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Barge Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Captain

Portland, OR · On-site

$780 - $875/hr

Responsible for the safe transportation of the assigned barge(s) and for the safety of the cargo, vessel(s), and crew. Required to perform administrative and supervisory functions. * Stands ...

Captain

Portland, OR · On-site

$875/wk

Overview Responsible for the safe transportation of the assigned barge(s) and for the safety of the cargo, vessel(s), and crew. Required to perform administrative and supervisory functions.

Senior Software Engineer, Voice AI

OR · On-site +1

$122K - $161K/yr

Solve voice-specific challenges: turn-taking timing, silence detection thresholds, barge-in recovery, medical term recognition, and end-to-end latency optimization * Integrate voice agents with ...

Lead maintenance operations supporting commercial tug and barge fleet * Stable, well-established maritime company * Mix of hands-on troubleshooting and team leadership * Lead mechanics, vendors ...

Rotate perishable food stocks as fresh stores are stowed. 9. Provide meals and refreshments for barge loaders, including night meals as requested. 10. Assist in performing deck work and line handling ...

Rotate perishable food stocks as fresh stores are stowed. 9. Provide meals and refreshments for barge loaders, including night meals as requested. 10. Assist in performing deck work and line handling ...

Rotate perishable food stocks as fresh stores are stowed. 9. Provide meals and refreshments for barge loaders, including night meals as requested. 10. Assist in performing deck work and line handling ...

... barge-loading personnel with the tug's resources and equipment. 9. Conduct crew safety meetings, emergency drills, and safety management system reviews as outlined in the Management and ...

... barge-loading personnel with the tug's resources and equipment. 9. Conduct crew safety meetings, emergency drills, and safety management system reviews as outlined in the Management and ...

... barge-loading personnel with the tug's resources and equipment. 9. Conduct crew safety meetings, emergency drills, and safety management system reviews as outlined in the Management and ...

Monitors railroad and barge performance, events, tariffs and rail incentive programs. * Communicates with other company departments, vendors and customers. * Other duties assigned. Skills, Knowledge ...

Be familiar with the operation and maintenance of all deck machinery, including the tow winch, and deck barge machinery. 16. Wear personal protective equipment as appropriate to safely complete job ...

Be familiar with the operation and maintenance of all deck machinery, including the tow winch, and deck barge machinery. 16. Wear personal protective equipment as appropriate to safely complete job ...

Be familiar with the operation and maintenance of all deck machinery, including the tow winch, and deck barge machinery. 16. Wear personal protective equipment as appropriate to safely complete job ...

Acquire corridor rights for interconnection, water intake and discharge, heavy haul, barge landing, and rail spur, including USACE, submerged land, highway, and railroad crossing consents. * Secure ...

Barge information

See Oregon salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do barge jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge in Oregon is $18.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $21.59 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 popular job titles related to Barge jobs in Oregon?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Barge jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Barge jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Barge job openings:

Infographic showing various Barge job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,113 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

$780 - $875/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Centerline Logistics rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Responsible for the safe transportation of the assigned barge(s) and for the safety of the cargo, vessel(s), and crew. Required to perform administrative and supervisory functions.


  • Stands wheelhouse watches underway.
  • Direct crew in performance of drills.
  • Determine the need for and assign lookouts as necessary.
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and company policies and regulations.
  • Prepare, monitor, and update vessel work lists and maintenance schedules.
  • Assign work projects for crew.
  • Ensure all crewmen are performing their duties.
  • Purchases food for crew.
  • Prepare material requisitions and monitor usage of supplies.
  • Other duties as assigned.

  • Previous experience as a captain onboard a tug.
  • Must have a valid Coast Guard license with a radar observer endorsement.
  • Must have a valid first aid/CPR certificate.
  • Complete HAZWOPER training within 90 days of hire.
  • Possess a towing endorsement that qualifies you to tow oil barges.
  • Must be able to direct, evaluate, and correct performance of subordinates.
  • Must be capable of training mate and deck hand in the safe performance of their duties.
  • Must be able to fairly evaluate subordinates.
  • Ability to learn and make application of safety awareness, injury prevention, and firefighting.
  • Conduct inspections and monitor tug/barge maintenance activities.
  • Prepare written reports per company and regulatory agency directives.
  • Check and approve all requisitions and work orders.
  • Valid state driver's license.
  • Must be able to read, speak, and understand English over telephone and/or radio.
  • Work aboard boats and barges using pike poles, heavy lines, winches, mechanical tools for repairs.

  • Must be able to work independently and without direct supervision.
  • Exposure to all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, heat, wind, heavy seas, etc.)
  • Must not be afraid of heights.
  • Ability to get along with crew members in confined quarters for prolonged periods of time.
  • Must be able to perform the functions set forth in the attached job analysis and physically fit enough to pull heavy lines/hoses, lift, carry heavy items, climb onto barges and up and down ladders, and bending and twisting during boat/barge tie up.

  • Ability to adapt to a variety of schedules (two weeks on and two weeks off) and hours.
  • Able to work weekends, holidays, and at night.

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), US East Coast (including Puerto Rico), the U.S. 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, as well as operational oversight to the subsidiary companies.

Centerline Logistics offers competitive benefit and compensation packages. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity and Drug Free Work place. Pre-employment drug testing is required.


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