workers also assist with towing operations or work as part of a crew under a captain or pilot. This job requires physical stamina, attention to safety, and sometimes specialized maritime certifications.

What are different types of jobs on a barge?

A barge is a flat-bottomed ship that carries freight and cargo down rivers and canals, and there are a number of jobs on a barge, depending on the size of the vessel. Similar to a barge, a tugboat is flat-bottomed and used to tow other ships. Like any other ship, a barge needs a captain, whose responsibilities are to ensure that the daily operation of the barge goes smoothly, the itinerary is set, and all cargo is stowed properly. Sometimes, a captain also performs the duties of a pilot, while in other cases there is a separate job for a pilot. Other jobs on a barge include mates, engineers, deckhands, oilers, and chefs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a barge operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Barge Operator, you need knowledge of marine operations, navigation, cargo handling, and relevant licensing such as a Merchant Mariner Credential or state pilot license. Proficiency with navigation systems, radio communication equipment, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are essential soft skills for this position. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient transport of goods and compliance with maritime regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by barge operators and how can they be managed on the job?

Barge operators often encounter challenges such as navigating changing water levels, unpredictable weather, and coordinating with port authorities for docking and loading schedules. Effective communication with crew members and other vessels is essential to maintain safety and efficiency. Staying up-to-date with regulations and maintaining equipment are also key aspects of the role. Building strong teamwork and problem-solving skills helps barge operators handle these challenges and ensure smooth operations.

What is the difference between Barge vs Crane Operator?

AspectBargeCrane Operator
Primary RoleOperates and manages boats used for transporting goods or equipment on waterOperates cranes to lift, move, and position heavy materials
Work EnvironmentWatercraft, ports, and dockyardsConstruction sites, ports, industrial facilities
CertificationsMaritime licenses, STCW certificationsCrane operation certifications, OSHA safety training

While both roles are essential in port and maritime industries, a Barge primarily involves operating watercraft for transportation, whereas a Crane Operator focuses on lifting and moving heavy loads using cranes. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the maritime and construction sectors.

How do you get a job on a barge?

To get a job on a barge, candidates typically need relevant maritime or industrial experience, such as in navigation, engineering, or deckhand roles. Certifications like STCW or OSHA safety training are often required, and job opportunities are usually found through maritime companies, job boards, or industry networks.

How much do you get paid to drive a barge?

Barge captains and crew members typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the vessel. Pay may also include overtime, benefits, and per diem for long shifts or remote environments. Certification and maritime training are often required for higher-paying positions.
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Barge jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,994 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Barge Loader

JSW Steel USA

Baytown, TX • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

JSW Steel rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

JSW Steel USA is seeking to hire an experienced Barge Loader to join our team!
The Barge Loader is responsible for safely unloading heavy slabs, ranging from 30 to 32 tons. This role also involves but not limited to loading the slabs onto railcars, ensuring proper load balance, alignment, and adherence to railcar capacity limits. Success in this position requires physical fitness, the ability to work in a variety of weather conditions, and a strong focus on safety.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Safely unload 30 or more tons slabs from barges using an overhead hoist, ensuring load balance and stable.
  • Verify railcar capacity, align slabs for secure placement, and coordinate with the team for efficiency and safety.
  • Use ladders safely to access barges and railcars, maintain equipment, and perform regular inspections.
  • Keep the barge dock and rail loading areas clean and organized.
  • Adhere to safety protocols by wearing PPE/PFDs.
  • Report hazards to supervisors, and participating in daily equipment inspections, ensuring the crane is locked during non-operational hours.

Required Knowledge & Skills:
  • High school Diploma or GED.
  • Active TWIC card is preferred.
  • Prior experience handling heavy materials (30+ tons) using overhead cranes, particularly at seaports, is highly preferred.
  • Familiarity with barge lid handling, railcar loading, and working in various weather conditions is also beneficial.
  • Strong understanding of load balancing and alignment principles.
  • Proficiency in using ladders safely to access confined spaces like barges and railcars.
  • Keen attention to detail when verifying railcar capacity and aligning loads.
  • Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills and communication skills.

JSW Steel USA is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, genetic information or any other legally protected categories. JSW Steel USA is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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About JSW Steel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Coal, metals and minerals mining

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Baytown, TX, US

Year founded

2007

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