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Barge Tankerman Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Properly tie off barge tows, raft tows, etc. * Give proper direction and distance signals and ... Drain water out of air tanks every day. Check oil in auxiliary and main engines before starting.

Properly tie off barge tows, raft tows, etc. * Give proper direction and distance signals and ... Drain water out of air tanks every day. Check oil in auxiliary and main engines before starting.

Properly tie off barge tows, raft tows, etc. * Give proper direction and distance signals and ... Drain water out of air tanks every day. Check oil in auxiliary and main engines before starting.

Properly tie off barge tows, raft tows, etc. * Give proper direction and distance signals and ... Drain water out of air tanks every day. Check oil in auxiliary and main engines before starting.

Obtains samples, gauges shore tanks, vessel(s), barge(s), railcar(s), and/or tank truck(s) as specified per job order. Labels sample containers with full and correct identifying data, including ...

Terminal Operator

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

$43 - $47/hr

Receive truck, barge and rail shipments and offload contents into various tanks. * Climb vertical tank to measure tank levels and regulate tank temperature. * Work on pumps and valves and other ...

Terminal Operator

Oakland, CA · On-site

$43 - $47/hr

Receive truck, barge and rail shipments and offload contents into various tanks. * Climb vertical tank to measure tank levels and regulate tank temperature. * Work on pumps and valves and other ...

Terminal Operator

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

$43 - $47/hr

Receive truck, barge and rail shipments and offload contents into various tanks. * Climb vertical tank to measure tank levels and regulate tank temperature. * Work on pumps and valves and other ...

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Barge Tankerman information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$76.5K

How much do barge tankerman jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for barge tankerman in California is $75,498.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $75,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a barge tankerman do?

Barge tankermen work on inland barges to transport liquid cargo up a river or canal. In this role, you work on the barge and help with the transfer of crude oil, gasoline fuel, or liquid natural gas. When transferring the liquids, your job duties may include connecting hoses, aligning valves, carrying equipment off and on to the barge, and documenting the transfer. Other responsibilities of working on the barge include standing watch, communicating with dispatchers and dock crew, and assisting with other operations aboard the barge. A barge tankerman must follow all environmental and safety policies and regulations throughout the trip and is required to wear protective clothing and use fresh air equipment when necessary. A barge tankerman often works on an on-call schedule and may be called to work nights, weekends, and holidays.

What does a barge tankerman do?

A Barge Tankerman is responsible for the safe transfer of liquid cargo, such as oil or chemicals, to and from barges. They ensure all operations comply with safety and environmental regulations, monitor gauges and valves, and handle hoses and pumps during loading and unloading. Tankermen must also inspect equipment, maintain detailed records, and respond to emergencies. They play a critical role in preventing spills and accidents on the water.

What key skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a barge tankerman, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Barge Tankerman, you need a strong understanding of cargo handling, safety procedures, and hazardous materials, typically supported by a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a Tankerman endorsement. Familiarity with tank gauging equipment, transfer pumps, and pollution prevention systems is essential for daily operations. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to follow strict protocols are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital to ensure safe and efficient transfer of liquid cargo, prevent environmental incidents, and maintain compliance with maritime regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by barge tankermen during cargo transfer operations, and how are they typically managed?

Barge Tankermen often encounter challenges such as managing hazardous materials, ensuring precise communication with crew members, and adhering to strict safety and environmental protocols during cargo transfers. Weather conditions and changing tides can also impact operations, requiring Tankermen to remain vigilant and adaptable. To manage these challenges, Tankermen rely on thorough pre-transfer checklists, ongoing safety training, and effective teamwork with vessel and dock personnel to minimize risks and ensure smooth, compliant transfers.

What is the difference between Barge Tankerman vs Tankerman?

AspectBarge TankermanTankerman
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Tankerman PICSTCW Basic Safety, Tankerman PIC
Work EnvironmentOperating on barges, inland or coastal watersOperating on tankers, ships, or barges
Industry UsagePrimarily in inland and coastal barge operationsIn shipping, maritime, and offshore industries

The main difference between a Barge Tankerman and a Tankerman lies in their work environment. Barge Tankermen specialize in operating on barges, often in inland or coastal waters, while Tankermen may work on various vessels including tankers and ships. Both roles require similar certifications and are integral to liquid cargo operations in the maritime industry.

