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Barge Driver Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Vessel Cook

Convent, LA

$15 - $18.75/hr

  • Retirement

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 ...

loadstarusa

Shoreside Tankerman (River)

Donaldsonville, LA · On-site

$22 - $25.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... off the barge, completing required paperwork, and communicating with dock facility personnel ... Driver's License * Reliable transportation, automotive insurance, and telephone * Ability to work ...

Load Star

Shoreside Tankerman (River)

Donaldsonville, LA · On-site

$22 - $25.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... off the barge, completing required paperwork, and communicating with dock facility personnel ... Driver's License * Reliable transportation, automotive insurance, and telephone * Ability to work ...

Load Star

Shoreside Tankerman (River)

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$19.50 - $22.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... off the barge, completing required paperwork, and communicating with dock facility personnel ... Driver's License * Reliable transportation, automotive insurance, and telephone * Ability to work ...

Kirby Corporation

Utility Operator

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

Barge Stripping Operations * Identify cargo contained in barge set for cleaning. * Determine where ... driver's license and satisfactory driving record. * Make sure equipment is kept clean and ...

Kirby Corporation

Utility Operator

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

Barge Stripping Operations * Identify cargo contained in barge set for cleaning. * Determine where ... driver's license and satisfactory driving record. * Make sure equipment is kept clean and ...

Kirby Corporation

Utility Operator

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

Barge Stripping Operations * Identify cargo contained in barge set for cleaning. * Determine where ... driver's license and satisfactory driving record. * Make sure equipment is kept clean and ...

Kirby Corporation

Utility Operator

Baton Rouge, LA

Barge Stripping Operations * Identify cargo contained in barge set for cleaning. * Determine where ... driver's license and satisfactory driving record. * Make sure equipment is kept clean and ...

Kirby Corporation

Port Engineer

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

... driver's license and a good driving record. * Knowledge and use of computer software. Education: Highschool Diploma or GED / preferred USCG Engineering Credentials. Experience: 2+ years in the barge ...

PBSGC Marine Group

Winchman

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Licenses/CertificationsValid driver's license (required, must be maintained).First Aid/CPR ... Work EnvironmentAssigned a spud barge on Inland and Western waterways (especially the Mississippi ...

Kirby Corporation

Port Engineer

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

... driver's license and a good driving record. * Knowledge and use of computer software. Education: Highschool Diploma or GED / preferred USCG Engineering Credentials. Experience: 2+ years in the barge ...

Kirby Corporation

Port Engineer

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

... driver's license and a good driving record. * Knowledge and use of computer software. Education: Highschool Diploma or GED / preferred USCG Engineering Credentials. Experience: 2+ years in the barge ...

Kirby Corporation

Port Engineer

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

... driver's license and a good driving record. * Knowledge and use of computer software. Education: Highschool Diploma or GED / preferred USCG Engineering Credentials. Experience: 2+ years in the barge ...

Kirby Corporation

Port Engineer

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

... driver's license and a good driving record. * Knowledge and use of computer software. Education: Highschool Diploma or GED / preferred USCG Engineering Credentials. Experience: 2+ years in the barge ...

PBSGC

Winchman

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

Perform routine maintenance, lubrication, and minor repairs on winch and barge equipment ... Valid driver's license (required, must be maintained). * First Aid/CPR certification a plus.

PBSGC Marine Group

Winchman

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

Perform routine maintenance, lubrication, and minor repairs on winch and barge equipment ... Valid driver's license (required, must be maintained). * First Aid/CPR certification a plus.

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsBarge Driver JobsBarge Driver Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

Barge Driver information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$13

$25

$37

How much do barge driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge driver in Baton Rouge, LA is $25.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $26.78 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 Baton Rouge, LA?

For Barge Driver jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Barge Driver jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Barge Driver jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

Barge Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Driver job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,350 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Vessel Cook

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Convent, LA

$15 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 16 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

Pay

Hours and flexibility

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