1

Barge Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Barge inspections * Special transfer operations * Cargo stripping operations * Internal barge inspections * Barge pressure readings * Inspect drip pans * Inspect void tanks * Inspect tool tightness ...

Barge inspections * Special transfer operations * Cargo stripping operations * Internal barge inspections * Barge pressure readings * Inspect drip pans * Inspect void tanks * Inspect tool tightness ...

Barge inspections * Special transfer operations * Cargo stripping operations * Internal barge inspections * Barge pressure readings * Inspect drip pans * Inspect void tanks * Inspect tool tightness ...

Barge inspections * Special transfer operations * Cargo stripping operations * Internal barge inspections * Barge pressure readings * Inspect drip pans * Inspect void tanks * Inspect tool tightness ...

Barge Readiness Tech

Gretna, LA ยท On-site

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

Inspection of voids * Reading and understanding barge documents * Inspect all other working equipment on the barge * Inspect and verify barge cleanliness prior to leaving the cleaning facility

Barge Readiness Tech

Houston, TX

$15 - $20.50/hr

Inspection of voids Reading and understanding barge documents Inspect all other working equipment on the barge Inspect and verify barge cleanliness prior to leaving the cleaning facility Starting of ...

Barge Readiness Tech

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$15 - $20.50/hr

This position will also be responsible for barge inspections after a barge cleaning operation has occurred. Knowledge of tank barges is preferred but not required. This position's responsibilities ...

Barge Readiness Tech

Gretna, LA ยท On-site

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

Inspection of voids * Reading and understanding barge documents * Inspect all other working equipment on the barge * Inspect and verify barge cleanliness prior to leaving the cleaning facility

Inspect barge ensuring it is cleaned to customer specifications. * Prepare the dock or facility side for loading/discharging liquid petroleum cargoes as per facility loading instructions. This ...

Inspect barge ensuring it is cleaned to customer specifications. * Prepare the dock or facility side for loading/discharging liquid petroleum cargoes as per facility loading instructions. This ...

Inspect barge ensuring it is cleaned to customer specifications. * Prepare the dock or facility side for loading/discharging liquid petroleum cargoes as per facility loading instructions. This ...

Inspect barge ensuring it is cleaned to customer specifications. * Prepare the dock or facility side for loading/discharging liquid petroleum cargoes as per facility loading instructions. This ...

Use ladders safely to access barges and railcars, maintain equipment, and perform regular inspections. * Keep the barge dock and rail loading areas clean and organized. * Adhere to safety protocols ...

Barge Loader

Baytown, TX ยท On-site

$19/hr

Use ladders safely to access barges and railcars, maintain equipment, and perform regular inspections. * Keep the barge dock and rail loading areas clean and organized. * Adhere to safety protocols ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Barge Inspector information

See salary details

$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do barge inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for barge inspector in the United States is $54,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

In the inspection field, specialized inspectors such as marine or industrial inspectors tend to earn higher salaries due to their technical expertise and certifications. Barge inspectors, a subset of marine inspectors, often earn more when they have extensive experience, advanced certifications, and work in high-risk or complex environments. Salary levels are also influenced by industry demand and geographic location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Barge Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Barge Inspector, you need comprehensive knowledge of marine regulations, vessel safety standards, and inspection protocols, usually supported by relevant maritime certifications. Familiarity with inspection tools, digital reporting systems, and safety compliance software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving abilities distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial to ensure that barges meet legal and safety requirements, preventing accidents and maintaining operational efficiency.

What is the difference between Barge Inspector vs Marine Surveyor?

AspectBarge InspectorMarine Surveyor
CertificationsOften requires STCW certifications, safety training, and vessel-specific credentialsRequires certifications like USCG licenses, marine surveying credentials, and sometimes STCW
Work EnvironmentPrimarily on barges, docks, and ports, inspecting vessel condition and safety complianceFieldwork at ports, shipyards, and offshore sites, assessing vessel integrity and compliance
Industry UsageUsed mainly in inland and coastal shipping, oil & gas, and freight industriesApplied across shipping, offshore oil & gas, and maritime industries

While both roles involve vessel inspection and safety compliance, Barge Inspectors focus specifically on barges and inland waterways, whereas Marine Surveyors have a broader scope, inspecting various vessel types across maritime sectors.

How much do barge workers get paid?

Barge inspectors and workers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled workers with specialized knowledge of safety protocols and inspection tools may earn higher wages, often with opportunities for overtime and benefits.

What does a barge inspector do?

A barge inspector examines vessels used for transporting goods on waterways to ensure they meet safety, environmental, and regulatory standards. They inspect structural integrity, safety equipment, and compliance with industry regulations, often using tools like inspection checklists and requiring relevant certifications. Their work helps prevent accidents and maintain operational safety in maritime environments.

