ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Barge Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Commercial Barge Line

Vessel Cook

Memphis, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

American Commercial Barge Line Location: Traveling on waterways Job Type: Full-Time Are you a talented and passionate cook ready to embark on an exciting culinary adventure across the inland ...

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Vessel Cook

Paducah, KY

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

American Commercial Barge Line Location: Traveling on waterways Job Type: Full-Time Are you a talented and passionate cook ready to embark on an exciting culinary adventure across the inland ...

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Vessel Cook

Harahan, LA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

American Commercial Barge Line Location: Traveling on waterways Job Type: Full-Time Are you a talented and passionate cook ready to embark on an exciting culinary adventure across the inland ...

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Vessel Cook

Vacherie, LA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

American Commercial Barge Line Location: Traveling on waterways Job Type: Full-Time Are you a talented and passionate cook ready to embark on an exciting culinary adventure across the inland ...

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Vessel Cook

Convent, LA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

American Commercial Barge Line Location: Traveling on waterways Job Type: Full-Time Are you a talented and passionate cook ready to embark on an exciting culinary adventure across the inland ...

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Vessel Cook

Cairo, IL

$14 - $17.50/hr

American Commercial Barge Line Location: Traveling on waterways Job Type: Full-Time Are you a talented and passionate cook ready to embark on an exciting culinary adventure across the inland ...

genesis

Tankerman Marine Vessels Inland

Houston, TX · On-site

Troubleshoot barge problems; * Develop a complete knowledge of all barges * 3.Housekeeping Duties ... Cooking when needed. * 4.Safety Duties * Reporting any hazardous or unsafe condition to the Master ...

genesis

Tankerman Marine Vessels Inland

Houston, TX

Troubleshoot barge problems; * Develop a complete knowledge of all barges * 3.Housekeeping Duties ... Cooking when needed. * 4.Safety Duties * Reporting any hazardous or unsafe condition to the Master ...

genesis

AB Marine Vessels Offshore

Houston, TX

Troubleshoot barge problems; * Develop a complete knowledge of all barges * 3. Housekeeping Duties ... Cooking when needed. * 4. Safety Duties * Reporting any hazardous or unsafe condition to the Master ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsBarge Cook Jobs

Barge Cook information

See salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do barge cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge cook in the United States is $16.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Barge Cook job?

A Barge Cook is responsible for preparing meals for crew members on a barge, typically in remote locations. They plan menus, order supplies, maintain kitchen cleanliness, and ensure food safety standards are met. The cook must be skilled in preparing hearty meals that meet the dietary needs and preferences of the crew. Since barges operate in isolated areas, the cook must work efficiently with limited resources. This role requires strong organizational skills and the ability to work independently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Barge Cook position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Barge Cook, you need solid culinary skills, food safety knowledge, and experience in preparing meals in bulk, often supported by a food handler’s certificate or similar credential. Familiarity with industrial kitchen equipment and inventory management systems is essential for efficient operation aboard a barge. Strong organizational skills, adaptability, and the ability to work independently and harmoniously in close quarters are highly valued soft skills for this role. These capabilities are crucial to ensure crew members receive nutritious, timely meals while maintaining high safety and hygiene standards in a remote, self-contained environment.

What is the highest paying job for a cook?

The highest paying jobs for cooks typically include executive chefs, head chefs, or specialized culinary roles in high-end restaurants, hotels, or private clubs. These positions often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and culinary certifications, and can offer salaries significantly above standard line cook roles.

How to become a cook on a ship?

To become a cook on a ship, you typically need relevant culinary training or experience, and often a maritime or STCW certification such as Basic Safety Training. Employers may require knowledge of food safety, sanitation standards, and the ability to work in confined, offshore environments. Prior experience in commercial kitchens and familiarity with shipboard life can improve job prospects.

What is a typical work schedule and environment like for a Barge Cook?

