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Barge Master Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Vessel Cook

Vacherie, LA

$15 - $18.75/hr

American Commercial Barge Line Location: Traveling on waterways Job Type: Full-Time Are you a ... Work closely with vessel master to ensure vessel budgets are maintained. * Travel to the designated ...

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Vessel Cook

Convent, LA

$15 - $18.75/hr

American Commercial Barge Line Location: Traveling on waterways Job Type: Full-Time Are you a ... Work closely with vessel master to ensure vessel budgets are maintained. * Travel to the designated ...

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Vessel Cook

Memphis, TN

$15.25 - $19/hr

American Commercial Barge Line Location: Traveling on waterways Job Type: Full-Time Are you a ... Work closely with vessel master to ensure vessel budgets are maintained. * Travel to the designated ...

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Vessel Cook

Cairo, IL

$14 - $17.50/hr

American Commercial Barge Line Location: Traveling on waterways Job Type: Full-Time Are you a ... Work closely with vessel master to ensure vessel budgets are maintained. * Travel to the designated ...

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Barge Master information

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$12

$58

$81

How much do barge master jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge master in the United States is $58.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.52 and $66.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of a barge master?

A barge master is responsible for the safe operation and navigation of a barge, overseeing crew, cargo, and compliance with maritime regulations. They typically hold relevant certifications, such as a master's license, and must have strong knowledge of vessel handling, safety procedures, and environmental standards.

What is the highest paid job on a ship?

The highest paid job on a ship is typically the captain or master, who is responsible for overall vessel operation, safety, and navigation. They often earn the most due to their extensive experience, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, especially on large commercial ships or specialized vessels like oil tankers or cruise ships.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Barge Master position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Barge Master, you need extensive experience in marine operations, navigation, crisis management, and typically hold relevant maritime certifications such as an STCW license. Familiarity with dynamic positioning systems, vessel management software, and compliance with international maritime regulations is essential. Strong leadership, clear communication, and problem-solving skills are vital for managing crews and ensuring safe operations. These abilities are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance during complex offshore operations.

How much does a barge master make?

A barge master typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the vessel. They are responsible for overseeing barge operations, navigation, and safety, often requiring certifications such as STCW and extensive maritime experience.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

A Barge Master typically does not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive roles, specialized engineering positions, or senior management in industries like finance or technology. High-paying maritime roles may include offshore project managers or senior engineers, but these are less common. Achieving a $300,000 salary often requires extensive experience, certifications, and leadership responsibilities.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Barge Master?

A Barge Master is responsible for overseeing all operations on the barge, including supervising the crew, monitoring safety procedures, coordinating logistics, and communicating with both onshore and offshore teams. Daily tasks often involve overseeing cargo loading and unloading, ensuring adherence to safety regulations, conducting inspections, and maintaining accurate operational records. Barge Masters also play a key role in emergency preparedness and may need to make quick decisions during challenging conditions. This role requires strong teamwork, leadership, and attention to detail to ensure both safety and efficient vessel operations.

What does a Barge Master do?

A Barge Master is responsible for overseeing the safe operation and navigation of a barge, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and operational procedures. They manage the crew, coordinate cargo loading and unloading, and monitor weather conditions to ensure safe transport. Additionally, they conduct routine maintenance checks and liaise with port authorities and other vessels for smooth operations. The role requires strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and extensive maritime experience.

More about Barge Master jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Barge Master jobs? The most popular types of Barge Master jobs are:
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Barge Master jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Master job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 28% Internship, 70% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,688 per year, or $58 per hour.
Trip Pilot

Trip Pilot

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Channelview, TX

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Trip Pilot
Company: American Commercial Barge Line
Location: Memphis, TN; St. Louis, MO; Cairo, IL; Convent, LA; Harahan, LA; Channelview, TX; Jeffersonville, IN
Job Type: Full-Time
Are you an experienced and dedicated Trip Pilot looking for an exciting opportunity in the maritime industry? American Commercial Barge Line is seeking skilled individuals to join our team and play a vital role in ensuring the safe and efficient navigation of vessels through challenging waterways.

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 

  • Ensure that work completed during his/her watch is done in accordance with ACBL safety policies and practices.
  • Always navigate the vessel safely.
  • Ensure all crew members on vessel receive instruction on how to do jobs properly and monitor performance.
  • Carry out all duties assigned under the Vessel Security Plan as the designated vessel security officer.
  • Ensure that each crew member knows the cargo of each barge in tow and has an understanding of any hazards associated with said cargoes. CFR 35.05-15b.
  • Enforce all Company policies and vessel specific guidelines in support of the SMS (Safety Management System) and within that the Crew Endurance Management System onboard all vessels.
  • Participate in crew management, general supervisory duties and management of the vessel’s budget.
  • Complete required log entries.
  • Maintain radio watch as required.
  • Report Certain Dangerous Cargoes (CDC) barges at pick-up, drop-off, and designated mile points to the Inland River Vessel Movement Center.
  • Enforce all rules.
  • Give assignments and direction to the mate and/or lead deckhand.
  • Comply with all established vessel management policies and procedures.
  • Maintain the vessel budget and help maximize cost efficiency as directed.
  • Provide instructions and information to crew members, ACBL land-based personnel, USCG or lock personnel.

What we are looking for...

You will need to have:

  • Master of Towing Vessels upon Western Rivers license required.
  • Must have experience running on the Lower Mississippi River 30+ loaded barges.
  • Must meet USCG physical examination requirements.
  • Must be able to travel to and from vessel / training locations via air or car travel.
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license.
  • Must be able to work 6 hours on 6 hours off watch.
  • Must have experience pushing barges (tows of 20 or more preferred).
  • Must be able to ride in or pilot a crew boat or zodiac to get to/from towing vessel.
  • Must be able to work in all weather conditions.
  • Must maintain valid USCG licensing.
  • Be able to maintain an active TWIC.

Even better if you have:

  • Experience pushing 20+ barges.

Reasons you will love working at ACBL …

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • A collaborative and supportive team environment.
  • Comprehensive training and career development opportunities.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Commitment to safety and employee well-being

Apply