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Barge Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Barge Unloader

Guntersville, AL · On-site

$25.88/hr

While working on the barge, the unloader will use a ladder to climb walls that reach a height of approximately 6 feet * Operate computer programs needed to load/unload barges, trucks and skid steer

While working on the barge, the unloader will use a ladder to climb walls that reach a height of approximately 6 feet * Operate computer programs needed to load/unload barges, trucks and skid steer

While working on the barge, the unloader will use a ladder to climb walls that reach a height of approximately 6 feet * Operate computer programs needed to load/unload barges, trucks and skid steer

While working on the barge, the unloader will use a ladder to climb walls that reach a height of approximately 6 feet * Operate computer programs needed to load/unload barges, trucks and skid steer

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Barge information

See Alabama salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do barge jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge in Alabama is $16.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a barge worker do?

Barge workers are professionals who operate, maintain, and manage barges—flat-bottomed boats used to transport goods and materials, typically on rivers and canals. Their duties may include loading and unloading cargo, ensuring safe navigation, performing maintenance, and following safety regulations. Some barge workers also assist with towing operations or work as part of a crew under a captain or pilot. This job requires physical stamina, attention to safety, and sometimes specialized maritime certifications.

What are different types of jobs on a barge?

A barge is a flat-bottomed ship that carries freight and cargo down rivers and canals, and there are a number of jobs on a barge, depending on the size of the vessel. Similar to a barge, a tugboat is flat-bottomed and used to tow other ships. Like any other ship, a barge needs a captain, whose responsibilities are to ensure that the daily operation of the barge goes smoothly, the itinerary is set, and all cargo is stowed properly. Sometimes, a captain also performs the duties of a pilot, while in other cases there is a separate job for a pilot. Other jobs on a barge include mates, engineers, deckhands, oilers, and chefs.

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

To thrive as a Barge Operator, you need knowledge of marine operations, navigation, cargo handling, and relevant licensing such as a Merchant Mariner Credential or state pilot license. Proficiency with navigation systems, radio communication equipment, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are essential soft skills for this position. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient transport of goods and compliance with maritime regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by barge operators and how can they be managed on the job?

Barge operators often encounter challenges such as navigating changing water levels, unpredictable weather, and coordinating with port authorities for docking and loading schedules. Effective communication with crew members and other vessels is essential to maintain safety and efficiency. Staying up-to-date with regulations and maintaining equipment are also key aspects of the role. Building strong teamwork and problem-solving skills helps barge operators handle these challenges and ensure smooth operations.

What is the difference between Barge vs Crane Operator?

AspectBargeCrane Operator
Primary RoleOperates and manages boats used for transporting goods or equipment on waterOperates cranes to lift, move, and position heavy materials
Work EnvironmentWatercraft, ports, and dockyardsConstruction sites, ports, industrial facilities
CertificationsMaritime licenses, STCW certificationsCrane operation certifications, OSHA safety training

While both roles are essential in port and maritime industries, a Barge primarily involves operating watercraft for transportation, whereas a Crane Operator focuses on lifting and moving heavy loads using cranes. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the maritime and construction sectors.

How do you get a job on a barge?

To get a job on a barge, candidates typically need relevant maritime or industrial experience, such as in navigation, engineering, or deckhand roles. Certifications like STCW or OSHA safety training are often required, and job opportunities are usually found through maritime companies, job boards, or industry networks.

How much do you get paid to drive a barge?

Barge captains and crew members typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the vessel. Pay may also include overtime, benefits, and per diem for long shifts or remote environments. Certification and maritime training are often required for higher-paying positions.

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

The most popular types of Barge jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Barge jobs in Alabama?

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

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Barge jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Barge job openings:

Infographic showing various Barge job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,531 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Area Manager, Quality and Barge Loadout

Enviva

Epes, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Enviva rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Purpose

The Quality and Barge Loadout Area Manager is responsible for overseeing plant quality systems, laboratory operations, and port terminal operations to ensure the safe, compliant, and efficient production, storage, and transfer of finished products. This role leads quality assurance and quality control initiatives while also managing terminal operations, maintenance coordination, labor oversight, process improvement efforts, and operational performance metrics.

The position works closely with plant leadership, corporate teams, contractors, and plant personnel to ensure environmental, safety, production, and customer quality standards are consistently achieved.

 

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Lead quality assurance, quality control, laboratory, and port terminal operations to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient production, storage, and transfer activities.
  • Manage laboratory operations, including technician training, certification, sampling, testing, reporting, and QA/QC documentation.
  • Develop, implement, and maintain quality systems, SOPs, process controls, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Monitor and report operational and quality KPIs, analyze trends, conduct root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.
  • Lead tramp metal prevention and management programs, including oversight of magnets, metal detectors, screening systems, inspections, calibration, verification, ownership across all storage/handling areas, require verification of pre and post work controls, and continuous improvements.
  • Serve as the primary contact to lead investigations related to tramp findings, contamination events, product quality deviations, and process risks.
  • Ensure execution of barge inspections, probing, venting, loader blow-downs, and operational checklists to support product quality and safe operations.
  • Coordinate terminal and vessel loading operations, including contractor oversight, product handling, logistics coordination, and operator training.
  • Manage barge drafting activities and train operators to maximize loading efficiency while maintaining safety and quality standards.
  • Maintain FIFO finished goods inventory practices and ensure accurate inventory, barge reporting, loading weights, and shipment documentation.
  • Monitor product temperatures, storage conditions, dust levels, and environmental risks across silos, flat storage, warehouses, and barges by being accountable for accountability for investigation and mitigation of temperature excursions and barge weight/reporting discrepancies.
  • Ensure cleanliness and operational readiness of silos, warehouses, conveyance systems, flat storage areas, and barge loading equipment.
  • Ensure compliance with OEMS standards, environmental permits, safety policies, SOPs, and regulatory requirements.
  • Support preventative maintenance, reliability efforts, budgeting, cost control, and operational efficiency initiatives.
  • Collaborate with plant leadership, port operations, maintenance, engineering, customers, contractors, and regulatory agencies to achieve operational and quality goals.
  • Lead, coach, and develop personnel while promoting a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork, and operational excellence.
  • Maintain end-to-end accountability for finished product quality from plant production through terminal storage and customer shipment from the port.
  • Support special projects and additional operational initiatives as assigned.

 

Leadership & Administrative Responsibilities

  • Lead, coach, and develop plant and port personnel.
  • Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and operational excellence.
  • Effectively communicate with all levels of the organization.
  • Support budgeting, forecasting, and cost control efforts.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

 

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Management, STEM, or an equivalent demonstrated experience of these requirements in past work.
  • Minimum of 5-7 years of management experience in a fast-paced industrial or manufacturing environment.
  • Experience with quality assurance, quality control, and process improvement methodologies.
  • Strong understanding of statistical analysis, root cause analysis, and process control systems.
  • Experience managing operations, maintenance, labor, and production activities.
  • Experience in manufacturing, bulk materials handling, marine terminal operations, or similar industries preferred.
  • Strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills preferred.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel and data analysis tools.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to analyze operational and financial data and develop actionable recommendations.
  • Ability to work independently and lead teams in a 24/7 operational environment.
  • Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

 

Working Conditions

  • Must be able to work in outdoor environments and occasionally in temperatures above 100F and below 32F.
  • Willing and able to work in hot, humid, cold, and noisy industrial environments.
  • Must maintain strict adherence to all safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements.

 

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift, walk, climb, stoop, stand, push, and pull for up to 12 hours per day.
  • Ability to work around moving equipment and machinery.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to safely perform essential job functions in accordance with ADA, FMLA, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

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