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Barge Driver Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

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Lake Country Barge is Lake Country's favorite dock and lift provider! We pride ourselves on our ... A valid driver's license is required to apply.

Be Seen First

Lake Country Barge is Lake Country's favorite dock and lift provider! We pride ourselves on our ... A valid driver's license is required to apply.

Marine Services VLS Marine Services division offers state-of-the-art barge cleaning, repair, and ... Class A Driver will be responsible for hauling Hazardous and Non-Hazardous waste and must be ...

... and barge-mounted systems. The ideal candidate is experienced in diesel engines, hydraulics ... Diesel Mechanic Certification * CDL Class A license or ability to move trucks and trailers

Diesel Mechanic 2

Ellsworth, WI · On-site

$24 - $34/hr

... and barge-mounted systems. The ideal candidate is experienced in diesel engines, hydraulics ... Diesel Mechanic Certification * CDL Class A license or ability to move trucks and trailers

... and barge-mounted systems. The ideal candidate is experienced in diesel engines, hydraulics ... Diesel Mechanic Certification * CDL Class A license or ability to move trucks and trailers

DECKHAND

WI · On-site +1

$28.39 - $33.09/hr

Valid state driver's license required. * Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness ... barge ratchets, wire chokers, cheater bars, shackles, deck winches, and synthetic mooring lines.

New

Barge Driver information

See Wisconsin salary details

$13

$26

$39

How much do barge driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge driver in Wisconsin is $26.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Barge Driver jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Barge Driver job openings:
Infographic showing various Barge Driver job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,028 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Boat Crewmember/Marine Construction

Lake Country Barge

Pewaukee, WI • On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

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Job description

We are currently looking for someone to join our team of amazing crew members! Our captains and crew work all year round! Winter time is spent doing repairs on wood docks and boat lifts and building boat lifts for the next season. Spring, Summer, and Fall are spent on the water installing and repairing boat lifts and piers. Our team has great fun on the water while putting in our customers docks and boat lifts! Days here are never dull! They move quickly and they're FUN! You won't regret working on the beautiful lakes during Summer and heading into Fall.

Pay based on experience, but experience is not necessary!


Lake Country Barge is Lake Country’s favorite dock and lift provider! We pride ourselves on our core values:

1. High Quality Products

2. High Quality Service

3. Open and Effective Communication

4. Honesty and Integrity

5. Customer Satisfaction


We love to work together as a team, grow as a team and truly have fun together as a team! Visit our website www.lakecountrybarge.com or check us out on Facebook to see what we do for our customers and their lake properties.


A valid driver's license is required to apply.