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Barge Boat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Welder (SMAW)

Channelview, TX ยท 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 ...

Welder (SMAW)

Channelview, TX

$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 ...

Welder (SMAW)

Houston, TX ยท 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 ...

Welder (SMAW)

Channelview, TX ยท 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 ...

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.

Boat/barge operations and maintenance. Over the water waste transfers. Boom operations. Marine oil spill responses. BOWTS operation. Harbor debris clean-up. Watercraft assistance. Pump truck and ...

Welder (SMAW)

Houston, TX ยท 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 ...

Welder (SMAW)

Channelview, TX ยท 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 ...

Welder Helper

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/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 ...

Welder (SMAW)

Houston, TX ยท 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 ...

Welder (FCAW) Night Shift

Houston, TX ยท 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 ...

Welder (SMAW)

Houston, TX

$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 ...

Welder (SMAW)

Channelview, TX

$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 ...

Welder Helper

Channelview, TX ยท On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/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 ...

Welder (FCAW) Night Shift

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Weld barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks, external surface areas, and specialty components & areas with the required number of passes to achieve full penetration welds.

Showing results 21-40

Barge Boat information

See salary details

$9

$18

$25

How much do barge boat jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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.

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.
More about Barge Boat jobs
What cities are hiring for Barge Boat jobs? Cities with the most Barge Boat job openings:
What states have the most Barge Boat jobs? States with the most job openings for Barge Boat jobs include:
Infographic showing various Barge Boat job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $38,923 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Welder (SMAW)

Southwest Shipyard Lp

Channelview, TX โ€ข On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY OF COMPANY

Southwest Shipyard, LP provides gas freeing and cleaning services, steaming, and flaring services, Barge and Boat repair, Surface preparation and painting, water treatment and new construction services to the commercial and government marine industry. Southwest Shipyard owns and operates four (4) shipyards in South Texas with direct deep-water access to the Gulf of Mexico. We take pride in our dedicated and experienced workforce that focuses on Quality, Safety and Environmental Excellence. Our motto is “Faster, Safer, Better”.

JOB SUMMARY

This position is primarily responsible for using electrical currents to fuse metals like steel together to repair parts or build new components. (SMAW)


PAY RANGE

*Pay is determined by Internal Weld Test Classification Results - 3G/4G Weld Test
**HR will contact qualified applicants to schedule on-site weld test.


WORK SCHEDULE

Regular attendance and punctuality are required of all employees.

Varies by Department and/or Location.

Day Shift: 6:00am - 3:30pm
Night Shift: 3:30pm - 12:00am (Midnight)

Overtime and/or Weekend Availability required.

Channelview Location. (18310 Market St, Channelview TX, 77530)

BENEFITS

  • Competitive Salary.
  • Comprehensive Benefits (medical, dental, vision, life).
  • 401(k)/Retirement Savings.
  • Friendly Work Environment.
  • Paid-Time off/Holidays.
  • Career Path Opportunities

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • 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, external surface areas, and specialty components & areas with the required number of passes to achieve full penetration welds.
  • Operate welding & grinding equipment, blowers, hoses, etc., to accomplish weld & repair duties.
  • Must pass a welding test to obtain internal skill classification.
  • Mandatory drug testing prior to employment, and will be subject to random, unannounced drug and/or alcohol tests during employment.
  • Must be able to communicate and take directions from Foreman & Supervisor.
  • Able to work without contact lenses.
  • Required to arrive to work on time and also work overtime hours as required.
  • Understand general policies and procedures as described in the quality & environmental manuals.
  • Required to undergo a training program and participate in refresher training as needed.
  • Must have or be eligible for a TWIC card.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

  • Must be proficient in English and be able to communicate effectively with others; Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
  • Ability to multitask, learn quickly, and meet deadlines as needed.
  • Ability to understand Company Quality Manual and procedures described and required.
  • Ability to manage time and tasks effectively and efficiently.
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent preferred.

PHYSICAL / MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable workplace accommodation.

The individual must also be able to wear and properly utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to work or visit within areas where it is required. This includes hard hat, safety glasses, life vest, respirators, ear plugs, steel toed shoes, personal flotation devices (PFD’s), or other protective equipment as required by the work performed and location the work is being done.

In addition, Employees in this position must also be capable of:

  • Walking, stepping, climbing, or otherwise moving from one location on the job site to another, which may be of varying heights and access parameters.
  • Standing, stooping, bending, crouching, kneeling, squatting, climbing, crawling, or sitting for long periods of time.
  • Repetitive movements by feet, shoulders, arms, wrists, hands and back in performance of work.
  • Climbing stairs, and/or vertical ladders of varying heights.
  • Working in confined work areas and/or elevated heights.
  • Lifting objects of minimum of 10lbs, with maximum single-person lift limit of 50lbs, with frequent lifting and carrying.
  • Adapting to temperature changes, outdoor conditions, and prolonged exposure to dusty, wet, or humid conditions, loud noises, and vibration.
  • Visually inspecting equipment and verifying information, often in small print.
  • Applying sideways/upward/downward pressure to tighten and loosen hardware.

The Company expects and requires all employees to observe and fulfill all safety responsibilities as outlined in workplace safety training and actively work toward maintaining a safe workplace. Failure to do so can result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Regular attendance and punctuality are required of all employees. Employment at Southwest Shipyard, LP is on an “at-will” basis. There is no contract of employment between Southwest Shipyard, L.P., and anyone or all its employees unless explicitly stated elsewhere. Employment security cannot be guaranteed for or by any employee. No Manager, Supervisor, or employee of the Company has any authority to enter into an agreement for employment for any specified period of time or to make an agreement for employment other than at-will. Only the Owner or President has the authority to modify the at-will relationship, and then only in writing specifically addressed to the employee on this issue and signed by Southwest Shipyard, L.P. Executive.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.


EEO Statement

Southwest Shipyard, LP is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

Southwest Shipyard, LP participates in the E-Verify Employment Verification Program.


Southwest Shipyard, LP is not currently accepting unsolicited resumes from search firms. Regardless of past practice, all resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Southwest Shipyard, LP, via-email, the Internet or directly to hiring managers at Southwest Shipyard, LP in any form without a valid written agreement in place for that specific position will be deemed the sole property of Southwest Shipyard, LP. As a result, no fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Southwest Shipyard, LP