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Barge Tankerman Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Tank Barge PIC

Baton Rouge, LA ยท On-site

$21.75 - $25.25/hr

The Tank Barge PIC must communicate with dock personnel and ensure that each person participating in the transfer of product understands what the product is, and how it should be transferred and ...

Tank Barge PIC

Baton Rouge, LA

$21.75 - $25.25/hr

The Tank Barge PIC must communicate with dock personnel and ensure that each person participating in the transfer of product understands what the product is, and how it should be transferred and ...

Tank Barge PIC

Baton Rouge, LA

$21.75 - $25.25/hr

The Tank Barge PIC must communicate with dock personnel and ensure that each person participating in the transfer of product understands what the product is, and how it should be transferred and ...

Tank Barge PIC

Baton Rouge, LA ยท On-site

$21.75 - $25.25/hr

The Tank Barge PIC must communicate with dock personnel and ensure that each person participating in the transfer of product understands what the product is, and how it should be transferred and ...

Shoreside Tankerman (River)

Donaldsonville, LA ยท On-site

$22 - $25.75/hr

Tankerman Under U.S. Coast Guard regulations, tankermen serve as the person-in-charge of the vessel ... Disconnect and secures the barge valves and openings to prepare barge for departure Job ...

Shoreside Tankerman (River)

Baton Rouge, LA ยท On-site

$19.50 - $22.75/hr

Tankerman Under U.S. Coast Guard regulations, tankermen serve as the person-in-charge of the vessel ... Disconnect and secures the barge valves and openings to prepare barge for departure Job ...

Barge Cleaner

Sunshine, LA

$13.75 - $16.25/hr

... tank car qualifications, and maintenance. Marine Services VLS Marine Services division offers state-of-the-art barge cleaning, repair, and gas-free facilities for various chemical solvents and ...

Parker Towing Company is one of the largest barge lines in the United States, operating a fleet of towboats and over 400 open and covered hopper barges as well as a growing fleet of 30,000 BBL tank ...

Parker Towing Company is one of the largest barge lines in the United States, operating a fleet of towboats and over 400 open and covered hopper barges as well as a growing fleet of 30,000 BBL tank ...

* Set up,, operated, and disassembled barge-Washing equipment, safely. * Attached hosepipes to barge and hooked it up with crane, properly. * Stripped barge and cleaned it with high-pressure water ...

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Barge Tankerman information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$10.6K

$74.4K

How much do barge tankerman jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for barge tankerman in Baton Rouge, LA is $73,458.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $73,500.00 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.

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 involves handling liquid cargo on barges, often requiring specialized training and safety knowledge.

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.

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Barge Tankerman jobs in Baton Rouge, LA? For Barge Tankerman jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Barge Tankerman jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for? The top searched job categories for Barge Tankerman jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:
What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Barge Tankerman jobs? Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Barge Tankerman job openings:
Infographic showing various Barge Tankerman job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,458 per year, or $35.3 per hour.

Tank Barge PIC

Kirby Corporation

Baton Rouge, LA โ€ข On-site

$21.75 - $25.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

The primary function of a Tank Barge PIC is to prepare the barges that are assigned and complete loading and discharging of oil, refined and petrochemical cargoes. The Tank Barge PIC must communicate with dock personnel and ensure that each person participating in the transfer of product understands what the product is, and how it should be transferred and protected. The Tank Barge PIC normally works a rotating 6 days on, and 3 days off schedule.


Walk 2-3 miles per day. 

  • A Kirby Corporation vessel generally has a tow that is 500 ft. in length. A Tank Barge PIC may be required to walk the tow and back in order to check the condition of the barges and the rigging to perform tankering operations.

Step โ€“ 2ft vertical and 2ft horizontal

  • In the process of loading or discharging two barges breasted up through a crossover hose, occasions arise where slack in one or more lines causes the barges. In addition, if one barge is loading or discharging at a faster rate than the other, a vertical height differential may develop between the decks of the adjoining barges. Also, different docks, owned by individuals other than Kirby Corporation have various combinations of the barge drafts and river stages. This makes it necessary to step across, up, down, or over an obstacle in order to gain access to the dock from the barge to the boat or from the boat to the dock.

