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Barge Inspector Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Welder

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

... with barge cleaning as directed * Handle lines and rigging to moor barges to docks and other barges * Visually inspect tanks for excess water * Operate pumps to remove excess water from tanks

Operator - Dakota Bulk

South Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$24.98 - $31.67/hr

Inspect (daily and scheduled), lubricate (grease), check and maintain fluid levels, and clearly ... Ability to work inside a cement product barge * Ability to work in confined space; dusty and dirty ...

Equipment Operator 4

Savage, MN · On-site

$33.48/hr

The role supports barge unloading/loading and materialhandling operations during nightshift hours. Responsibilities * Perform safety and operational inspections on mobile equipment, cleaning systems ...

Equipment Operator 4

Savage, MN · On-site

$33.48/hr

The role supports barge unloading/loading and material-handling operations during night-shift hours. Responsibilities * Perform safety and operational inspections on mobile equipment, cleaning ...

Barge Inspector information

See Minnesota salary details

$24K

$53.8K

$97K

How much do barge inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for barge inspector in Minnesota is $53,808.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,700.00 and $62,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a barge inspector?

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 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 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 to become a barge inspector?

To become a barge inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant experience in maritime or industrial inspection. Certification from agencies such as the U.S. Coast Guard or industry-specific training programs can enhance job prospects, and inspectors often need knowledge of safety standards, inspection tools, and environmental regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Barge Inspector jobs in Minnesota?

For Barge Inspector jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Barge Inspector jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Barge Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Barge Inspector job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,808 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Barge Cleaner - Red Rock Road Location

Upper River Services

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

$21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

BARGE CLEANER (Red Rock Road Location)


FULL BENEFIT PACKAGE AVAILABLE AND AN OPPORTUNITY TO EARN UP TO 10% OF YOUR WAGES WITH OUR YEAR-END BONUS PROGRAM

PLUS

A $2,000.00 HIRING BONUS

MUST BE HIRED BEFORE AUGUST 31 TO BE ELIGIBLE


Starting Pay: $21.00/Hour


Working Schedule and Conditions:

  • Seasonal (early spring - late fall)
  • Eight (8) hour days, Monday - Friday
  • Occasional daily overtime and Saturday work required
  • Occasional Sunday and Holiday work required
  • Must work outside in varying temperatures and weather conditions, and daylight or darkness
  • Duties occasionally performed indoors
  • Working on barge decks, barge covers, and in the cargo hold (hopper)

Essential Functions:

  • Handle and use equipment and tools necessary to clean barges

Additional Functions:

  • Assist welders with various tasks and projects
  • Handle lines and rigging to moor barges to docks and other barges
  • Operate Company vehicles
  • Visually inspect tanks for excess water
  • Operate pumps to remove excess water from tanks
  • Other job duties as assigned

Physical Demands:

  • Climbing ladders and stairs
  • Entering confined spaces
  • Repetitive bending and stooping
  • Lifting equipment ranging from less than ten (10lbs) to weights in excess of one hundred (100 lbs) pounds
  • Walking on steel decks for extended periods of time

Personal Protection Equipment (PPE):

The use of PPE is required. Required PPE is provided by the Company.

Must be able to wear:

  • Personal flotation devices
  • Gloves
  • Steel-toed boots
  • Hard hats
  • Ear and eye protection
  • Weather dictated clothing
  • Equipment designed to prevent inhaling of foreign substances

Upper River Services is an equal opportunity employer and believes in equal opportunity for all employees and applicants. Accordingly, all employment decisions are based on the principles of equal opportunity. These decisions include recruitment, selection, promotion, transfer, discipline, compensation, benefits, training, and other personnel actions involving persons in all job titles and shall occur without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.