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Barge Driver Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Barge Design Solutions

Survey Field Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Barge Design Solutions is seeking an entry - level Survey Field Technician ! In this role, you'll ... Valid driver's license and sufficient driving record * Ability to work varying schedules * Ability ...

Barge Design Solutions

Survey Field Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Barge Design Solutions is seeking a Survey Field Technician ! In this role, you'll support both ... Valid driver's license and sufficient driving record * Ability to work varying schedules * Ability ...

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 ... Must have a valid driver's license. * Knowledge of maritime catering and provisioning. * Strong ...

Ingram Barge Company

Laborer - Truck Driver

Ashland City, TN · On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

Maintain barge equipment * Inspect rigging * Sweep and shovel barges * Operate sweeper * Training on skidsteer * Laborer/Truck Driver: Truck driving, delivering equipment Qualifications Knowledge ...

Ingram Barge Company

Laborer - Truck Driver

Ashland City, TN · On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

Maintain barge equipment * Inspect rigging * Sweep and shovel barges * Operate sweeper * Training on skidsteer * Laborer/Truck Driver: Truck driving, delivering equipment Qualifications Knowledge ...

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

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 ... Must have a valid driver's license. * Knowledge of maritime catering and provisioning. * Strong ...

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$12

$23

$35

How much do barge driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge driver in Tennessee is $23.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $25.29 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 Tennessee?

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

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Barge Driver jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Barge Driver job openings:

Barge Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Driver job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,482 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Lower Miss Pilot/Captain (25+ barge experience)

Memphis, TN • On-site

American Commercial Barge Line LLC
Transportation and Warehousing • 1 - 5K employees

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Great coworkers

Good employer

Respectful managers

Learn more about American Commercial Barge Line LLCexternal

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Lower Miss Pilot/Captain (25+ barge experience)
Company: American Commercial Barge Line
Location: Traveling on waterways
Job Type: Full-Time
Schedule: 28 Days Onboard, 28 Days Off OR 14 Days Off
Are you an experienced and dedicated Marine Pilot or Captain ready to lead vessels through the picturesque waterways of the Lower Mississippi? Join American Commercial Barge Line and play a pivotal role in ensuring safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible navigation.
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 

  • Navigate vessels safely and efficiently along the Upper Mississippi, Lower Mississippi, Illinois Rivers, and other tributaries, considering factors such as currents, weather conditions, and river traffic.
  • Supervise and lead the vessel's crew, ensuring a cohesive and safety-conscious team.
  • Ensure vessels adhere to all federal and local maritime regulations and environmental standards.
  • Respond promptly and effectively to navigational challenges and emergencies to protect the vessel, crew, and cargo.
  • Maintain accurate logs and records of each voyage, including navigational charts and incident reports.
  • Carry out all duties assigned under the Vessel Security Plan as the designated vessel security officer.
  • Enforce all Company policies and vessel specific guidelines in support of the Crew Endurance Management System onboard all vessels
  • Report Certain Dangerous Cargoes (CDC) barges at pick-up, drop-off, and designated mile points to the Inland River Vessel Movement Center

 What we are looking for...

You will need to have:

  • Master of Towing Vessels upon Western Rivers license required
  • Must have an Inland Waters or Near Coastal Endorsement
  • Must meet USCG physical examination requirements
  • Must be able to travel to and from vessel / training locations via air or vehicle.
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license.
  • Ability to work 28 days onboard and 28/14 days off schedule with willingness to work overtime as needed.
  • Must be able to work a 6 hours on / 6 hours off watch or 12-hour watches.
  • Must have experience pushing 25+ barges on the Lower Miss.
  • Must be able to ride in or pilot a crew boat or zodiac to get to/from towing vessel.
  • Must be able to work in all weather conditions.
  • Must maintain valid USCG licensing.
  • Maintain an active TWIC.

Even better if you have:

  • Must have experience pushing tows of 25+ barges.
  • 4+ years of previous experience.

Reasons you will love working at ACBL …

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Opportunity to lead navigational operations in the heartland of the United States.
  • Collaborative and safety-focused work environment
  • Well-maintained and state-of-the-art vessels
  • Commitment to environmental stewardship
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
  • Employee Assistance Program.

What American Commercial Barge Line employees say

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