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Barge Mechanic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Regularly inspect all barge operating equipment and perform preventive maintenance as well as ... Minimum 2 years mechanical experience on vessels and barges. Working Conditions: Basic five days a ...

Regularly inspect all barge operating equipment and perform preventive maintenance as well as ... Minimum 2 years mechanical experience on vessels and barges. Working Conditions: Basic five days a ...

Regularly inspect all barge operating equipment and perform preventive maintenance as well as ... Minimum 2 years mechanical experience on vessels and barges. Working Conditions: Basic five days a ...

Regularly inspect all barge operating equipment and perform preventive maintenance as well as ... Minimum 2 years mechanical experience on vessels and barges. Working Conditions: Basic five days a ...

Diesel Mechanic Level II

Saint Rose, LA ยท On-site

$22 - $29/hr

Barge Mechanic Level ll. Rio Marine is expanding in the locations listed below. Rio has a family type of environment where all members work together as a team to assist each other, grow the company ...

Be Seen First

The ideal candidate will possess strong mechanical knowledge, excellent rigging skills, and a proactive safety mindset. As a Barge Operator, you will also contribute to the overall customer ...

Be Seen First

The ideal candidate will possess strong mechanical knowledge, excellent rigging skills, and a proactive safety mindset. As a Barge Operator, you will also contribute to the overall customer ...

Barge Readiness Tech

Gretna, LA ยท On-site

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

CANAL BARGE COMPANY BARGE READINESS TECHNICIAN I. BASIC FUNCTION The Barge Readiness Technician ... Mechanical skills to troubleshoot minor repair components on both Detroit Diesel and Cummins ...

Barge Readiness Tech

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$15 - $20.50/hr

Barge Readiness Technician Channelview, TX Area I) BASIC FUNCTION: The Barge Readiness Technician ... Mechanical skills to troubleshoot minor repair components on both Detroit Diesel and Cummins ...

Barge Readiness Tech

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$15 - $20.50/hr

Barge Readiness Technician Channelview, TX Area I) BASIC FUNCTION: The Barge Readiness Technician ... Mechanical skills to troubleshoot minor repair components on both Detroit Diesel and Cummins ...

Barge Readiness Tech

Gretna, LA ยท On-site

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

CANAL BARGE COMPANY BARGE READINESS TECHNICIAN I. BASIC FUNCTION The Barge Readiness Technician ... Mechanical skills to troubleshoot minor repair components on both Detroit Diesel and Cummins ...

Liquid Barge Technician

Lemont, IL ยท On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

The position demands strong mechanical aptitude, keen attention to detail, and a solid understanding of barge systems and applicable environmental and safety standards. By maintaining high standards ...

Liquid Barge Technician

Lemont, IL ยท On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

The position demands strong mechanical aptitude, keen attention to detail, and a solid understanding of barge systems and applicable environmental and safety standards. By maintaining high standards ...

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Barge Mechanic information

See salary details

$12

$25

$37

How much do barge mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge mechanic in the United States is $25.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by barge mechanics, and how can they be managed on the job?

Barge mechanics often work in physically demanding environments, where exposure to weather, confined spaces, and heavy machinery is common. A key challenge is maintaining and repairing equipment in sometimes remote or floating locations, which requires strong problem-solving skills and adaptability. Effective communication with crew members and strict adherence to safety protocols help ensure smooth operations and reduce risks. Staying up to date on marine engine technology and regulatory requirements also supports success and career growth in this unique field.

What are barge mechanics?

Barge mechanics are skilled professionals responsible for maintaining, repairing, and inspecting the mechanical systems and equipment on barges and other marine vessels. Their work includes troubleshooting engines, pumps, hydraulic systems, and other machinery to ensure safe and efficient vessel operation. Barge mechanics often work in challenging environments and may be required to perform routine maintenance as well as emergency repairs while the vessel is in operation or docked.

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

To thrive as a Barge Mechanic, you need strong mechanical aptitude, knowledge of marine diesel engines, and often a relevant technical certification or apprenticeship. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, hydraulic systems, welding equipment, and maintenance management software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this field. These skills ensure the reliable operation, safety, and efficiency of barge vessels in challenging marine environments.

What is the difference between Barge Mechanic vs Marine Diesel Mechanic?

AspectBarge MechanicMarine Diesel Mechanic
CertificationsTypically requires marine mechanic certifications and relevant licensesRequires marine diesel engine certifications and licenses
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily on barges and inland waterwaysWorks on various ships, boats, and marine vessels
Industry UsageCommonly employed in inland and river transportationEmployed across commercial shipping, fishing, and recreational vessels
Job FocusMaintains and repairs barge engines and mechanical systemsMaintains and repairs marine diesel engines and related systems

Both Barge Mechanics and Marine Diesel Mechanics require marine certifications and work in marine environments. However, Barge Mechanics focus on inland barges used on rivers and lakes, while Marine Diesel Mechanics work on a broader range of vessels, including ships and recreational boats. Their skills overlap in engine repair and maintenance, but their specific work settings and vessel types differ.

More about Barge Mechanic jobs
What cities are hiring for Barge Mechanic jobs? Cities with the most Barge Mechanic job openings:
Infographic showing various Barge Mechanic job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,283 per year, or $25.1 per hour.
Barge Mechanic

Barge Mechanic

Kirby Corporation

Channelview, TX โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Overview
Keep all Kirby Inland Marine barges operational in a safe and cost-effective manner.
Responsibilities
  • Perform routine maintenance on barges. Regularly inspect all barge operating equipment and perform preventive maintenance as well as repair on equipment.
  • Drive Company vehicle to barge location and review open barge work order listing and complete open identified items as necessary. Communicate any problems or remaining open items back to Barge Planner as necessary.
  • Complete inspection and work order reports in order to document findings and completed repairs.

Qualifications
  • Working knowledge of all aspects of barge operating systems and ability to perform preventive maintenance as well as minor repairs to these systems.
  • Good communication skills.
  • Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds; climb aboard and move around vessels; climb 90-degree vertical ladders; bend, crawl, and maneuver around tight spaces.
  • Ability to use and operate normal hand tools as well as certain special repair tools. Must have a valid Texas driver's license.

Education/Experience:
High school diploma or GED preferred.
Minimum 2 years mechanical experience on vessels and barges.
Working Conditions:
Basic five days a week, eight hours a day work schedule with some overtime. Weekend on call rotation in conjunction with port engineer.