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Barge Driver Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Eastern Dredging

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Marine Dredge & Barge Operator

Deerfield Beach, FL · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

The operator will pilot and position the barge while safely operating the crane, cutterhead ... Commercial Driver's License (CDL) * Crane-operating experience or relevant certification

Kirby Corporation

Tank Barge PIC - FBG

Miami, FL

The position does not require service as a crew member on any specific barge or vessel ... Valid driver's license and ability to drive company vehicles * Ability to pass certification ...

Kirby Corporation

Tank Barge PIC - FBG

Miami, FL · On-site

The position does not require service as a crew member on any specific barge or vessel ... Valid driver's license and ability to drive company vehicles * Ability to pass certification ...

Underwater Mechanix UMX

Crane Operator

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Operate lattice boom crawler cranes, hydraulic cranes, and/or crane barge-mounted cranes in the ... Valid driver's license; CDL preferred. * Ability to obtain and maintain required security ...

UMX Underwater Mechanics

Crane Operator

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Operate lattice boom crawler cranes, hydraulic cranes, and/or crane barge-mounted cranes in the ... Valid driver's license; CDL preferred. * Ability to obtain and maintain required security ...

Underwater Mechanix UMX

Crane Operator

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Operate lattice boom crawler cranes, hydraulic cranes, and/or crane barge-mounted cranes in the ... Valid driver's license; CDL preferred. * Ability to obtain and maintain required security ...

The Dock Experts

Marine Construction Laborer

Orange Park, FL · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

... barge and land crews: performing work on daily, weekly, and project-based activities for all our ... driver's license - Reliable personal transportation - Conversational in English - Ability to lift ...

Schneider

Pile Driving Foreman

Tampa, FL

Typically, this individual will work closely with the Barge Foremen, General Superintendent, Project (Field) Engineer, Safety Representative, Boat Captain, Pile Drivers, Welders, Carpenters, Laborers ...

Orion Marine Group

Pile Driving Foreman

Tampa, FL · On-site

Typically, this individual will work closely with the Barge Foremen, General Superintendent, Project (Field) Engineer, Safety Representative, Boat Captain, Pile Drivers, Welders, Carpenters, Laborers ...

TAS Concrete

Pile Driving Foreman

Tampa, FL

Typically, this individual will work closely with the Barge Foremen, General Superintendent, Project (Field) Engineer, Safety Representative, Boat Captain, Pile Drivers, Welders, Carpenters, Laborers ...

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Barge Driver information

See Florida salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do barge driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge driver in Florida is $19.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.98 and $20.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a barge driver?

Barge Drivers are professionals responsible for operating and navigating barges—large, flat-bottomed boats used to transport goods and materials on rivers, canals, and other waterways. They ensure safe movement by steering the vessel, following navigational routes, and managing cargo loading and unloading. Barge Drivers must also comply with maritime regulations, conduct routine vessel inspections, and often work as part of a crew. Their role is crucial for industries like construction, agriculture, and shipping that rely on waterborne transport. Training and licensure are typically required to become a Barge Driver.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a barge driver?

To thrive as a Barge Driver, you need strong navigational abilities, knowledge of maritime regulations, and typically a valid commercial boat operator’s license or Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Familiarity with radar, GPS navigation systems, marine radios, and engine controls is essential for safe and efficient vessel operation. Attention to detail, good communication, and quick decision-making are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe transport, preventing accidents, and maintaining smooth operations on the water.

What are some common challenges faced by barge drivers during daily operations?

Barge drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating narrow or congested waterways, dealing with changing weather conditions, and ensuring the safe transport of heavy cargo. Coordination with crew members and communication with port authorities are essential to avoid delays and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Additionally, barge drivers must remain vigilant to prevent accidents and manage unexpected obstacles, such as floating debris or shifting river currents.

What is the difference between Barge Driver vs Tugboat Operator?

