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

Excavator Operator

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

The Barge Mounted Excavator position is responsible for operating, repairing, and preventive ... Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. Must be available for consistent duty. Must ...

Excavator Operator

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$31.48 - $34.84/hr

The Barge Mounted Excavator position is responsible for operating, repairing, and preventive ... Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. Must be available for consistent duty. Must ...

Excavator Operator

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$31.48 - $34.84/hr

The Barge Mounted Excavator position is responsible for operating, repairing, and preventive ... Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.Must be available for consistent duty.Must ...

Excavator Operator

Baton Rouge, LA

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

The Barge Mounted Excavator position is responsible for operating, repairing, and preventive ... Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. Must be available for consistent duty. Must ...

Parker Towing Company is one of the largest barge lines in the United States, operating a fleet of ... All applicants need to have favorable work references, valid driver's license, must pass a drug ...

Parker Towing Company is one of the largest barge lines in the United States, operating a fleet of ... All applicants need to have favorable work references, valid driver's license, must pass a drug ...

Vessel Cook

Convent, LA

$15 - $18.75/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 ...

Vessel Cook

Convent, LA

$15 - $18.75/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 ...

... barge or ship to shore tank, barge or ship. Acts in accordance with Client, SGS Operational ... Valid Driver's License (Required) * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC ...

Gauges barge and retrieves sample of product from vessel * Completes any other duties that may be ... Driver's License and / or a valid TWIC card, depending on work location • 18 years or older and ...

Showing results 41-60

Barge Driver information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$13

$25

$37

How much do barge driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 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:

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.

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description:
The Barge Mounted Excavator position is responsible for operating, repairing, and preventive maintenance of the barge mounted excavator. Primary task of operation being but not limited to placement of rock from barges. This position may require operation of other heavy equipment such as front-end loaders, off road dump trucks, bulldozers, and various other types of heavy equipment used in civil engineering. Barge mounted excavator operators primary function is unloading and placing rock in the Inland and Western waterways. Successful candidate must be able to work and communicate well with tender boat crew and line boat crew. This position requires the ability to recognize hazards, communicate such hazards to supervisors, have an understanding of river conditions, the ability to recognize marine rigging and evaluate conditions.
Successful candidate must have the attitude and ability to establish and maintain positive and effective relationships with all crewmembers. This position also requires effective communication skills. The Barge Mounted Excavator Operator along with the assigned SSHO, will participate in Safety Huddles, Safety Meetings and assist in the development of Job Safety Analysis's (JSA'S) to fulfill our goal of "Incident Free Operations".
A minimum of two years' experience with working in a marine environment on the Inland waterways and especially the Mississippi River is beneficial. Position will consist of severe duty marine conditions including inclement weather.
Pay will be commensurate with experience. Competitive benefit package available with employer participation including health, dental, and life insurance as well as 401K retirement savings plan after waiting period.
Successful applicant must complete on-boarding physical and exertion function tests with physical therapist after acceptance of offer to evaluate ability to meet the physical essential functions of the position.
Requirements:
Minimum of three years of heavy (min. 80,000 lb.) equipment operator experience.
Must have the ability and be willing to work outside in extreme weather conditions.
Must have ability and willingness to work 10-12 hours per day.
Flexibility and willingness to work extended duty or "hitch" as work and conditions require.
Ability and willingness to perform manual labor including, ability to climb ladders, stairs, perform repetitive bending and stooping.
Must be comfortable working over and adjacent to water and willingness to participate in water rescue.
Must possess High school diploma or GED.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
Must be available for consistent duty.
Must provide transportation to the assigned job location.
Pine Bluff Sand and Gravel is an Equal Opportunity Employer and takes Affirmative Action for Females/Veterans/Minorities/Disabled. To request reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, contact or call 1-888-870-8296.
Please note: This employment position may be considered a Safety Sensitive Position related to the operation of equipment or working in proximity of operating equipment, working over or adjacent to water, working at a height, or a particular assignment regulated by license, credential, or contract which stipulates the position or work as Safety Sensitive.