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Barge Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Canal Barge Company

Vessel Pilot

Inland, NE · On-site

CANAL BARGE COMPANY VESSEL PILOT Candidates will be considered for wheelhouse positions for both Canal Barge and Marquette Gulf Inland opportunities. *Multiple schedules offered!* Canal Barge is a ...

Canal Barge Company, Inc.

Vessel Pilot

Joliet, IL

... Canal Barge Company and Illinois Marine Towing. 8. Maintaining accurate and timely completion of ... Pilots' work may be performed in rough waters and unstable footing conditions. Other 1. Perform ...

Illinois Marine Towing

Vessel Pilot

Joliet, IL · On-site

... Canal Barge Company and Illinois Marine Towing. 8. Maintaining accurate and timely completion of ... Pilots' work may be performed in rough waters and unstable footing conditions. Other 1. Perform ...

Illinois Marine Towing

Vessel Pilot

Inland, NE · On-site

... Canal Barge Company and Illinois Marine Towing. 8. Maintaining accurate and timely completion of ... Pilots' work may be performed in rough waters and unstable footing conditions. Other 1. Perform ...

American Commercial Barge Line

Trip Pilot

Harahan, LA · On-site

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 ...

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Barge Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do barge pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for barge pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Barge Pilot, you need strong navigation skills, knowledge of maritime regulations, and typically a U.S. Coast Guard license. Familiarity with radar, GPS systems, VHF radios, and electronic charting tools is essential for safe and efficient vessel operation. Excellent situational awareness, clear communication, and decision-making under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are critical to ensuring the safe transport of cargo, compliance with regulations, and effective coordination with crew and port authorities.

What are barge pilots?

Barge pilots are licensed professionals responsible for navigating and operating barges, which are flat-bottomed vessels used primarily to transport goods and materials along rivers, canals, and other inland waterways. They ensure the safe and efficient movement of the barge, manage the crew, and monitor weather and water conditions. Barge pilots must follow strict safety regulations and communicate with other vessels and port authorities. Their expertise is essential for preventing accidents and ensuring the timely delivery of cargo.

What is the difference between Barge Pilot vs Tugboat Captain?

AspectBarge PilotTugboat Captain
CertificationsRequired licenses for operating barges, such as Coast Guard licensesSimilar licenses, often including towing and vessel operation certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates on inland and coastal waterways, guiding bargesOperates tugboats, often assisting ships or barges in ports and waterways
Industry UsageCommonly employed in shipping, oil, and construction industriesUsed in shipping, port operations, and offshore industries

Both Barge Pilots and Tugboat Captains require similar licenses and work in maritime environments. Barge Pilots primarily guide large cargo or oil barges, while Tugboat Captains operate tugboats that assist in maneuvering ships and barges. Their roles are complementary but distinct within maritime operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Barge Pilots when navigating busy waterways?

Barge Pilots often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, strong currents, and heavy traffic from other vessels while navigating busy waterways. They must remain vigilant and adapt quickly to changing situations to ensure the safety of the crew, cargo, and vessel. Effective communication with other crew members and coordination with port authorities are crucial for timely and safe passage. Additionally, Barge Pilots need to stay updated on regulations and local navigational hazards, which can vary by region.
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Barge Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Pilot job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Vessel Pilot

Vessel Pilot

Canal Barge Company

Inland, NE • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

CANAL BARGE COMPANY

JOB DESCRIPTION

VESSEL PILOT

Candidates will be considered for wheelhouse positions for both Canal Barge and Marquette Gulf Inland opportunities.

*Multiple schedules offered!*

Canal Barge is a leading company in the inland marine industry with a history of steady growth and exceptional human & environmental safety record. We believe CBC's Mississippi River transportation system is among the most efficient and most environmentally friendly methods of transporting cargo within the United States. CBC Pilots work on our Fleet of Inland Towing Vessels. Extensive orientation and training is provided; all Pilots must possess a current U.S. Coast Guard license for Master or Pilot of Towing Vessels that is applicable for the vessel, route, and service.

Qualified candidates must be safety conscious and able to work in a physically demanding environment. Pilots are required to work onboard for a multi-week hitch, with travel reimbursement provided. All applicants must have favorable work references and a valid driver's license, and must be able to pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screen.


I. Primary Job Duties

  • Navigate the vessel and tow safely and efficiently while on watch

  • Supervise crew members and ensure that they are properly trained to perform their job duties safely

  • Ensure that all barges are in navigable condition

  • Complete required logs and reports

  • Apply all safety rules and regulations


II. Physical Requirements

Physical requirements include (but not limited to):

  • Repetitive bending, stooping and twisting

  • Climbing ladders and stairs

  • Must be able to push and pull 50lbs

  • Must be able to lift 50lbs

  • Able to board and ride in a skiff


III. Benefits of Joining Canal Barge Company

  • Competitive Health, Disability, Dental, and Life Insurance

  • 401K Savings Plan with company match

  • Crew changes from home to vessel paid for by CBC

Canal Barge Company and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers - All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

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