AspectBarge DriverTugboat Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), maritime certificationsMaritime licenses, STCW certifications
Work EnvironmentRivers, canals, inland waterwaysHarbors, coastal areas, open water
Industry UsageFreight transport via bargesAssisting in maneuvering ships and barges

Both Barge Drivers and Tugboat Operators require maritime certifications and often hold similar licenses. Barge Drivers typically operate inland waterways and focus on freight transport, while Tugboat Operators work in harbors and coastal areas, assisting larger vessels. Despite differences in environment, their roles are interconnected in waterway logistics.

How do I get a job on a barge?

To become a barge driver, you typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with a passenger or tank endorsement, along with experience operating large vehicles or boats. Many employers require safety training, knowledge of navigation and cargo handling, and sometimes certifications in maritime safety or first aid. Gaining experience through related transportation or maritime jobs can improve your chances of employment in this field.

How much money do barge drivers make?

Barge drivers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the waterways they operate in. Many positions require a commercial driver's license (CDL) and knowledge of navigation and safety protocols. Overtime and on-call hours can also impact total earnings.

What are popular job titles related to Barge Driver jobs in Florida?

For Barge Driver jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Barge Driver jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Barge Driver jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Barge Driver jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Barge Driver job openings:

Barge Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Driver job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,741 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Marine Dredge & Barge Operator

Eastern Dredging

Deerfield Beach, FL • On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Posted 17 days ago

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Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced, dependable Marine Dredge and Barge Operator to join our team. This is a hands-on position operating a cutterhead-driven vacuum dredge throughout Broward and Palm Beach Counties, with our primary operations based in Deerfield Beach.

The operator will pilot and position the barge while safely operating the crane, cutterhead, hydraulic pump, and related dredging equipment. The ideal candidate has at least two years of marine dredging experience, strong mechanical abilities, and the physical capacity to perform demanding work in an outdoor marine environment.

Responsibilities

  • Pilot, maneuver, position, and secure the dredging barge
  • Operate the cutterhead-driven vacuum dredge
  • Safely operate the barge-mounted crane, cutterhead, hydraulic pump, and associated controls
  • Handle, position, connect, and move dredging hoses and pipelines
  • Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and minor repairs
  • Maintain the Caterpillar engine and hydraulic systems that power the pump, crane, and cutterhead
  • Monitor equipment performance and identify mechanical or hydraulic issues before they cause downtime
  • Assist with mobilization, demobilization, setup, and breakdown of dredging equipment
  • Follow all company, marine, environmental, and jobsite safety requirements
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe barge and work area
  • Communicate effectively with crew members and supervisors

Minimum Qualifications

  • At least two years of experience operating a marine dredge
  • Experience operating or working aboard barges and other marine equipment
  • Ability to safely operate heavy equipment, including cranes and hydraulic machinery
  • Mechanical aptitude and basic troubleshooting ability
  • Physically capable of repeatedly lifting, carrying, and positioning hoses and equipment weighing approximately 45 pounds
  • Comfortable working outdoors in heat, rain, humidity, and marine conditions
  • Able to stand, bend, climb, balance, and perform physical work for extended periods
  • Dependable transportation and consistent attendance
  • Strong awareness of jobsite and marine safety
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a crew

Preferred Qualifications

Preference will be given to candidates with one or more of the following:

  • Additional marine dredging experience
  • Diesel engine, heavy-equipment, or industrial mechanical experience
  • Experience maintaining Caterpillar engines
  • Experience troubleshooting and maintaining hydraulic systems
  • Boat-captain credentials or significant boat-operating experience
  • Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
  • Crane-operating experience or relevant certification
  • Residence in or near Deerfield Beach, Broward County, or Palm Beach County

What We’re Looking For

The right candidate is safety-conscious, mechanically inclined, physically capable, and comfortable taking responsibility for complex marine equipment. Because our dredging system depends on the reliable operation of its engine, hydraulics, pump, crane, and cutterhead, consistent maintenance and attention to detail are essential.

Local applicants are strongly preferred due to the location and nature of our operations.