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Barge Loader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$20.46 - $22.89/hr

Communicate well with pilot, deckhands, barge loader on dock, and other vessels in fleet. * Read and understand the deckhand manual, pass test. * Operate Rescue Skiff. Basic Requirements: * Do you ...

Communicate well with pilot, deckhands, barge loader on dock, and other vessels in fleet. * Read and understand the deckhand manual, pass test. * Operate Rescue Skiff. Basic Requirements: * Do you ...

Barge Deckhand McMillen, Inc. is seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Barge Deckhan dto join our ... Secure loads using appropriate rigging methods, ensuring safe and stable transport. * Inspect ...

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Barge Loader information

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How much do barge loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 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 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 a barge loader?

A barge loader is a worker or equipment responsible for loading and unloading cargo onto barges, which are flat-bottomed boats used for transporting goods on waterways. The role often involves operating cranes, conveyors, or other machinery in marine or port environments to handle bulk materials like coal, grain, or minerals efficiently and safely.

How much do barge workers get paid?

Barge loaders typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. Overtime pay and benefits may also be part of compensation, and physical stamina and safety training are important for the role.

What are barge loaders?

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 is the highest paying job on a cargo ship?

On cargo ships, the highest paying roles are typically the chief engineer and captain, who oversee operations and navigation. These positions require extensive experience, certifications, and leadership skills, and they often earn the highest salaries among crew members.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically include specialized roles such as high-level consultants, certain executive positions, or skilled trades like commercial pilots or construction managers. These roles often require extensive experience, certifications, or working in high-demand industries with premium pay rates.

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 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.

More about Barge Loader jobs
Infographic showing various Barge Loader job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,390 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

$60K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Join a leading company in the Maritime Industry in a critical role on our Transportation team!Moran Towing Corporation (www.morantug.com) has an opportunity available for aBarge Supervisor. The Barge Supervisor is a salaried, non-exempt position and reports to the Manager, Dry Bulk Technical Services.

Moran Towing Corporation is one of the oldest companies in America and has prospered by continuously reinventing itself for over 160 years. Starting in 1860 as a tugboat company, we have grown from those roots to become a dominant provider of commercial ship docking services, marine transportation, LNG support operations, environmental recovery, and commercial diving services. While economies, cultures, markets, and technology will always continue to evolve, our steadfast commitment to partnering with our employees and customers to solve our customers' marine requirements has enabled us to stay the course year after year.

Position Summary

The Barge Supervisor is responsible for supervising, coordinating, and assisting with all activities associated with the loading and discharging of Moran Towing Corporation's five ocean-going Dry Bulk Barges and two Inland Dry Bulk Barges. During these activities, the incumbent performs all maintenance and/or repair on Barges and reports progress of all activities to Dry Bulk Carriers personnel.

Specific Responsibilities include, but are not limited, to:

  • Works with a safety-first attitude and is a safety role model for others.
  • Operates in accordance with Moran's Operating Policy and Procedures Manual (OPPM).
  • Develops and executes loading and discharge plans for various dry bulk vessels, keeping in mind vessel safety, limitations of Moran's machinery and the efficiency of the load rotation for the terminals and our customers.
  • Attends the loading and discharge of Moran's ocean dry bulk barges while ensuring that cargo integrity is maintained.
  • Operates, maintains, and troubleshoots all on-board equipment and machinery.
  • Operates Travel Lift Crane, hydraulic winches, and hoists.
  • Cleans and seals the hatches and ensures that the vessel's hatch covers are seaworthy prior to sailing.
  • Works closely with the terminals to arrange shifting schedules and liaises with attending tug to expedite barge shifting in conjunction with terminal requirements.
  • Provides timely updates to Dry Bulk operations personnel on a vessel's progress.
  • Limits the vessel's exposure to damage and delays while in port.
  • Documents and relays a vessel's deficiencies to dry operations personnel.
  • Monitors and reports all regulatory environmental reporting based on requirements by the USCG and EPA.
  • Maintains vessels in an EPA-compliant manner.

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalency.
  • Minimum 2 years of related experience.
  • Demonstrated excellent mechanical ability.
  • Valid Transit Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
  • Valid driver's license and ability to rent a vehicle.
  • Valid U.S. passport.
  • Demonstrated ability to always work safely.
  • Demonstrated initiative, reliability, effective communication skills, and ability to work well independently and with crew and co-workers.
  • Ability and willingness to travel up to 100% of the time.
  • Flexibility to work a non-standard work schedule.

Preferred Qualifications

  • 2-year or 4-year maritime degree.
  • Maritime work experience.

Physical Demands

  • Ability to perform the demanding physical requirements of the job, including the following:
    • The strength to lift, push, and pull required loads up to 50 pounds.
    • Climb ladders and work at elevations.
    • Handle power tools safely and efficiently.
    • Enter designated confined spaces if required.

This job description does not cover or contain a complete list of responsibilities or activities. Responsibilities and activities may change, or other responsibilities and activities may be assigned, at any time with or without notice.

In Return, We Offer:

  • Competitive compensation
  • Career development opportunities
  • Team-oriented work environment
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Health Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Company paid Life, AD&D, and Long-Term Disability Insurance Plans
  • Employee Assistance, Health Advocate, and Wellness Programs
  • Generous 401(k) Plan with employer non-elective, matching, and discretionary contributions
  • Company paid Financial Advice Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Paid Vacation based on years of service

Pay Transparency

Moran Towing Corporation offers generous benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and competitive salaries based on geographic location. Our target pay range for the Barge Supervisor position is $60,000 -$80,000 per year. This pay range represents Moran's commitment to pay transparency and is a reasonable estimate of possible compensation for this role at the time of posting. The final salary for this role will be determined based on careful consideration of a variety of factors, such as the candidate's exact location, experience, and expertise related to the qualifications.

Moran Towing Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, or other legally protected status.