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Barge Line Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Vessel Cook

Paducah, KY

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

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 ...

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Vessel Cook

Harahan, LA

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

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 ...

American Commercial Barge Line

Welder (Cairo, IL)

Cairo, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

American Commercial Barge Line Location: Cairo, IL Job Type: Full-Time - Hourly Schedule: (8 days on, 4 days off; 8 nights on, 4 days off - 12 hour shifts) Join American Commercial Barge Line as a ...

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Barge Line information

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$10

$19

$44

How much do barge line jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge line in the United States is $19.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do you get paid to drive a barge?

Barge captains and crew members typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the vessel. Pay may also include overtime, benefits, and per diem for long shifts or remote environments. Certifications such as a Coast Guard license can influence salary levels.

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

To thrive as a Barge Line Operator, you need knowledge of maritime operations, navigation procedures, and safety regulations, often supported by relevant certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Familiarity with marine communication systems, GPS navigation equipment, and cargo handling machinery is typically required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail are crucial for ensuring safe and efficient barge operations. These skills are vital for maintaining operational safety, meeting regulatory requirements, and ensuring the timely transport of goods on waterways.

What boat job pays the most?

In the barge industry, captain or master mariner positions typically pay the highest wages due to their responsibility for vessel operation and safety. These roles often require extensive experience, certifications such as a USCG license, and can include long periods at sea or on inland waterways. Salaries for these positions can range from $80,000 to over $150,000 annually depending on experience and vessel size.

What are barge lines?

Barge lines are companies or operators that manage the transportation of cargo via barges along rivers and inland waterways. They play a crucial role in moving bulk goods such as coal, grain, petroleum, and other commodities efficiently and cost-effectively over long distances. Barge lines coordinate the logistics, scheduling, and maintenance of the barges and often work closely with ports, shipping companies, and other transportation providers. This method of transportation is environmentally friendly and can handle large volumes of freight, making it essential for many industries.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working on a barge line, and how can they be addressed?

Working on a barge line often involves dealing with unpredictable weather, tight schedules, and the need for constant communication with team members both on board and on shore. Crew members must be vigilant about safety procedures due to the risks associated with heavy machinery and water transport. Building strong teamwork, staying updated on safety protocols, and maintaining flexibility in your daily routine are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring smooth operations.

How do you get a job on a barge?

To get a job on a barge, candidates typically need a valid maritime or transportation-related certification, such as a Merchant Mariner Credential or a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). Experience in operating or maintaining vessels, physical fitness, and safety training are also important; many positions require passing background checks and drug tests. Applying through maritime companies, crew agencies, or job boards specializing in maritime employment is common.

What is the difference between Barge Line vs Deckhand?

AspectBarge LineDeckhand
CredentialsMaritime licenses, safety certificationsBasic safety training, maritime certifications often required
Work EnvironmentOn barges, waterways, portsOn ships, docks, waterways
Industry UsageFreight transportation via bargesAssist with ship operations, cargo handling
Job RoleOperate and manage barge transportationAssist with navigation, cargo, and maintenance

While both Barge Line workers and Deckhands operate in maritime environments, Barge Line roles focus on managing barge operations and freight transport, requiring specialized licenses. Deckhands assist with ship functions, cargo, and maintenance, often with similar safety certifications. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right maritime position aligned with their skills and certifications.

Can I work on a cargo ship with no experience?

Working on a cargo ship, such as a deckhand or entry-level crew member, typically requires minimal prior experience, but basic safety training and certifications like STCW are often necessary. Employers may provide on-the-job training for new hires, but having some knowledge of safety procedures and physical fitness is beneficial. Advanced roles usually require relevant experience or specialized skills.
More about Barge Line jobs
What states have the most Barge Line jobs? States with the most job openings for Barge Line jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Barge Line jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Barge Line jobs are:
Barge Line jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Line job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 15% Locum Tenens, 10% Internship, 66% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 7% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,066 per year, or $19.7 per hour.
Logistics Coordinator

Logistics Coordinator

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Jeffersonville, IN

$18.75 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Logistics Coordinator
Company: American Commercial Barge Line
Location: Jeffersonville, IN (Onsite)
Job Type: Full Time; Salary

Summary: 

Join the team at American Commercial Barge Line as a Logistics Coordinator, where you'll be at the heart of coordinating barge and fleet boat dispatching for a dynamic river region! In this fast-paced role, you’ll keep our customers informed with real-time updates on barge delivery status, ensuring smooth and efficient operations. You'll also track critical shipping data in a cutting-edge computer system, helping to keep our logistics running seamlessly. If you're ready to take on a pivotal role in the river transport industry, this is the opportunity for you! 

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 

  • Plan and execute barge and boat schedules within assigned river segment.
  • Provide area manager with daily activity forecast and validate current plan.
  • Communicate boat and barge positions, schedules, and other information as required.
  • Update barge release and placement information.
  • Notify customers of pending barge arrivals, projected availability, and barge placements and releases.
  • Assist in planning and coordinating fleet boat and barge movement in a safe manner that maximizes fleet boat utilization and minimizes use of external fleet power. 
  • Maximize cleaning and repair facility utilization and minimize barge idle days and shifting costs at internal fleets.
  • Enter vendor, barge and other traffic data into computer system.
  • Communicate orders to harbor service vendors and coordinate port occurrences.
  • Monitor barge traffic for exceptions and make corrections.
  • Ensure compliance with company policy and government regulations.
  • Performs all other duties as assigned.

What we are looking for... 

You will need to have: 

  • High school Diploma or GED.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities with the ability to make data-driven decisions.
  • Ability to handle stressful situations with composure and professionalism.
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills. 
  • Proficiency in MS Office, logistics management software, and database management.

Even better if you have: 

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain, or a related field.
  • 0-3 Years of logistics experience.

Reasons you will love working at ACBL..

  • Competitive compensation 
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, and dental
  • 401(k) retirement plan with an employer match
  • Opportunities for professional development and career advancement 
  • Employee Assistant and Wellness Programs for your well-being
  • Being part of a supportive, innovative, and forward-thinking team 

FLSA Status: 

Exempt

Apply