What are some common challenges faced by a Barge Inspector during vessel assessments?

Barge Inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, inspecting hard-to-reach areas, and ensuring compliance with complex safety and environmental regulations. They must communicate effectively with crew members and dock personnel to coordinate inspections without disrupting operations. Additionally, Barge Inspectors need to stay current on regulatory changes and use attention to detail to identify potential safety or maintenance issues, which is crucial for preventing costly incidents and ensuring the barge's seaworthiness.

What is the highest paying job in nautical science?

In nautical science, the highest paying roles are often senior maritime executives, ship captains, or specialized engineers, with captains earning the most due to their leadership and responsibility on large vessels. These positions typically require extensive experience, certifications such as a Master Mariner license, and often involve long periods at sea. Salaries can vary based on the vessel type, company, and geographic location but generally exceed other maritime roles.
More about Barge Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Barge Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Barge Inspector job openings:
What states have the most Barge Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Barge Inspector jobs include:
Barge Inspector

Barge Inspector

Kirby Corporation

Channelview, TX โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Overview

This shoreside job primarily involves performing make-ready activities, including barge inspections, special transfer operations, cargo stripping operations, and internal barge inspections. The job does not require service as a crew member for the operation of any specific vessel.

Responsibilities
  • Barge inspections
  • Special transfer operations
  • Cargo stripping operations
  • Internal barge inspections
  • Barge pressure readings
  • Inspect drip pans
  • Inspect void tanks
  • Inspect tool tightness of all fittings, bolts, and dogs on cargo and void tanks
  • Barge endorsements and certificates
  • Housekeeping inspections, including slip-trip hazards and trash
  • Prepare supporting documents including barge inspection forms and stripping logs
  • Notify Make Ready Supervisor & Traffic of discrepancies found during barge inspections
  • Indicate discrepancies found during barge inspections on appropriate forms
  • Security awareness responsibility
  • Barge pump engine repairs
  • Barge topside repairs
  • All other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • Organized, detail-oriented, and multi-tasked oriented.

  • Ability to operate standard office equipment.

  • Self-motivated.

  • Ability to safely perform task wearing required Personal Protective Equipment, including steal toe shoes, hard hat, goggles, ear protection, gloves, and full-face respirator,

  • Active Driver's License.

  • Current Transportation Worker Identification Credential Card.

Competencies:

  • Safety Procedures and Practices: Understanding and implementing safety protocols, including emergency procedures, hazardous material handling, and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
  • Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills: Identifying and resolving issues related to barge safety, equipment, and cargo operations, requiring critical thinking and analytical abilities.
  • Record Keeping and Reporting: Maintaining detailed inspection records, documenting findings, and preparing reports for regulatory compliance.
  • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with inspection tools, equipment, and software used for conducting inspections and recording data.
  • Adaptability and Flexibility: The ability to work in diverse environments, handle unexpected situations, and adapt to changing priorities.
  • Teamwork and Collaboration: Working effectively with other inspectors, vessel personnel, and stakeholders to ensure smooth and safe operations.

Education:

  • High school diploma or GED.

Experience:

  • One year of experience in the marine industry or with similar job functions.

Special Requirements:

  • Ability to work nights, weekends, holidays.

Physical Activities & Requirements:

  • Work Classification: Medium work-lifting no more than 50 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds.

  • Pushing/Pulling: Requires occasional pushing/pulling of equipment or tools (e.g., moving hoses, adjusting fittings) up to 50 pounds, typically 1-2 hours per shift.

  • Standing: 6-8 hours per day during inspections and repairs on barges.

  • Walking: 2-3 hours per day, navigating barge decks and dock areas.

  • Sitting: 1-2 hours per day, primarily during documentation or breaks.

  • Frequent climbing of ladders or stairs to access barge decks (up to 10 times per shift).

  • Occasional crawling or movement through enclosed spaces (e.g., void tanks, cargo compartments) during internal inspections, typically 1-2 hours per shift.

  • Other Physical Demands: Must be capable of occasional heavy lifting or carrying of 50 pounds (e.g., tools, equipment).

Working Conditions:

  • Office Environment: Minimal office work; primarily uses a shared office space at the Channelview facility for documentation (e.g., barge inspection forms, stripping logs), equipped with standard office equipment (computer, printer).

Physical Environment:

  • Primarily outdoors on barges and docks, exposed to weather conditions including temperature extremes (e.g., summer heat up to 100F, winter lows around 30F in Channelview).

  • Works 10 to 12-hour rotating shifts with occasional weekend and on-call responsibilities.

  • Exposure to marine environments, including potential for wet/slippery surfaces, noise from barge operations, and occasional chemical exposure (mitigated by PPE).

Employment Type: FULL_TIME