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Barge Boat Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Archer Daniels Midland

$245/day

ADM is seeking a laborer to work as a deckhand under the direction of a Captain on a tug boat at ... Assisting barge cleaners, mechanics, and welders may also be required * Assist the captain with ...

ADM

Fleet Deckhand - Mt. Vernon, IN

Mount Vernon, IN · On-site

$245/hr

ADM is seeking a laborer to work as a deckhand under the direction of a Captain on a tug boat at ... barge cleaners, mechanics, and welders may also be requiredAssist the captain with required vessel ...

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Barge Boat information

See Indiana salary details

$8

$17

$24

How much do barge boat jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge boat in Indiana is $17.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you get a job on a barge boat?

To get a job on a barge boat, candidates typically need relevant maritime or industrial experience, such as deckhand or engineer roles, and often require certifications like STCW or OSHA safety training. Applying through maritime staffing agencies, job boards, or directly contacting companies that operate barges can help secure employment. Physical fitness and the ability to work in a confined, outdoor environment are also important.

What is a barge boat?

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?

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.
What are popular job titles related to Barge Boat jobs in Indiana? For Barge Boat jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Barge Boat jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Barge Boat jobs in Indiana are:
Barge Boat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Boat job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,037 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Lower Miss Pilot/Captain (25+ barge experience)

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Jeffersonville, IN

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago

American Commercial Barge Line rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Title: Lower Miss Pilot/Captain (25+ barge experience)
Company: American Commercial Barge Line
Location: Traveling on waterways
Job Type: Full-Time
Schedule: 28 Days Onboard, 28 Days Off OR 14 Days Off
Are you an experienced and dedicated Marine Pilot or Captain ready to lead vessels through the picturesque waterways of the Lower Mississippi? Join American Commercial Barge Line and play a pivotal role in ensuring safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible navigation.
When you join ACBL…
American Commercial Barge Line (ACBL) is one of the largest and most diversified marine transportation companies in the U.S. Our legacy of providing the nation with the most economical, safest, and greenest mode of transportation dates all the way back to 1915, when we began moving coal on the Kentucky River.  We offer a wide range of career paths in both operations and support services. Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the best of the best to join our ACBL team. 
What you will be doing... Your IMPACT 

  • Navigate vessels safely and efficiently along the Upper Mississippi, Lower Mississippi, Illinois Rivers, and other tributaries, considering factors such as currents, weather conditions, and river traffic.
  • Supervise and lead the vessel's crew, ensuring a cohesive and safety-conscious team.
  • Ensure vessels adhere to all federal and local maritime regulations and environmental standards.
  • Respond promptly and effectively to navigational challenges and emergencies to protect the vessel, crew, and cargo.
  • Maintain accurate logs and records of each voyage, including navigational charts and incident reports.
  • Carry out all duties assigned under the Vessel Security Plan as the designated vessel security officer.
  • Enforce all Company policies and vessel specific guidelines in support of the Crew Endurance Management System onboard all vessels
  • Report Certain Dangerous Cargoes (CDC) barges at pick-up, drop-off, and designated mile points to the Inland River Vessel Movement Center

 What we are looking for...

You will need to have:

  • Master of Towing Vessels upon Western Rivers license required
  • Must have an Inland Waters or Near Coastal Endorsement
  • Must meet USCG physical examination requirements
  • Must be able to travel to and from vessel / training locations via air or vehicle.
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license.
  • Ability to work 28 days onboard and 28/14 days off schedule with willingness to work overtime as needed.
  • Must be able to work a 6 hours on / 6 hours off watch or 12-hour watches.
  • Must have experience pushing 25+ barges on the Lower Miss.
  • Must be able to ride in or pilot a crew boat or zodiac to get to/from towing vessel.
  • Must be able to work in all weather conditions.
  • Must maintain valid USCG licensing.
  • Maintain an active TWIC.

Even better if you have:

  • Must have experience pushing tows of 25+ barges.
  • 4+ years of previous experience.

Reasons you will love working at ACBL …

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Opportunity to lead navigational operations in the heartland of the United States.
  • Collaborative and safety-focused work environment
  • Well-maintained and state-of-the-art vessels
  • Commitment to environmental stewardship
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
  • Employee Assistance Program.

What American Commercial Barge Line employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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