ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Barge Driver Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Canal Barge Company

Vessel Pilot

Inland, NE

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

CANAL BARGE COMPANY VESSEL PILOT *Candidates will be considered for wheelhouse positions for both ... All applicants must have favorable work references and a valid driver's license, and must be able ...

Archer Daniels Midland

Deck Handing (for Barge/Terminal locations) * Ability to work near or on water (for Barge/Terminal locations) * Driver's License required for positions in specific regions only ADM requires the ...

Archer Daniels Midland

Elevator Worker - Lincoln, NE

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ability to work near or on water (for Barge/Terminal locations) * Driver's License required for positions in specific regions only ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. REF ...

ADM

Elevator Worker - Lincoln, NE

Lincoln, NE · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ability to work near or on water (for Barge/Terminal locations) * Driver's License required for positions in specific regions only ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. REF ...

ADM

Elevator Worker - Lincoln, NE

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Barge/Terminal locations)* Driver's License required for positions in specific regions onlyADM requires the successful completion of a background check. REF: 108516BR Base pay offered may vary ...

Illinois Marine Towing

Vessel Pilot

Inland, NE

... Canal Barge Company and Illinois Marine Towing. 8. Maintaining accurate and timely completion of ... and Egnyte. 6. Hold a valid Driver's License. 7. Possess a valid Transportation Worker ...

ADM

Elevator Worker - Newman Grove, NE

Newman Grove, NE · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Barge loading (for Barge/Terminal locations) * Driver's License required for positions in specific regions only ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. REF:108753BR Req/Job ID ...

Archer Daniels Midland

NE · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Barge loading (for Barge/Terminal locations) * Driver's License required for positions in specific regions only ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. REF:108753BR About ADM At ...

Illinois Marine Towing

Deckhand

Inland, NE

Hold a valid Driver's License. * High school diploma or equivalent strongly preferred. Canal Barge Company and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers - All qualified applicants will receive ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Omaha, NE · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Barge Drilling * Angle Drilling * Environmental Drilling * Regional Drilling Licensure * Valid Class A or B commercial driver's license. About Us Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

Omaha, NE · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Barge Drilling * Angle Drilling * Environmental Drilling * Regional Drilling Licensure * Valid Class A or B commercial driver's license. * The employee will be expected to perform the following tasks:

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

Omaha, NE · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Barge Drilling * Angle Drilling * Environmental Drilling * Regional Drilling Licensure * Valid Class A or B commercial driver's license. About Us Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Omaha, NE · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Barge Drilling * Angle Drilling * Environmental Drilling * Regional Drilling Licensure * Valid Class A or B commercial driver's license. * The employee will be expected to perform the following tasks:

ADM

Elevator Worker - Newman Grove, NE

Newman Grove, NE · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Barge/Terminal locations)* Driver's License required for positions in specific regions onlyADM requires the successful completion of a background check. REF:108753BR Base pay offered may vary ...

All JobsBarge Driver JobsBarge Driver Jobs in Nebraska

Barge Driver information

See Nebraska salary details

$13

$24

$37

How much do barge driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge driver in Nebraska is $24.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.93 and $26.59 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 Nebraska?

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

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

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

What cities in Nebraska are hiring for Barge Driver jobs?

Cities in Nebraska with the most Barge Driver job openings:

Barge Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Driver job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,980 per year, or $25 per hour.

Vessel Pilot

Canal Barge Company

Inland, NE

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

CANAL BARGE COMPANY

JOB DESCRIPTION

VESSEL PILOT

*Candidates will be considered for wheelhouse positions for both Canal Barge and Marquette Gulf Inland opportunities.*

Preferred application process would be to apply at:

https://jobs.dayforcehcm.com/en-US/marquette/CANDIDATEPORTAL/jobs/607

And selecting: Gulf Inland Division.

*Multiple schedules offered!*

Canal Barge is a leading company in the inland marine industry with a history of steady growth and exceptional human & environmental safety record. We believe CBC's Mississippi River transportation system is among the most efficient and most environmentally friendly methods of transporting cargo within the United States. CBC Pilots work on our Fleet of Inland Towing Vessels. Extensive orientation and training is provided; all Pilots must possess a current U.S. Coast Guard license for Master or Pilot of Towing Vessels that is applicable for the vessel, route, and service.

Qualified candidates must be safety conscious and able to work in a physically demanding environment. Pilots are required to work onboard for a multi-week hitch, with travel reimbursement provided. All applicants must have favorable work references and a valid driver's license, and must be able to pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screen.


I. Primary Job Duties

  • Navigate the vessel and tow safely and efficiently while on watch

  • Supervise crew members and ensure that they are properly trained to perform their job duties safely

  • Ensure that all barges are in navigable condition

  • Complete required logs and reports

  • Apply all safety rules and regulations


II. Physical Requirements

Physical requirements include (but not limited to):

  • Repetitive bending, stooping and twisting

  • Climbing ladders and stairs

  • Must be able to push and pull 50lbs

  • Must be able to lift 50lbs

  • Able to board and ride in a skiff


III. Benefits of Joining Canal Barge Company

  • Competitive Health, Disability, Dental, and Life Insurance

  • 401K Savings Plan with company match

  • Crew changes from home to vessel paid for by CBC

Canal Barge Company and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers - All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Apply