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Barge Loader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Louis Dreyfus Company

Terminal Operator

Portage, IN

... Lead, Barge Loader operator, Supervisor, and Superintendent. * Must have sufficient ability to be able to perform all barge/deck hand duties in a safe manner and productively in all conditions ...

McMillen, Inc.

Barge Deckhand

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

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 ...

Cargill

Barge Unloader

Guntersville, AL · On-site

$25.88/hr

While working on the barge, the unloader will use a ladder to climb walls that reach a height of ... Load meal, oil and hull products into barges and trucks. Ensure accurate information of scale ...

Cargill

Barge Unloader

Guntersville, AL

$25.88/hr

While working on the barge, the unloader will use a ladder to climb walls that reach a height of ... Load meal, oil and hull products into barges and trucks. Ensure accurate information of scale ...

Foss Maritime

Barge Utility - Red Dog

Tacoma, WA · On-site

Operate loaders and small backhoe for loading and discharge operations, as required. * Supervise and assist with the loading of ore concentrate onto the hopper deck of the ore barge, as needed.

Cargill

Barge Unloader

Guntersville, AL · On-site

$25.88/hr

While working on the barge, the unloader will use a ladder to climb walls that reach a height of ... Load meal, oil and hull products into barges and trucks. Ensure accurate information of scale ...

Foss Maritime

Barge Utility - Red Dog

Tacoma, WA · On-site

Operate loaders and small backhoe for loading and discharge operations, as required. * Supervise and assist with the loading of ore concentrate onto the hopper deck of the ore barge, as needed.

Lake Country Barge

Be Seen First

Seasonal Warehouse Worker - Lake Country Barge

Pewaukee, WI · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Lake Country Barge is a locally owned pier and boat lift company serving the Lake Country area with ... Help load and unload trucks and trailers using carts, dollies, and other material‐handling ...

Dann Marine Towing

Cement Barge Engineer (CT1801/1802)

$81K - $110K/yr

Cargo Operations • Load/Discharge the barge in accordance with company procedures and stability requirements. • Monitor EMD generators, compressors, pumps, and auxiliary systems throughout ...

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Barge Loader information

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How much do barge loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 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 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 port or dock environments to handle bulk materials like coal, grain, or minerals efficiently and safely.

How much do you get paid to drive a barge?

Barge loaders and operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the vessel. Skilled operators with certifications such as STCW or TWIC may earn higher wages, especially in specialized or high-demand environments.

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 paid job on a ship?

The highest paid jobs on a ship are typically senior officers such as the captain or master, who oversee all operations and safety. These roles require extensive experience, certifications, and leadership skills, and they often earn the highest salaries among crew members. Other high-paying positions include chief engineers and chief mates, depending on the vessel and company.

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
What job categories do people searching Barge Loader jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Barge Loader jobs are:
Barge Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Loader job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% 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.
Pile Barge Superintendent - New Orleans, LA

Pile Barge Superintendent - New Orleans, LA

Bo-Mac Contractors, Ltd

New Orleans, LA

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Bo-Mac Contractors, Ltd. in the New Orleans, LA area is offering a challenging and exciting career opportunity for Pile Barge Superintendents. We are seeking qualified candidates that are focused on project success and exceeding customer expectations. Qualified candidates must be able to perform all duties listed below safely and follow all the company's safety procedures. 

Primary Responsibilities

  • Manage deck operations and oversee crews during pile installation/extraction and during all construction modes of operation. 
  • Serve as a working supervisor on deck with the crew when not performing other duties. 
  • Control all crane lifting operations using hand/radio signals. 
  • Control or designate all mooring operations of the barge for end/beginning of shifts.  
  • Ensure there are adequate, qualified crews to carry out safe and efficient operations  
  • As the Barge Superintendent's representative, supervise the overall safe installation of the project, as specified by the project Installation Procedures  
  • Responsible for refusing unsafe work and for carrying out all work in accordance with established Safety Standards and work practices  
  • Responsible for following the instructions and fulfilling the responsibilities within the Emergency Response procedures and advising crews on their responsibilities  
  • Responsible for the maintenance and repair of all pile driving equipment, crane, and barge. Keep diligent records of maintenance and safety inspections. 
  • In conjunction with crane operator, inspect rigging for deficiencies, identify and replace/repair as needed.  
  • Responsible for the safe loading and unloading of equipment on transport trucks ensuring that no load leaves overweight or over height. 
  • Build jobspecific wood forms and assemble commercially available form systems. Set and tie steel, as required. Erect and wreck all forms.  Pour, grade and finish concrete. 
  • Load and unload materials. Shovel dirt, gravel and asphalt and perform general housekeeping and cleanup of the job site. 
  • Check and maintain grade stakes and other survey markings. 
  • Responsible in providing quality workmanship, efficient productivity, and safe working environment. 
  • Responsible for conducting safety “tool” box meetings weekly as well as specific incident meetings as required. 
  • Reports daily activities, project progress, crew working times etc. to project manager. 
  • Attends Preconstruction/weekly construction meetings as required. 
  • Provides input as too ingress/egress for equipment on new projects. 
  • Keeps an accurate inventory of all tools, repairs and replaces as necessary. 

Minimum Requirements

  • Minimum of 3-5 years or more of Pile Barge Superintendent related experience, with an emphasis in Marine Construction, Pile Driving, Pier Construction, and Marina Installation. 

Bo-Mac Contractors, Ltd.  is an E-Verify employer and all candidates must be willing to submit to any job related background check, medical exam, and drug screen that are required during the hiring process.

Bo-Mac Contractors, Ltd.  is an EEO and Affirmative Action Employer.

Minorities, Women, Disabled, and Veterans are encouraged to apply.

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