Reach:

  • Must be able to extend arms fully, throughout a normal range of motion both in a horizontal and vertical plane. A Tank Barge PIC may be required to throw and catch lines. Complete range of motion is also required to perform engine room maintenance responsibilities, which includes reaching over oneโ€™s head.

Climb:

  • Must be able to climb a 90-degree vertical ladder 25-30 ft. Different docks have various means in which to gain access to the barges that are docked at their facilities. This is especially true when the river is at a low stage.

Lift 60-75 pounds and carry it approximately 500 ft. 

  • A barge ratchet weighs approximately 60 pounds. If the lead coupling on a tow was to break, a Tank Barge PIC may be required to carry a ratchet the length of the barges in order to repair the coupling. In addition, a Tank Barge PIC may need to help move a crossover hose that would require a lift of at least 60-75 pounds.

Vision:

  • Color vision and eyesight sufficient to pass an eye test as required to obtain a merchant mariners document. This requires an uncorrected vision of at least 20/20 in each eye correctable to 20/40 in each eye.

Hearing:

  • Hearing as required to obtain a merchant mariners document.

Speech:

  • Must be able to verbally communicate in the English language both in delivery and ability to be understood. May docks use handheld radios to communicate with the barges and/or boats; therefore, use of these devices is required.

Reading/Writing:

  • Must be able to communicate by reading and writing in the English language.

Smell:

  • A sense of smell sufficient to be able to detect the presence of potentially dangerous chemical vapors.

Pulmonary Function:

  • Must pass a pulmonary function test with a minimum score of 80% with physicianโ€™s approval.

Physical Condition and Ability to Wear:

  • Gloves, goggles, rubber boots, slicker suit, steel-toes boots, hard hat, five-minute escape pack, negative pressure respirator or positive pressure respirator.

General:

  • Must be able to drive to and from hub cities. Must be able to endure harsh environment, which includes extreme temperature, rain, ice, sleet, wind wave action and long hours during transfers.  Ability to use firefighting/spill containment equipment communicates with dock personnel, maintain documentation, and assist in training new personnel. Maintenance functions โ€“ ability to assist with engine and generator room maintenance.  Ability to qualify for all federal and state standards and qualify for licenses and documents.  Ability to perform all duties while wearing protective equipment.

Mental/Emotional:

  • Living and working in close quarters.  Length of time away from family. Ability to communicate in English โ€“ teach, use radio, and coordinate with dock personnel. Ability to understand written and verbal orders. Comprehension of essential information โ€“ spill containment and cleanup, MSDS and emergency action information. Video training widely used โ€“ i.e. safety meeting, Benzene training.

Possible Non-Essential Functions:

  • Swimming, cooking, and washing clothes.

Tank Barge PIC:  A Tank Barge PIC License is REQUIRED.

Tank Barge PIC TRAINEE: No License Required. 

License Requirements:

  • Must possess a valid and current merchant mariners document with a Tank Barge PIC endorsement under 46 CFR 12/20 et seq. and a current and valid driverโ€™s license.

Education Requirements:

  • Must pass a company-approved test. In addition, must have successfully completed Kirby Corporation's training school for Tank Barge PIC.

Benzene Regulations:

Must be able to pass certification requirements of 46 CFR Part 197 Subpart C โ€“ Benzene.

Drug Regulations:

Must be able to satisfy all United States Coast Guard Chemical Drug Testing Programs for Vessel Personnel as found in 46 CFR Part 16.

Physical Examination:

In the event Kirby Corporation extends a conditional offer of employment, the employee will be subject to a physical examination by a physician appointed by Kirby Corporation.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

Necessary to safely undertake the essential functions of this position.