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Barge Boat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Southwest Shipyard Lp

Welder (FCAW) Night Shift

Houston, TX · 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.

Southwest Shipyard Lp

Welder (FCAW) Night Shift

Houston, TX · 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.

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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How much do barge boat jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 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 do deckhands do on a barge?

Deckhands on a barge are responsible for tasks such as securing cargo, performing maintenance, handling lines and mooring equipment, and assisting with navigation and safety procedures. They often work outdoors in various weather conditions and need to follow safety protocols and use tools like ropes, winches, and safety gear.

How much do you get paid to drive a barge?

Barge boat captains and crew members typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the vessel. Salaries can vary based on certifications, such as a license from the U.S. Coast Guard, and the complexity of the waterways navigated.

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.

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 certifications in safety, navigation, or operating heavy equipment. Applying through maritime companies, crew agencies, or directly contacting companies that operate barges is common, and physical fitness and the ability to work in confined environments are often required.

How much do barge workers make?

Barge boat workers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific roles such as deckhand or captain. Salaries can increase with certifications, specialized skills, and longer shifts in the maritime industry.

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:
What job categories do people searching Barge Boat jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Barge Boat jobs are:
Barge Boat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Boat job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,923 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Harbor Boat Pilot, Vicksburg, MS

Harbor Boat Pilot, Vicksburg, MS

Ergon, Inc

Vicksburg, MS • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Ergon Inc. rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 75 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Harbor Boat Pilot

Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a full time Harbor Boat Pilot at its Vicksburg location.

If you are a hard-working person who likes to help others and be proud of the physical work that you accomplish, then this might be a job that you would enjoy. EMIS services vessels and tows and this job allows you to be a part of that support of the river crews.

Ergon is a family-owned oil and gas company based in the Jackson, MS area with facilities across the US. EMIS is a subsidiary with facilities that support marine traffic up and down the Mississippi River. Our facilities are located in Vicksburg, MS, Memphis, TN, and Wood River, IL.

Ergon offers a competitive benefits package: 401(k) Matching, Health, Life, Dental, Holidays, Vacation, Sick Leave, Tuition Assistance, and Profit Sharing

The Harbor Boat Pilot ensures the safe and efficient operation and performance of his crew, vessel and tow in a manner that complies with company policy, U. S. Coast Guard rules and regulations and federal, state, and local laws. Assist Fuel Boat Pilot in overseeing EMIS operations when upper management is not available.

Harbor Boat Pilot Responsibilities include the following:

  • Ensure that company policy, rules and regulations are followed.

  • Report violations of EMIS company policy or violations of federal, state or local laws.

  • Ensure deck crew are performing their duties.

  • Inspect all areas of vessel and tow to ensure safety, proper maintenance and a clean vessel is ready for voyage.

  • Provide customer service according to the EMIS Mission Statement.

  • Captain has the right to reject of any tow configuration or barge.

  • Ensure all crewmembers on EMIS vessels and docks are using Proper PPE.

  • Assist other operations as required by management.

  • Maintain EMIS fleets and equipment while documenting fleet check once every six hours or according to MARSEC levels.

  • Inspect all barges according to the Dry Cargo/Chemical Barge Inspection Report, notify a supervisor immediately of any damage and take appropriate measures to ensure safety.

  • Responsible for reviewing the tow orders and determining whether the boat is of sufficient horsepower.

  • Report incidents immediately to appropriate supervisor and enter in vessel logs.

  • Order supplies as needed.

  • Ensure fire extinguishers are recharged or refilled as required for each type of extinguisher.

  • Ensure fire hose with nozzle is at each fire station.

  • Ensure dewatering pumps are on board the vessel and ready for use.

  • Ensure adequate number of approved life preservers are on board.

  • Ensure adequate quantity of first aid supplies onboard the vessel.

  • Ensure crewmembers are properly trained in emergency procedures including fire drills.

  • Chip, Buff, Prime and paint vessel and equipment as needed.

  • Complete Towing Vessel Record in TowWorks each shift which includes the following:

    • Engine Room Log
    • Fuel Operations Log
    • Pre-Sail Check List

    When a Harbor Boat Pilot is assigned the task of training an upcoming pilot the current pilot is considered the "Master of the Vessel" and is responsible for and will be held accountable for the actions of the trainee in the performance of their duties.

    Captain is required to have a safety briefing with crew prior to engaging in any barge tow work, barge movement activity or fuel transfers. This briefing must be documented in the towing vessel record.

Harbor Boat Pilot Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED

  • Must have a U.S. Coast Guard license as Master of Towing Vessels/Limited Master of Towing

  • Must have sufficient time with EMIS to prove competence and leadership skills as determined by the Port Captain and Vice President, for promotion from within the company

  • Must be able to swim

  • Valid TWIC Card (Transportation Workers Identification Credential)

  • Must have a valid driver's license

We are an EEO/AAP employer.

Position: Harbor Boat Pilot


Employment offer contingent upon pre-employment drug test, background check, and MVR.

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