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Barge Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge

AB-Summer Seasonal

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

Join the Cook Inlet Tug & Barge Team! ️ Are you ready for a maritime adventure that goes beyond the ordinary? Cook Inlet Tug & Barge, Alaska's premier tug and barge company, is calling for ...

New

Cook Inlet Tug and Barge LLC

AB-Summer Seasonal

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

Join the Cook Inlet Tug & Barge Team! ️ Are you ready for a maritime adventure that goes beyond the ordinary? Cook Inlet Tug & Barge, Alaska's premier tug and barge company, is calling for ...

New

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge

AB-Summer Seasonal

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge, Alaska's premier tug and barge company, is calling for exceptional Able Seamen (AB) to join our growing team. Why Cook Inlet Tug & Barge? At Cook Inlet Tug & Barge, we don't ...

New

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 ...

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge

Mate- Summer Seasonal

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$36.75 - $40.25/hr

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge-Alaska's premier tug and barge operator-is seeking a skilled Mate of Tow for the upcoming season. This role offers the opportunity to work aboard towing vessels supporting ...

New

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Vessel Cook

Paducah, KY · On-site

$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

$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

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 ...

Kirby Corporation

Tank Barge PIC

Baton Rouge, LA

$21.75 - $25.25/hr

Swimming, cooking, and washing clothes. Qualifications Tank Barge PIC: A Tank Barge PIC License is REQUIRED. Tank Barge PIC TRAINEE: No License Required. License Requirements: * Must possess a valid ...

Kirby Corporation

Tank Barge PIC

Baton Rouge, LA

$21.75 - $25.25/hr

Swimming, cooking, and washing clothes. Tank Barge PIC: A Tank Barge PIC License is REQUIRED. Tank Barge PIC TRAINEE: No License Required. License Requirements: * Must possess a valid and current ...

Kirby Corporation

Tank Barge PIC

Baton Rouge, LA

$21.75 - $25.25/hr

Swimming, cooking, and washing clothes. Qualifications Tank Barge PIC: A Tank Barge PIC License is REQUIRED. Tank Barge PIC TRAINEE: No License Required. License Requirements: * Must possess a valid ...

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Barge Cook information

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$8

$16

$22

How much do barge cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 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.
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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.

AB-Summer Seasonal

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge

Anchorage, AK • On-site

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

Temporary

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Able Seaman (AB)

Exciting Opportunity for Adventurous Mariners! Join the Cook Inlet Tug & Barge Team! ️

Are you ready for a maritime adventure that goes beyond the ordinary? Cook Inlet Tug & Barge, Alaska's premier tug and barge company, is calling for exceptional Able Seamen (AB) to join our growing team.

Why Cook Inlet Tug & Barge?

At Cook Inlet Tug & Barge, we don't just offer a job; we provide the opportunity of a lifetime. Picture yourself as part of a team of maritime professionals, navigating the stunning waters of South Central, and Western Alaska. If you crave adventure, seek flexible seasonal work, and are passionate about what you do, this is the place to be.

What's in it for you?

Adventure Awaits: Experience the thrill of working in a remote environment with a breathtaking backdrop that adds to your life experiences.

Seasonal Perks: Enjoy benefits tailored for your seasonal position, ensuring a fulfilling and rewarding maritime journey.

Roles and Responsibilities

As an Able Seaman (AB) you will 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:

  • Make up all tows and multiple barge tows.
  • Give proper direction and distance signals and information to crew.
  • 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.
  • Ensure the deck is free of all lines and gear.
  • Feed Crew and keep supplies stocked.

Equipment used will include winches, capstan, peavey, pike pole, pumps, and the articulated loader.

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:
  • Valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)/ Able Bodied (AB) Seaman endorsement
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
  • Valid United States Passport. 
  • Must be able to pass a criminal background check with qualifications to enter Canada. 
  • Valid driver's license.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States.

Working conditions:

  • Lodging and provisions on the vessel.
  • Transportation to and from the vessel provided by the company
  • 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 for the full season.
  • Exposure to all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, heat, wind, etc.). 
  • Seasonal position – four to eight months.  
  • As leaders in our industry, we take crew Health and Safety seriously. 

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

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. 

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