How much does a barge tankerman make?

A barge tankerman typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. The role often requires handling hazardous materials and working long shifts on barges, with pay increasing with seniority and specialized skills.

What are popular job titles related to Barge Tankerman jobs in California?

For Barge Tankerman jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Barge Tankerman jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Barge Tankerman jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Barge Tankerman jobs?

Cities in California with the most Barge Tankerman job openings:

Infographic showing various Barge Tankerman job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,498 per year, or $36.3 per hour.

Tankerman, LMS-SF

Alameda, CA • On-site


Centerline Logistics Corporation
Transportation and Warehousing • 201 - 500 employees

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Great coworkers

Good employer

Respectful managers


$44.81/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Responsible for the safe and efficient transfer of petroleum products between barges, ships, and facilities including completion of bills of lading and gauge reports.


  • Monitor product level in tanks, operate diesel engines, operate cargo pumps, operate tank/pipeline valves and operate manual and hydraulic booms.
  • Load 55 gallon drums.
  • Adjust and secure barge lines.
  • Communicate with foreign crews and oil facility personnel.
  • Complete loading and discharge gauge reports.
  • Inspect vessel for Coast Guard and state regulatory compliance.
  • Use of Air purifying respirator, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), air monitoring equipment, hearing protection, VHF radio, hand tools, tow lines, high level alarms and thermometer.
  • Operate diesel engines, cargo pumps, hydraulic booms, cargo gear, gate valves, and butterfly valves.
  • Check oil and water in any equipment on board before putting in use.
  • General barge maintenance and cleanliness.
  • Hydrostatic testing of cargo hoses and piping.
  • Change engine oil and filters.
  • Splice barge lines and boom running gear.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

  • Previous experience as a tank barge PIC on oil barges required. Must have a valid PIC Endorsement and USCG MMC and at least 5 years of tanking experience.
  • Valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential with Tankerman PIC endorsement.
  • Valid CPR/First Aid/AED training and certificate.
  • Valid HAZWOPER 24 Hour training and current certificate.
  • Valid state driver’s license.
  • Knowledge of Coast Guard and state requirements for transfer operations.
  • Ability to think and respond quickly to emergency situations (oil spills, mechanical failures, etc.).
  • Possess good communication skills by voice and/or visual hand signals.
  • Ability to be self-motivated, work independently and without direct supervision.
  • Knowledge of company safety practices.
  • Ability to maintain professional relations with customers.
  • Knowledge of basic math skills (add, subtract, multiply, and divide).
  • Ability to complete accurate paperwork.
  • Must be able to read, speak, and understand English over telephone and/or radio.

  • Must be able to perform the functions set forth in the attached job analysis and possess the stamina to work long hours.
  • Must have physical ability to maneuver cargo hoses, handle barge lines and board vessels by use of an Accommodation ladder, Jacob’s ladder or tugboat.
  • Exposure to all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, heat, wind, heavy seas, etc.)
  • Must not be afraid of heights.

  • Ability to adapt to a variety of schedules and hours.
  • Able to work weekends, holidays, and at night. Willing to take call outs.

Centerline Logistics is a leading provider of marine transportation services in the United States. Centerline Logistics operates on the United States West Coast (including Alaska and Hawaii), United States East Coast (including Puerto Rico), the United States Gulf Coast and the Mississippi River System. Services provided include the transportation and storage of petroleum products, tanker escort, ship assist, the transportation of general cargo and rescue towing. Centerline Logistics is the parent company of eight businesses specializing in marine services and a bulk liquids terminal business. Centerline Logistics provides accounting, administrative, human resources, safety and environmental services, and other support to the subsidiary companies.

The Company offers Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and AD&D options to our employees and their eligible dependents after meeting Company requirements. 401(k) options, Disability Insurance, sick pay, vacation pay, 10 paid holidays per calendar year (subject to work schedule) and Healthcare and/or Dependent Care FSAs are also available to our employees after meeting Company requirements. All benefits information may be subject to change based on any current or updated benefit plan year changes and/or Collective Bargaining Agreements.

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity and Drug Free Work place. Pre-employment drug testing is required.



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