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Barge Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Ingram Barge

Crane Operator

Ashland City, TN · On-site

Company Description Ingram Marine Group encompasses our operating units involved in transporting bulk commodities on America's inland waterways, delivering fuel and supplies to the towing industry ...

Svitzer

Waste Barge Deckhand Location: Tees Port Rotation: 7 days on / 7 days off (0700-1900) At Svitzer ... Operating in 141 ports and 40 terminals across 37 countries, with a fleet of 450+ vessels and over ...

ACBL Branding

Vessel Chief Engineer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$90 - $150/hr

American Commercial Barge Line Location: Memphis, TN; St Louis, MO; Cairo, IL; Paducah, KY; Harahan ... Proficiency in operating and maintaining vessel propulsion systems, including diesel engines and ...

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Barge Operator information

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How much do barge operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge operator in Tennessee is $18.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $20.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a barge operator?

A Barge Operator is responsible for navigating and managing barges used to transport cargo on waterways. They ensure safe and efficient operations by steering the vessel, monitoring equipment, and coordinating loading and unloading procedures. Operators must comply with maritime regulations, perform routine maintenance, and communicate with crew members and other vessels. This role requires strong attention to safety, knowledge of waterway navigation, and the ability to handle mechanical and operational challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a barge operator?

To thrive as a Barge Operator, you need a solid understanding of vessel operations, navigation, and safety procedures, often backed by a valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and relevant experience. Familiarity with towboats, radio communication equipment, and computerized navigation systems is essential for safe and efficient barge movement. Dependability, teamwork, situational awareness, and good communication skills make someone stand out in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety of the crew and cargo, maintaining regulatory compliance, and facilitating smooth operations on the water.

What does a typical work schedule look like for a barge operator?

Barge Operators often work in shifts that can include long hours and extended periods away from home, depending on the type of cargo and route. Schedules typically involve rotating shifts or multi-week assignments on the water, followed by similar periods of rest onshore. You’ll work closely with a crew, including captains, deckhands, and engineers, in all weather conditions to ensure safe and timely transport of goods. The nature of the job requires flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing operational demands, making it important to be prepared for both physical and logistical challenges.

How do I get a job on a barge?

To become a barge operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential or a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). Experience in maritime operations, navigation skills, and safety training are also important; some employers may require on-the-job training or prior experience in related roles.

How much does a barge operator make?

Barge operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the vessels they operate. Many positions require specialized training or certifications and involve working in maritime or inland waterway environments.

What does a barge operator do?

A barge operator is responsible for operating and navigating barges used to transport goods on waterways. They handle steering, docking, and safety procedures, often requiring knowledge of maritime regulations and equipment. The role may involve working long hours and ensuring the secure loading and unloading of cargo.

What are the most commonly searched types of Barge Operator jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Barge Operator jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Barge Operator jobs in Tennessee?

For Barge Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Barge Operator jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Barge Operator jobs in Tennessee are:

Barge Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,398 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Terminal Manager (Lrg Terminal)

Buzzi Unicem USA, Inc.

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 hours ago

Job description

Buzzi Unicem USA is one of the leading cement manufacturing companies in the United States.  With over 1,500 valued employees, Buzzi Unicem USA manufactures and distributes its cement products throughout the Midwest, Southwest, Northeast and Southeast regions of the country.  Globally, Buzzi Unicem SpA operates in 14 countries and employs almost 10,000 people. We are passionate about sustainably producing our cement products for the benefit of society by providing the foundation for crucial infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, tunnels, airports, dams and, residential and industrial buildings. 

Our commitment to positively contributing to society is a core principle for our business, and the reason we focus heavily on sustainable development. As part of our corporate culture, we recognize our role in meeting the current generation’s needs, while preserving environmental quality and protecting the needs of future generations.

Additionally, quality serves as the foundation of the way we do business at Buzzi Unicem USA.  We have established at all our production sites, quality targets for our products that meet not only local regulatory standards but also our customer requirements.

Buzzi Unicem USA strives to provide a corporate culture supporting career growth through strong leadership and development planning.   We offer a competitive salary, along with comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits. Plus, our benefits include flexible spending accounts, supplemental life insurance and other voluntary benefits – such as accident and critical illness. We also provide a 401(k) savings plan, Employee Assistance Program, a tuition reimbursement program, professional development and advancement opportunities.

Join our team, be part of the solution, support evolving innovations, and help us continue providing quality products, all while being supported by strong leadership and a comprehensive and competitive benefits program.


  • Direct all terminal employees on daily jobs and tasks. 
  • Direct and coordinate terminal maintenance operations including some barge and/or railcar maintenance and repair, as well as to manage barge and/or railcar unloading operations.
  • Negotiate with contractors and vendors for the best possible contracts and pricing to be recommended to the Manager of Terminal Operations for review and approval. 
  • Manage all safety procedures and produce and maintain OSHA records. 
  • Manage and supervise contractors for all terminal and barge and/or railcar operations, maintenance and repairs, and to enforce company policies for all areas of the terminal. 
  • Must enforce and abide by Union Contract as applicable and purchase terminal materials and supplies in accordance with company budgets and guidelines.
  • Monitor and report terminal inventory, and conduct, document and record Monthly Safety Meetings.
  • Manage all Environmental regulations and recordkeeping and study innovative and improved methods for all terminal operations. 
  • Responsible to recruit, interview and recommend new hires, evaluate performance of all terminal employees, and train and discipline employees as necessary.

  • High school diploma or equivalent from an accredited institution is required

  • Must have prior barge experience

  • Must have a minimum of 3 to 5 years industrial management experience

  • Industrial mechanical maintenance knowledge

  • Must meet requirements to be fitted for required safety gear
  • Must be able to lift 75 – 100 pounds on a regular and repeated basis
  • Must be able to work at heights up to 150 feet, in both the extreme heat and cold
  • Must be able to work in an environment that can be enclosed, noisy and dusty
  • Must be able to read and comprehend safety and operating instructions

Buzzi Unicem USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Please note that candidates must be eligible to work in the United States and that only qualified candidates will be contacted.

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