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Barge Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Ingram Barge

Forklift Operator

Ashland City, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Monitor and communicate with barge drafter or crane operator. * Monitor and communicate barge drafts loader or crane operator. * Perform routine checks on equipment and report any malfunctions or ...

Barge Design Solutions

Aviation Planner

Nashville, TN · On-site

Barge Design Solutions is seeking a motivated and forward-thinking Aviation Planner to support our growing aviation practice, reporting to our Nashville office. In this role, you will play a key part ...

Barge Design Solutions

Traffic Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$84K - $114K/yr

Barge Design Solutions, Inc. is seeking a motivated Traffic Project Engineer to join our growing team in Nashville, TN. In this role, you will take an active part in delivering meaningful ...

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Barge information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do barge jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge in Tennessee is $16.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $18.56 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.
More about Barge jobs

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

The most popular types of Barge jobs in Tennessee are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Barge jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Barge job openings:

Barge jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,576 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Lower Miss Pilot/Captain (25+ barge experience)

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Memphis, TN • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 5 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

Job Title: Lower Miss Pilot/Captain (25+ barge experience)
Company: American Commercial Barge Line
Location: Traveling on waterways
Job Type: Full-Time
Schedule: 28 Days Onboard, 28 Days Off OR 14 Days Off
Are you an experienced and dedicated Marine Pilot or Captain ready to lead vessels through the picturesque waterways of the Lower Mississippi? Join American Commercial Barge Line and play a pivotal role in ensuring safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible navigation.
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 all the way back to 1915, when we began moving coal on the Kentucky River.  We offer a wide range of career paths in both operations and support services. Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the best of the best to join our ACBL team. 
What you will be doing... Your IMPACT 

  • Navigate vessels safely and efficiently along the Upper Mississippi, Lower Mississippi, Illinois Rivers, and other tributaries, considering factors such as currents, weather conditions, and river traffic.
  • Supervise and lead the vessel's crew, ensuring a cohesive and safety-conscious team.
  • Ensure vessels adhere to all federal and local maritime regulations and environmental standards.
  • Respond promptly and effectively to navigational challenges and emergencies to protect the vessel, crew, and cargo.
  • Maintain accurate logs and records of each voyage, including navigational charts and incident reports.
  • Carry out all duties assigned under the Vessel Security Plan as the designated vessel security officer.
  • Enforce all Company policies and vessel specific guidelines in support of the Crew Endurance Management System onboard all vessels
  • Report Certain Dangerous Cargoes (CDC) barges at pick-up, drop-off, and designated mile points to the Inland River Vessel Movement Center

 What we are looking for...

You will need to have:

  • Master of Towing Vessels upon Western Rivers license required
  • Must have an Inland Waters or Near Coastal Endorsement
  • Must meet USCG physical examination requirements
  • Must be able to travel to and from vessel / training locations via air or vehicle.
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license.
  • Ability to work 28 days onboard and 28/14 days off schedule with willingness to work overtime as needed.
  • Must be able to work a 6 hours on / 6 hours off watch or 12-hour watches.
  • Must have experience pushing 25+ barges on the Lower Miss.
  • Must be able to ride in or pilot a crew boat or zodiac to get to/from towing vessel.
  • Must be able to work in all weather conditions.
  • Must maintain valid USCG licensing.
  • Maintain an active TWIC.

Even better if you have:

  • Must have experience pushing tows of 25+ barges.
  • 4+ years of previous experience.

Reasons you will love working at ACBL …

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Opportunity to lead navigational operations in the heartland of the United States.
  • Collaborative and safety-focused work environment
  • Well-maintained and state-of-the-art vessels
  • Commitment to environmental stewardship
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
  • Employee Assistance Program.

What American Commercial Barge Line employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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