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Barge Cook Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

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Barge Cook information

See Missouri salary details

$8

$15

$20

How much do barge cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge cook in Missouri is $15.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $16.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a barge cook?

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 as a barge cook?

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 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 I get a job on a barge cook?

To become a barge cook, you typically need relevant culinary experience, a food safety certification such as ServSafe, and the ability to work in a confined, mobile environment. Applying through maritime staffing agencies or directly to companies operating barges can help you find opportunities in this specialized field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Barge Cook jobs in Missouri?

The most popular types of Barge Cook jobs in Missouri are:

What are popular job titles related to Barge Cook jobs in Missouri?

For Barge Cook jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Barge Cook jobs in Missouri look for?

The top searched job categories for Barge Cook jobs in Missouri are:

Barge Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Cook job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Temporary, and 5% Summer. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,273 per year, or $15 per hour.

Vessel Cook

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 18 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: Vessel Cook
Company: 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 waterways? American Commercial Barge Line is seeking a skilled Vessel Cook to join our maritime team and delight our crew with delicious and nourishing meals.
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 

  • Create diverse and nutritionally balanced menus that cater to various dietary preferences and restrictions.
  • Prepare and cook meals, snacks, and baked goods for the vessel crew, ensuring quality, taste, and presentation.
  • Follow strict food safety and hygiene protocols to ensure the well-being of the crew.
  • Keep the galley clean and organized, maintaining kitchen equipment in good working order.
  • Foster a positive dining experience and accommodate special requests when possible.
  • Work closely with vessel master to ensure vessel budgets are maintained.
  • Travel to the designated port location assigned to a crew location.

 What we are looking for...

You will need to have:

  • ServeSafe Certification.
  • Proven experience as a cook or chef of 3+ years.
  • Must be able to remain on vessel for 28-day rotating assignments.
  • Must be able to obtain required Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card by time of interview.
    Need a TWIC card? Apply here.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • Knowledge of maritime catering and provisioning.
  • Strong culinary skills with the ability to adapt to various cuisines.
  • Understanding of food safety standards and practices.
  • Effective communication and teamwork skills.
  • Flexibility to work in a confined and dynamic environment.
  • Commitment to safety and crew well-being.

Even better if you have:

  • Previous Cooking experience in the maritime industry.
  • Culinary degree or relevant certification.

Reasons you will love working at ACBL …

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Supportive and inclusive crew atmosphere.
  • Opportunity to showcase your culinary skills in a unique environment
  • Access to fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Commitment to safety and quality cuisine.

What American Commercial Barge Line employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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