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Barge Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

McAllister Towing

Mate

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

McAllister also provides barge towing services that include both the upper and lower Chesapeake Bay ... Mate: Description/Job Summary: The Mate is responsible for assisting the Master with safe and ...

McAllister Towing

Mate

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

McAllister also provides barge towing services that include both the upper and lower Chesapeake Bay ... Mate: Description/Job Summary: The Mate is responsible for assisting the Master with safe and ...

Fairwater

Third Mate - ATBs

Dania Beach, FL

$22.75 - $25.50/hr

Third Mate - ATBs Schedule : West Coast, Gulf, and East Coast: 28/28. Western Alaska: 45/45 ... PIC Barge (DL) Experience * Familiarity with ATB or conventional tug barge * Familiarity with Multi ...

Centerline Logistics Corporation

Mate

Bayonne, NJ · On-site

Acts as second in command of the tug and barge. Must be able to understand and carry out the orders ... Mate of Towing Endorsement Near Coastal. * Radar observer endorsement and Coast Guard approved ...

Centerline Logistics Corporation

Mate

Bayonne, NJ · On-site

Overview Acts as second in command of the tug and barge. Must be able to understand and carry out ... Mate of Towing Endorsement Near Coastal. * Radar observer endorsement and Coast Guard approved ...

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Barge Mate information

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How much do barge mate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge mate in the United States is $22.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Barge Mate vs Deckhand?

AspectBarge MateDeckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Marine Deck License (if required)STCW Basic Safety, Marine Deck License (if required)
Work EnvironmentSupervises deck crew, oversees barge operations, safety managementPerforms general deck duties, maintenance, and assist in navigation
Employer & Industry UsageMaritime shipping, barge companies, inland waterwaysMaritime industry, shipping companies, inland waterways

The Barge Mate and Deckhand roles both require safety certifications and work in maritime environments. The Barge Mate typically supervises deck crew and oversees barge operations, while the Deckhand performs hands-on maintenance and assists with navigation. Both positions are essential in inland and maritime shipping industries, with the Barge Mate holding more supervisory responsibilities.

What are Barge Mates?

Barge Mates are licensed maritime professionals who assist in the operation and management of barges, particularly on rivers, canals, and other inland waterways. They typically serve as second-in-command to the captain or barge master, overseeing deck crew, cargo operations, and safety procedures. Barge Mates are responsible for ensuring compliance with maritime regulations, supervising the loading and unloading of cargo, and helping to navigate the vessel. Their role is essential for the safe and efficient transport of goods by water. To become a Barge Mate, one usually needs maritime training and relevant certifications.

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

To thrive as a Barge Mate, you need strong knowledge of navigation, vessel operations, safety regulations, and typically a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with appropriate endorsements. Familiarity with navigation systems, radar, communication equipment, and safety management systems is also essential. Leadership, teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating crew and ensuring safe operations. These skills and qualifications are vital for maintaining efficient, safe, and compliant barge operations on inland or coastal waterways.

What are some common challenges a Barge Mate faces in managing crew safety and vessel operations?

Barge Mates are responsible for overseeing the safety and efficiency of cargo operations, which often involves coordinating a diverse crew and maintaining compliance with maritime regulations. One common challenge is ensuring that all safety protocols are strictly followed, especially during hazardous weather or when handling dangerous cargo. Additionally, Barge Mates must quickly address any mechanical or operational issues that arise to prevent delays and potential hazards. Effective communication and leadership are essential for managing these challenges and ensuring smooth vessel operations.
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Barge Mate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Mate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,291 per year, or $22.3 per hour.
Deckhand/ Tank Barge PIC- Florida Bunkering

Deckhand/ Tank Barge PIC- Florida Bunkering

Kirby Corporation

Channelview, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

The Primary function of the Tank Barge PIC is to prepare the barges that are assigned to their boat for safe and complete loading and discharging of oil, refined and petrochemical cargoes.

Tank Barge PIC normally work a 12-hour day schedule (some watch-standing may be required), are occasionally required to work additional hours, but not to exceed 15 consecutive hours without rest. The schedule is equal time; 14 days on, 14 days off.  During the 14 days on the Tank Barge PIC will live and work on the vessel.


  • Make certain that any and all federal and state required documents that must accompany the barges are onboard and in proper order.
  • Communicate with dock personnel and insure that each person participating in the transfer of product understands what the product is and how it should be transferred and/or protected.
  • Participate in the maintenance of the boat and barges; assist with the training of newly hired employees aspiring to become Tankerman.
  • Handle lines and rigging during tow building, locking/docking activities.

WORK CONDITIONS

  • Must be able live and work in close quarters and able to spend a length of time away from family.
  • Work schedule and hours determined by boat.  Typical work schedule is 14 on, 14 off
  • Must be able to work in inclement weather outdoor, heat and cold.
  • Must be willing and able to attend paid required training on and off scheduled work time.
  • Must have reliable transportation and be able to drive to/from company defined hub cities.

EDUCATION

  • High School or GED preferred

QUALIFICATIONS, COMPETENCIES AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

  • Florida residents required
  • Must possess a valid Merchant Mariner’s Credential (MMC) with a Tank Barge PIC (Person-In-Charge)
  • AB endorsement preferred, not required
  • Must be able to complete a USCG physical and satisfy all United States Coast Guard Chemical Drug Testing Programs for Vessel Personnel as found in 46 CFR Part 16
  • Must be able to satisfy all United States Coast Guard physical requirements (CG-719K) and as found in 46 CFR Part 10
  • Must hold a valid USCG Medical Certificate
  • Must posess a valid TWIC
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license
  • Must present a valid social security card
  • Must not have a DWI or DUI in the last three years
  • Must not have more than 2 moving violations in the last 3 years
  • Cannot have any criminal charges pending, or be on probation
  • Must be 18 years of age
  • Must be a U. S. Citizen or provide proof of eligibility to work in the US.
  • Must be able to meet standards of Criteria Skill Assessment (online)
  • Must be able to read and write English
  • Ability to understand written and verbal orders

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Walk – Must be able to walk 2-3 miles per day
  • Step - Must be able to step 2ft vertical and 2ft horizontal
  • Reach - Must be able to extend arms fully throughout a normal range of motion both in a horizontal and vertical plane (i.e., throwing and catching lines)
  • Climb - Must be able to climb a 90 degree vertical ladder 25-30 feet, and carry weight while climbing
  • Grip/Hold/Pull – Must be able to grip, hold and pull 50lbs
  • Lift – Must be able to lift 75lbs.
  • Lift & Carry - Must be able to lift and carry 50 lbs for approximately 350 feet
  • Vision - Color vision and eyesight must be sufficient to pass an eye test as required to obtain a merchant mariners credential. This requires an uncorrected vision of at least 20/200 in each eye corrected to 20/40 in each eye
  • Hearing – Must meet minimum standards, as per USCG requirements
  • Speech - Must be able to verbally communicate in the English language both in delivery and ability to be understood using handheld radios or other devices, as required
  • Smell – Must possess a sense of smell to be able to detect the presence of potentially dangerous vapors
  • Pulmonary Functions - Must pass a pulmonary function test with a minimum score of 75%
  • General - Must be able to enter and exit hatches/doorways quickly in case of emergency.
  • Equipment - Must be able to wear  PVC foul weather gear, personal flotation device, rubber gloves and boots. 
  • Ability to use firefighting / spill containment equipment

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