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Barge Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Marine Welder

Norfolk, VA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Duties and Responsibilities Weld metal components to fabricate or repair barge structures, equipment, fixtures, railings, ladders, and related shipboard components using arc and gas welding equipment.

Material Handler - Hopewell

Hopewell, VA · On-site

$20.91/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ammonium Sulfate Barge/Vessel loading * Ammonium sulfate cleaning and housekeeping in Marine Operations and related areas * Transfer of raw materials from storage to other operating areas * Operating ...

Marine Welder

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$30.59 - $31.59/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Duties and Responsibilities • Weld metal components to fabricate or repair barge structures, equipment, fixtures, railings, ladders, and related shipboard components using arc and gas welding ...

Material Handler - Hopewell

Dinwiddie, VA · On-site

$20.91/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ammonium Sulfate Barge/Vessel loading * Ammonium sulfate cleaning and housekeeping in Marine Operations and related areas * Transfer of raw materials from storage to other operating areas * Operating ...

Material Handler - Hopewell

Dinwiddie, VA · On-site

$20.91/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ammonium Sulfate Barge/Vessel loading * Ammonium sulfate cleaning and housekeeping in Marine Operations and related areas * Transfer of raw materials from storage to other operating areas * Operating ...

Fleet Manager

Norfolk, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

S. Waterways Transportation, LLC ("USWT") is a Virginia-based maritime management company overseeing the operations of Norfolk Tug Company, James River Barge Line, and Buchanan Marine -- three ...

Operate mobile, crawler, gantry, or barge-mounted cranes as assigned, adjusting technique for shifting loads, tidal conditions, and vessel proximity. * Drive trucks/cranes to and from job sites ...

Boilermaker

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Visits may require standing on a variety of surfaces and at differing angles, bending over, crouching, and climbing up and over obstructions such as scaffolding, ladders, and internal barge and boat ...

LCAC Welding Superintendent

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$37 - $43/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Visits may require standing on a variety of surfaces and at differing angles, bending over, crouching and climbing up and over obstructions such as scaffolding, ladders, and internal barge and boat ...

Administrative Assistant

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Messing & Berthing Barge Experience preferred Minimum of two (2) years of relevant administrative experience required Experience with office and administrative functions in industrial maintenance and ...

Boilermaker

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Visits may require standing on a variety of surfaces and at differing angles, bending over, crouching, and climbing up and over obstructions such as scaffolding, ladders, and internal barge and boat ...

LCAC Welding Superintendent

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$37 - $43/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Visits may require standing on a variety of surfaces and at differing angles, bending over, crouching and climbing up and over obstructions such as scaffolding, ladders, and internal barge and boat ...

Tugboat Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$600 - $675/day

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

About us Robbins Maritime, Inc. is a leading tug and barge company, established in 1986 and headquartered in Norfolk, VA. We specialize in providing reliable and efficient maritime support services ...

Tugboat Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$600 - $675/day

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

About us Robbins Maritime, Inc. is a leading tug and barge company, established in 1986 and headquartered in Norfolk, VA. We specialize in providing reliable and efficient maritime support services ...

Showing results 21-40

Barge information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do barge jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge in Virginia is $17.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.52 and $20.24 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 Virginia?

The most popular types of Barge jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Barge jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Barge job openings:

Infographic showing various Barge job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,676 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

United Support Services, Inc., founded in 2003, is an innovative engineering and technology business headquartered in San Diego, CA. We have an exciting new opportunity and are currently looking for an experienced Marine Welder to provide support to U.S. Navy vessels in theHampton Roads, VA area. This position offers a competitive salary and unique opportunity to perform various shipboard duties.Military Veterans highly encouraged to apply!


Duties and Responsibilities
Weld metal components to fabricate or repair barge structures, equipment, fixtures, railings, ladders, and related shipboard components using arc and gas welding equipment.
Perform gas welding, brazing, and a variety of arc welding processes to complete fabrication and repair assignments.
Perform related tasks including thermal cutting, grinding, brazing, soldering, flame cutting, surface hardening, annealing, and metal spraying.
Repair broken or cracked metal components, fill holes, and increase the size of metal parts as required.
Apply knowledge of welding standards and welding characteristics of metals and alloys including steel, aluminum, nickel, brass, copper, bronze, magnesium, beryllium, and titanium.
Weld metal parts and structures of varying sizes, shapes, and thicknesses, including thin sheet metal and heavy stainless-steel plating requiring multiple welding passes.
Perform complete penetration and fusion welds in difficult-to-access locations.
Devise and utilize special jigs and fixtures to hold parts during welding operations as needed.
Utilize techniques such as preheating, heat sinks, and stress relieving to maintain dimensions and prevent distortion or damage to welded materials.
Operate manual and semi-automatic welding equipment, flame-cutting equipment, brazing and soldering equipment, and welding machines.
Operate metal shaping, straightening, and bending machines.
Utilize hand tools, portable power tools, and manually operated machine tools in support of welding operations.
Perform shaping, bending, fabricating, fitting, and assembly techniques associated with shipboard repair work.
Utilize rigging and hoisting equipment safely and effectively.
Respond to urgent calls outside of regular working hours as required by contract obligations.
Employees are expected to provide their own customary trade hand-tools necessary to perform their job duties, subject to applicable federal, state, and local laws.

  • Employees are expected to perform other duties as assigned, including tasks outside of their primary trade, when required to support operational needs. Such assignments may be temporary or may continue for an extended period of time.


Required Experience:
Minimum of five (5) years of welding experience required.

Messing & Berthing Barge Experience preferred.
Experience with shipboard or industrial welding operations preferred.
Knowledge of welding standards, procedures, and metal fabrication techniques.
Experience using welding, cutting, grinding, and metal shaping equipment.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team with minimal supervision.
Ability to obtain and maintain military base access credentials and security clearance requirements.

Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
Familiarity with rigging and hoisting operations.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, layouts, and technical specifications.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
Knowledge of shipboard safety procedures and confined space operations.


Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Ability to pass a weld certification course.

Must have Security Clearance.

Must have Drivers License.


ADA Notations:

The physical job requirement involves, but is not limited to, walking, reaching, bending-over, concentration in the presence of noise, lifting items up to 50 lbs., and traversing narrow passageways, climbing ladders/stairs, and operating in confined spaces onboard naval vessels, barges, and in buildings.


Benefits:
401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Employee assistance program
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance


Job Type: Full-time, Non-Exempt


United Support Services, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative action employer.