A Barge Cook typically works on a rotational schedule, such as two weeks on and two weeks off, living and working aboard the vessel during shifts. The kitchen environment is compact but well-equipped, and you'll often prepare three daily meals and snacks for a crew ranging from a handful to several dozen people. You'll generally work independently, but frequent communication with deckhands and supervisors is necessary to accommodate changing schedules or dietary needs. The job requires flexibility and resilience, as you may be away from home for extended periods and must manage supplies efficiently. However, this unique setting fosters strong camaraderie on board and can provide valuable experience for advancing in the maritime or hospitality industries.

How do you get a job on a barge?

To get a job as a barge cook, candidates typically need relevant culinary experience, maritime safety training, and sometimes a merchant mariner credential or STCW certification. Applying through maritime staffing agencies, job boards, or directly to companies operating barges is common, and physical fitness and the ability to work in confined, remote environments are important. Experience with large-scale kitchens and knowledge of safety protocols are also valuable.

How much do cooks make on a barge?

Barge cooks typically earn between $2,000 and $4,000 per month, depending on experience, the size of the crew, and the employer. They often work long shifts in a confined environment and may receive additional benefits such as room and board.
More about Barge Cook jobs
What cities are hiring for Barge Cook jobs? Cities with the most Barge Cook job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Barge Cook jobs? The most popular types of Barge Cook jobs are:
What states have the most Barge Cook jobs? States with the most job openings for Barge Cook jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Barge Cook jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Barge Cook jobs are:
Barge Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Cook job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,340 per year, or $16 per hour.

Able Seaman- Anchorage Harbor

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge

Anchorage, AK

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

AB – Harbor Division

We are Alaska’s tug and barge company – and are growing.

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge has provided marine services since 1924. We specialize in harbor services throughout Alaska. Visit www.cookinlettug.com to learn more about us.

Why Cook Inlet Tug & Barge? 

Simply put, Cook Inlet Tug & Barge is a team of exceptional merchant mariners. If you are looking for steady year-round work and enjoy what you do, this is an opportunity of a lifetime! We are committed to employee safety and take pride in our professional operations.

 

We offer competitive pay and a full package of benefits to include medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and more to our full-time employees.

Get your application in today at: https://www.cookinlettug.com/careers!

Roles and Responsibilities

 

As an Able Seaman (AB) you will be responsible to keep our vessels in a state of readiness and keep things running smoothly.  

Working at the direction of the Captain to perform various tasks such as:  

  • Maintain the vessel in a constant and proper state of repair and operational readiness by completing required vessel inspections, cleaning tasks, and general maintenance of the boat.
  • Engine room duties as assigned.
  • Maintain a watch system.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Equipment used will include winches, capstan, pike pole, and pumps. 

You are an integral part of the team, maintaining a safe work environment on the vessel by implementing company policies, procedures, and general maritime industry-standards.  

 Qualifications:

 
  • Able Bodied (AB) Seaman endorsement. 
  • Valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC).
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
  • QMED rating preferred.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent, equivalent experience will be considered.
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States.
Experience and Skills:  
  • Two years previous experience as an AB
  • Two years of sea-going experience on towing vessels (preferred).

Working conditions:

  • Lodging and provisions on the vessel.
  • Must be physically fit to climb aboard tugs and barges, ascend and descend ladders and balance while aboard vessels in a seaway; kneel, stoop, use stairs, reach overhead, and stand for long periods.
  • Comfortable with heights or narrow walkways.
  • Must be able to work 12 hours a day every day.
  • Exposure to all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, heat, wind, etc.).
  • Year-round work, typical shift is two weeks on/off.

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse workforce and taking affirmative action to employ and advance qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. We are a drug-free employer and a participant of the E-Verify Employment Verification Program.

Explore transportation and logistics industry job opportunities from Hawaii to Alaska, and Washington State to throughout the Caribbean. Visit saltchukjobboard.com today!

Apply