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Barge Worker Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

ADM

Elevator Worker - Rensselaer, IN

Rensselaer, IN · On-site

$21/hr

Elevator Worker - Rensselaer (Parr), INThis is a full-time, hourly level position.Position Summary ... Barge/Terminal locations)Ability to work near or on water (for Barge/Terminal locations) ADM ...

Archer Daniels Midland

Barge Terminal duties and troubleshooting * Assist with grain handling * General housekeeping ... working in confined spaces and from heights, bending, kneeling, climbing stairs and ladders ...

Archer Daniels Midland

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Barge Terminal duties and troubleshooting * Assist with grain handling * General housekeeping ... working in confined spaces and from heights, bending, kneeling, climbing stairs and ladders ...

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All JobsBarge Worker JobsBarge Worker Jobs in Indiana

Barge Worker information

See Indiana salary details

$29

$32

$35

How much do barge worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge worker in Indiana is $32.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.44 and $34.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a barge worker?

Barge workers are individuals who perform essential tasks on barges, which are flat-bottomed boats used to transport goods and materials on rivers and canals. Their duties can include loading and unloading cargo, securing items, maintaining equipment, and assisting with navigation. Barge workers often work long hours in varying weather conditions and must adhere to safety protocols. The job typically requires physical strength, attention to detail, and teamwork. Many barge workers are employed in industries such as shipping, construction, and oil and gas.

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

To thrive as a Barge Worker, you need physical stamina, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety equipment, deck machinery, and sometimes certifications like a TWIC card or OSHA training are commonly required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe cargo handling, efficient operations, and accident prevention on the water.

What are some typical challenges faced by barge workers during shifts, and how are they addressed?

Barge workers often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, handling heavy equipment, and maintaining safety on sometimes unstable surfaces. To address these issues, crews follow strict safety protocols, receive comprehensive training, and use specialized equipment to minimize risks. Team communication is essential, as barge workers coordinate closely to ensure tasks like loading, unloading, and securing cargo are performed safely and efficiently. Regular safety meetings and ongoing skills development also help workers adapt to changing conditions and responsibilities.

What is the difference between Barge Worker vs Deckhand?

AspectBarge WorkerDeckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, OSHASTCW Basic Safety, OSHA
Work EnvironmentOn barges, waterways, docksOn ships, boats, docks
Job DutiesLoading/unloading, maintenance, safetyCleaning, assisting navigation, maintenance
Industry UsageMaritime, shipping, transportationMaritime, shipping, transportation

Both Barge Workers and Deckhands work in maritime environments, often holding similar certifications like STCW and OSHA. Barge Workers typically focus on loading, unloading, and maintaining barges on waterways, while Deckhands assist with ship operations, navigation, and general maintenance on vessels. Despite differences in specific duties, their roles overlap in safety protocols and maritime industry employment.

How do I get a job on a barge?

To get a job as a barge worker, you typically need a valid maritime or safety certification such as OSHA or STCW, and relevant experience in maritime or industrial environments. Applying through maritime companies, labor unions, or job boards that specialize in industrial or maritime work can help you find opportunities. Physical fitness and the ability to work in challenging conditions are also important.

What are popular job titles related to Barge Worker jobs in IN?

For Barge Worker jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Barge Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Worker job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,268 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Wheelman - Conventional Steering

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Jeffersonville, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

American Commercial Barge Line rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Company: American Commercial Barge Line (ACBL)
Location: Inland River System (vessel-based)
Job Type: Full Time; Vessel Rotation

Schedule: Multiple rotations available, including 28/28, 28/14, 21/21, or 14/14. Wheelmen work 6 hours on / 6 hours off or 12hour watches depending on vessel needs.

Join American Commercial Barge Line as a Wheelman – Conventional Steering and play a vital role in safely navigating our towing vessels throughout the Inland River System. In this handson operational role, you will support the vessel’s safe transit, assist with navigational duties, monitor traffic and river conditions, and help the Captain/Pilot maintain a safe, compliant, and efficient working environment. If you are safetydriven, dedicated, and serious about a maritime career, this role offers excellent longterm opportunities.

When you join ACBL…

American Commercial Barge Line (ACBL) is one of the largest and most diversified marine transportation companies in the U.S. Our legacy of providing the nation with the most economical, safest, and greenest mode of transportation dates back to 1915, when we began moving coal on the Kentucky River.

Whether you’re working aboard our vessels or supporting operations on shore, ACBL is always looking for top talent to join our team.

What you will be doing... Your IMPACT 

  • Operate conventional steering equipment safely and effectively under the direction of the Captain or Pilot.
  • Maintain situational awareness of river conditions, traffic, aids to navigation, and potential hazards.
  • Assist with safe navigation by following established routes, wheel orders, and company procedures.
  • Support crew communication by relaying information between the wheelhouse, deck crew, locks, and shore personnel.
  • Monitor vessel equipment, steering systems, and alarms during watch standing.
  • Assist with barge maneuvers, fleet operations, and tow configuration as needed.
  • Complete accurate log entries, documentation, and radio communications.
  • Comply with company policies, safety practices, and U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
  • Participate in drills, safety meetings, and crew endurance management practices.
  • Performs all other duties as assigned.

What we are looking for...

You will need to have: 

  • Must meet USCG physical examination requirements
  • Must maintain valid USCG licensing appropriate for role
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to/from vessels or training locations
  • Ability to work one of the following schedules: 28/28, 28/14, 21/21, or 14/14
  • Ability to work 6/6 or 12hour watches
  • Prior experience working aboard towing vessels preferred
  • Ability to climb steep stairs, stand or sit for extended periods, and work in all weather conditions
  • Ability to ride in or pilot a crew boat or zodiac to access the vessel
  • Active TWIC required 

Even better if you have:

  • Experience with conventional steering systems on inland towing vessels
  • Experience working on the Inland River System or ICW
  • Strong communication skills and situational awareness
  • Commitment to safe operations and teamwork

        What American Commercial Barge Line employees say

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        Hours and flexibility

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