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Barge Loader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JSW Steel USA

Barge Loader

Baytown, TX · On-site

$19/hr

The Barge Loader is responsible for safely unloading heavy slabs, ranging from 30 to 32 tons. This role also involves but not limited to loading the slabs onto railcars, ensuring proper load balance ...

Ingram Barge Company

Material Handler

Granite City, IL · On-site

$31.20/hr

Operating and maintaining terminal equipment such as conveyors, and door gun, barge loader spout, and hard car probe at all terminal facilities. * Ensuring that cargo is properly secured and ...

Ingram Barge Company

Forklift Operator

Ashland City, TN · On-site

$99/hr

Monitor and communicate barge drafts loader or crane operator. * Perform routine checks on equipment and report any malfunctions or maintenance needs. * Follow safety protocols and ensure compliance ...

Ingram Barge Company

Sr. Crane Operator

Ashland City, TN · On-site

$99/hr

Monitor and communicate barge drafts loader or crane operator. * Perform routine checks on equipment and report any malfunctions or maintenance needs. * Follow safety protocols and ensure compliance ...

Ingram Barge Company

Material Handler

Granite City, IL · On-site

$31.20/hr

Operating and maintaining terminal equipment such as conveyors, and door gun, barge loader spout, and hard car probe at all terminal facilities. * Ensuring that cargo is properly secured and ...

Ingram Barge Company

Forklift Operator

Ashland City, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Monitor and communicate barge drafts loader or crane operator. * Perform routine checks on equipment and report any malfunctions or maintenance needs. * Follow safety protocols and ensure compliance ...

Ingram Barge Company

Forklift Operator

Ashland City, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Monitor and communicate barge drafts loader or crane operator. * Perform routine checks on equipment and report any malfunctions or maintenance needs. * Follow safety protocols and ensure compliance ...

TREO STAFFING LLC

Foreman - Barge Washing

Convent, LA · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Supervises barge cleaning operations. Supervises the safe and efficient operations of the cleaning ... Ability to operate heavy equipment, tractor, bobcat, bull dozier, front-end loader and track crane ...

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Barge Loader information

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How much do barge loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge loader in the United States is $21.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a barge loader?

Barge loaders are workers responsible for safely and efficiently loading cargo, such as bulk materials or goods, onto barges for transportation by water. They operate machinery like conveyors, cranes, or loaders to move materials, ensure proper weight distribution, and secure cargo for transit. Barge loaders also follow safety protocols to prevent spills and accidents, and may be involved in inspecting and maintaining loading equipment. Their role is critical to the smooth operation of shipping and logistics along rivers and ports.

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

To thrive as a Barge Loader, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of cargo handling and safety regulations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with loading equipment, conveyors, forklifts, and sometimes certification in OSHA safety standards is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills help ensure safe and efficient operations. These competencies are crucial for preventing accidents, maintaining workflow efficiency, and ensuring the safe transport of goods.

What are some common challenges faced by barge loaders, and how do teams typically address them?

Barge loaders often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, coordinating with multiple teams (like crane operators and dock supervisors), and ensuring safety while handling heavy machinery and bulk materials. To address these challenges, teams frequently rely on clear communication protocols, regular safety training, and established operating procedures. Many employers also implement shift rotations and teamwork strategies to reduce fatigue and promote a safer, more efficient work environment.

What is the difference between Barge Loader vs Crane Operator?

AspectBarge LoaderCrane Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, training in cargo handlingHigh school diploma, crane operation certification, safety training
Work EnvironmentPorts, docks, barges, waterfrontConstruction sites, ports, industrial facilities
Industry UsageMaritime, shipping, logisticsConstruction, shipping, industrial

Both Barge Loaders and Crane Operators work in port and maritime environments, handling cargo and equipment. Barge Loaders focus on loading and unloading cargo from barges, often using forklifts and conveyor systems, while Crane Operators operate cranes to lift heavy materials. Understanding their roles helps employers and job seekers identify the right skills and certifications needed for each position.

How do I get a job as a barge loader?

To become a barge loader, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant experience in loading or industrial work. Physical strength, attention to safety procedures, and knowledge of operating loading equipment are important; certifications in forklift or crane operation can be advantageous.
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Barge Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Loader job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,390 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Barge Loader

JSW Steel USA

Baytown, TX • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

JSW Steel rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

JSW Steel USA is seeking to hire an experienced Barge Loader to join our team!
The Barge Loader is responsible for safely unloading heavy slabs, ranging from 30 to 32 tons. This role also involves but not limited to loading the slabs onto railcars, ensuring proper load balance, alignment, and adherence to railcar capacity limits. Success in this position requires physical fitness, the ability to work in a variety of weather conditions, and a strong focus on safety.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Safely unload 30 or more tons slabs from barges using an overhead hoist, ensuring load balance and stable.
  • Verify railcar capacity, align slabs for secure placement, and coordinate with the team for efficiency and safety.
  • 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 by wearing PPE/PFDs.
  • Report hazards to supervisors, and participating in daily equipment inspections, ensuring the crane is locked during non-operational hours.

Required Knowledge & Skills:
  • High school Diploma or GED.
  • Active TWIC card is preferred.
  • Prior experience handling heavy materials (30+ tons) using overhead cranes, particularly at seaports, is highly preferred.
  • Familiarity with barge lid handling, railcar loading, and working in various weather conditions is also beneficial.
  • Strong understanding of load balancing and alignment principles.
  • Proficiency in using ladders safely to access confined spaces like barges and railcars.
  • Keen attention to detail when verifying railcar capacity and aligning loads.
  • Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills and communication skills.

JSW Steel USA is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, genetic information or any other legally protected categories. JSW Steel USA is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What JSW Steel employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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About JSW Steel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Coal, metals and minerals mining

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Baytown, TX, US

Year founded

2007

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