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Barge Boat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ameri-Force

Stick Welder 1A

Channelview, TX

Grind barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks, and external surface areas in preparation for welding. * Weld barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks ...

Southwest Shipyard Lp

Welder (SMAW)

Channelview, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Grind barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks, and external surface areas in preparation for welding. * Weld barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks ...

Orion Marine Group

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

Incumbents are responsible for the Tugboat and Barge while these vessels are underway going to or ... A minimum of 3 years of Boat Captain experience and master boat license for tugboat is required.

New

Schneider

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

Incumbents are responsible for the Tugboat and Barge while these vessels are underway going to or ... A minimum of 3 years of Boat Captain experience and master boat license for tugboat is required.

New

TAS Concrete

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

Incumbents are responsible for the Tugboat and Barge while these vessels are underway going to or ... A minimum of 3 years of Boat Captain experience and master boat license for tugboat is required.

New

Orion Group Holdings, Inc.

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

Incumbents are responsible for the Tugboat and Barge while these vessels are underway going to or ... A minimum of 3 years of Boat Captain experience and master boat license for tugboat is required.

Southwest Shipyard Lp

Welder (SMAW)

Houston, TX · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Grind barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks, and external surface areas in preparation for welding. * Weld barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks ...

Southwest Shipyard Lp

Welder (SMAW)

Channelview, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Grind barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks, and external surface areas in preparation for welding. * Weld barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks ...

Southwest Shipyard Lp

Welder (SMAW)

Houston, TX · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Grind barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks, and external surface areas in preparation for welding. * Weld barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks ...

Southwest Shipyard Lp

Welder (FCAW) Night Shift

Houston, TX · On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Grind barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks, and external surface areas in preparation for welding. * Weld barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks ...

The Lindy Group

Inland Marine Boat Pilot

Monaca, PA

$44.96/hr

Assisting with marine construction activities including pile driving operations and barge crane ... The Boat Pilot is expected to operate vessels safely while supporting efficient marine construction ...

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Barge Boat information

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$9

$18

$25

How much do barge boat jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge boat in the United States is $18.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are barge boats and what are they used for?

Barge boats are flat-bottomed vessels primarily designed to transport heavy goods and materials along rivers, canals, and other inland waterways. They are commonly used for moving bulk items such as coal, grain, sand, or construction materials, and can be either self-propelled or towed by tugboats. Barge boats play a crucial role in the shipping industry because they offer an efficient, cost-effective way to move large quantities of cargo over long distances. Their shallow draft makes them ideal for navigating shallow waters where larger ships cannot go. In some regions, barge boats are also used for housing, tourism, or recreation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Barge Boat Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Barge Boat Operator, you need a valid merchant mariner credential, knowledge of navigation, cargo handling, and safety regulations, often gained through formal training or apprenticeship. Familiarity with marine communication devices, GPS systems, and barge-specific equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are important soft skills for ensuring smooth operations and responding effectively to challenges on the water. These skills and qualifications are critical for safe, efficient transport of goods and compliance with maritime laws.

What is the difference between Barge Boat vs Tugboat?

AspectBarge Boat
CredentialsTypically no formal licensing required; crew may need safety certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates on inland or coastal waterways, often stationary or slow-moving
Industry UsageUsed for transporting bulk goods, construction materials, or equipment
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for their roles in waterway transport and cargo movement

While both Barge Boats and Tugboats operate on waterways, Barge Boats are primarily used for carrying cargo and are often stationary or slow-moving, whereas Tugboats are designed to tow or push barges and other vessels. Tugboats are equipped with powerful engines and are essential for maneuvering large loads, while Barge Boats focus on cargo transport without significant propulsion capabilities. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the right vessel for specific maritime tasks.

What are some common challenges faced by barge boat operators, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Barge boat operators frequently encounter challenges such as navigating through varying weather conditions, managing long or irregular work hours, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. New hires can prepare by familiarizing themselves with maritime safety protocols, building strong communication skills for effective teamwork, and maintaining adaptability for changing schedules. Gaining hands-on experience and staying updated with industry best practices can help ease the transition into this demanding but rewarding role.
More about Barge Boat jobs
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Barge Boat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Boat job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,923 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Push Boat / Barge Captain

Push Boat / Barge Captain

ADMIRAL CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT

North Palm Beach, FL • On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Full or Part-Time Push Boat Captain for Marine Construction Company

Push Boat: twin screw 500 HP

Barge 36' wide X 60' Long


Company Description

General Contractor - Marine Construction