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Barge Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Canal Barge Company

Barge Readiness Tech

Sulphur, LA · On-site

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

Perform meticulous inspections of tank barges, encompassing: * Examination of all operational equipment aboard the barge * Evaluation of void spaces * Comprehension of barge documentation

Canal Barge Company, Inc.

Barge Readiness Tech

Sulphur, LA · On-site

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

Perform meticulous inspections of tank barges, encompassing: * Examination of all operational equipment aboard the barge * Evaluation of void spaces * Comprehension of barge documentation

Illinois Marine Towing

Liquid Barge Technician

Lemont, IL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

These inspections focus on verifying cleanliness, assessing mechanical functionality, and ... Inspect and verify barge cleanliness prior to leaving the cleaning facility. e. Starting of barge ...

Illinois Marine Towing

Liquid Barge Technician

Lemont, IL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

These inspections focus on verifying cleanliness, assessing mechanical functionality, and ... Inspect and verify barge cleanliness prior to leaving the cleaning facility. e. Starting of barge ...

Broussard Brothers Inc

Barge Crewman

Abbeville, LA · On-site

Inspect & maintain condition of all rigging. * Loading and offloading of equipment & materials to/from barge. * Participate in the BBI Take 5 Program and utilize Stop Work Authority when necessary.

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Barge Inspector information

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$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do barge inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 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 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.

What certifications do you need to work on a barge?

Barge inspectors typically need certifications such as the Marine Transportation Security Act (MTSA) security certification, OSHA safety training, and sometimes specific vessel inspection credentials like the National Vessel Documentation Center (NVDC) certification. Additionally, knowledge of maritime safety standards and experience with inspection tools are important for the role.

What type of inspector gets paid the most?

Among inspection roles, senior or specialized inspectors such as marine or offshore vessel inspectors tend to earn the highest salaries. Barge inspectors with advanced certifications and extensive experience in maritime safety and compliance typically receive higher pay compared to entry-level inspectors. Salary can also vary based on industry demand, location, and the complexity of the inspections performed.

What does a barge inspector do?

A barge inspector evaluates the condition and safety of barges used for transporting goods on waterways. They perform inspections to identify structural issues, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and may use tools like gauges and inspection reports. The role often requires knowledge of maritime safety standards and certifications.

How to become a pressure vessel inspector?

To become a pressure vessel inspector, one typically needs a background in mechanical, chemical, or industrial engineering, along with relevant work experience in inspection or maintenance of pressure vessels. Certification from organizations such as the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors or ASME is often required, and inspectors must stay current with industry standards and safety regulations. Strong attention to detail and knowledge of nondestructive testing methods are also important.

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.
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Barge Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Inspector job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.
Barge Maintenance Manager (ISE Focus - Houston or Southern Louisiana)

Barge Maintenance Manager (ISE Focus - Houston or Southern Louisiana)

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Port Allen, LA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Barge Maintenance Manager
Company: American Commercial Barge Line
Location: Candidate must be located or willing to move to Houston or Port Arthur, TX OR Harahan, Convent, or Baton Rouge, LA
Job Type: Full Time; Salary

Summary:

Take the helm of a high-impact role with ACBL as our Barge Maintenance Manager, where you’ll lead the charge in keeping our fleet operating at peak performance! In this dynamic position, you’ll manage technical maintenance and repair events, ensuring efficient, cost-effective solutions that minimize downtime and maximize reliability. Partnering with internal teams, shipyards, and regulatory authorities, you’ll play a critical role in enhancing vessel performance while reducing repair costs, claims, and cargo losses. If you’re a results-driven leader passionate about safety, compliance, and driving operational excellence, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact on a vital maritime fleet.

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 

  • Develop standards and best practices with cleaning and repair vendors and coordinates with other teams to ensure consistency throughout operations.
  • Schedule, coordinate, and oversee barge repairs for the assigned area.
  • Ensure safe working conditions at maintenance and repair facilities and for personnel operating company equipment.
  • Perform and coordinate barge reliability inspections to ensure safe and efficient equipment operation and verify USCG Tank Barge Streamlined Inspection Program (TBSIP) Guidelines are met.
  • Manage vendor relations and ensure ACBL receives favorable rates and delivery timelines of goods and services to ensure the safe and efficient turnaround of barge inspection and repairs.
  • Serve as emergency point of contact for both scheduled On-Call and On-Demand needs.
  • Manage the hiring, development, and discipline of Team Members.
  • Performs all other duties as assigned.

What we are looking for...

You will need to have:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Proficiency in using MS Office software products
  • A valid driver’s license and TWIC card or have the ability to acquire
  • Ability to travel with minimal notice.
  • Knowledge of tank barge transfer operations and river systems
  • Proven project management skills including tracking costs, scheduling repairs, maintaining records, and preparing/presenting monthly cost report 

Even better if you have:

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Maritime, Business, or a related field
  • 5-8 years of previous management of fleet maintenance or boat/barge design and construction in a marine transportation or shipyard environment
  • Strong industry knowledge and the ability to learn/understand the equipment ACBL operates
  • Working knowledge of USCG, OSHA, and SDS requirements and regulations
  • Proven ability to communicate professionally and effectively

FLSA Status: 

Exempt

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