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Cargo Boat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ergon, Inc

Fuel Boat Pilot

East Alton, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Fuel Boat PilotErgon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a Fuel Boat Pilot at its ... Inspect all barges according to the Dry Cargo/Chemical Barge Inspection Report, notify a supervisor ...

Ergon, Inc

Fuel Boat Pilot

East Alton, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Fuel Boat Pilot Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a Fuel Boat Pilot at its ... Inspect all barges according to the Dry Cargo/Chemical Barge Inspection Report, notify a supervisor ...

Ergon, Inc

Fuel Boat Pilot

East Alton, IL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Fuel Boat Pilot Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a Fuel Boat Pilot at its ... Inspect all barges according to the Dry Cargo/Chemical Barge Inspection Report, notify a supervisor ...

ANTELOPE POINT HOLDINGS LLC

Boat Captain

Page, AZ

$25/hr

Boat Captain Department: APEX Salary Range: D.O.E. Reports to: APEX Manager Employment Status ... cargo on board. Address and respond to guest arrivals/departures, needs, requests and customer ...

Town of Greenwich, CT

Boat Crew

Old Greenwich, CT · On-site

Responsible for the timely and safe boarding of passengers and cargo. While boarding; beach cards ... Boat Crew report directly to ferry captains and work under both captains and senior deckhands.

Ergon, Inc

Harbor Boat Pilot, Vicksburg, MS

Vicksburg, MS

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Harbor Boat Pilot Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a full time Harbor ... Inspect all barges according to the Dry Cargo/Chemical Barge Inspection Report, notify a supervisor ...

Ergon, Inc

Harbor Boat Pilot, Vicksburg, MS

Vicksburg, MS · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Harbor Boat Pilot Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a full time Harbor ... Inspect all barges according to the Dry Cargo/Chemical Barge Inspection Report, notify a supervisor ...

Town of Greenwich

Boat Crew

Greenwich, CT · On-site

$17.94 - $18.69/hr

Responsible for the timely and safe boarding of passengers and cargo. While boarding; beach cards ... Boat Crew report directly to ferry captains and work under both captains and senior deckhands.

Town of Greenwich, CT

Boat Crew

Greenwich, CT · On-site

$17.94 - $18.69/hr

Responsible for the timely and safe boarding of passengers and cargo. While boarding; beach cards ... Boat Crew report directly to ferry captains and work under both captains and senior deckhands.

Town of Greenwich, CT

Boat Crew

Greenwich, CT · On-site

$17.94 - $18.69/hr

Responsible for the timely and safe boarding of passengers and cargo. While boarding; beach cards ... Boat Crew report directly to ferry captains and work under both captains and senior deckhands.

Broussard Brothers Inc

Tug Boat Captain

Abbeville, LA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Tug Boat Captain Broussard Brothers, Inc. offers competitive pay, health, dental, and vision ... of the cargo, equipment and supplies being transferred, as well as for the proper care of the ...

T. Parker Host

Push boat Captain Status: Full-time, Rotational Schedule Company: Host Crewing, LLC Reports To: UBT ... handle cargo loads. Since the acquisition, HOST has made extensive improvements in systems and ...

T. Parker Host

Push Boat Captain

Braithwaite, LA

Push boat Captain Status: Full-time, Rotational Schedule Company: Host Crewing, LLC Reports To: UBT ... handle cargo loads. Since the acquisition, HOST has made extensive improvements in systems and ...

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All JobsCargo Boat Jobs

Cargo Boat information

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$13

$21

$36

How much do cargo boat jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for cargo boat in the United States is $21.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cargo boat?

Cargo boats, also known as cargo ships or freighters, are large vessels specifically designed to transport goods and materials across bodies of water. They play a crucial role in global trade by carrying a wide variety of cargo, such as containers, bulk commodities, vehicles, and more, between ports around the world. Cargo boats vary in size and type, including container ships, bulk carriers, tankers, and general cargo ships. Their efficient operation helps ensure that products and raw materials reach their destinations safely and on time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cargo boat operator?

To thrive as a Cargo Boat Operator, you need a solid understanding of maritime navigation, cargo handling, and safety procedures, typically supported by a valid maritime license or certification. Familiarity with shipboard technology like GPS, radar systems, and cargo management software is important for efficient operations. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help ensure safe and coordinated transport. These skills are crucial for maintaining safety standards, efficient cargo delivery, and compliance with maritime regulations.

What are the main challenges faced by crew members working on a cargo boat?

Crew members on cargo boats often face challenges such as long periods away from home, adapting to shifting schedules, and working in varying weather conditions. The role requires effective teamwork and clear communication to ensure safe and efficient cargo handling, navigation, and maintenance. Additionally, crew members must be adaptable and resilient, as they may need to handle emergencies or troubleshoot mechanical issues at sea.

What is the difference between Cargo Boat vs Cargo Ship?

AspectCargo BoatCargo Ship
SizeSmaller, often under 100 metersLarger, over 100 meters
Work EnvironmentShore-based or small ports, inland waterwaysOpen seas, large international ports
CertificationsBasic maritime licenses, local certificationsAdvanced maritime licenses, international certifications
UsageShort-distance, regional transportLong-distance, international freight

In summary, cargo boats are smaller vessels suited for regional or inland waterway transport, requiring basic certifications. Cargo ships are larger, designed for international shipping, and require advanced maritime credentials. The choice depends on the scope and scale of the cargo operation.

How much do cargo boat workers make?

Cargo boat workers, such as deckhands and crew members, typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the vessel. Salaries can increase with certifications like STCW and additional responsibilities onboard.

How to get a job on a cargo boat?

To get a job on a cargo boat, candidates typically need relevant maritime certifications such as STCW, a valid seafarer's license, and experience in ship operations. Applying through shipping companies, crew agencies, or maritime job boards is common, and physical fitness and safety training are often required.
More about Cargo Boat jobs

What cities are hiring for Cargo Boat jobs?

Cities with the most Cargo Boat job openings:

What states have the most Cargo Boat jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cargo Boat jobs include:

Cargo Boat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cargo Boat job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,812 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Fuel Boat Pilot

Ergon, Inc

East Alton, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Ergon Inc. rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 87 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Fuel Boat PilotErgon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a  Fuel Boat Pilot at its Wood River, IL,  location.If you are a hard-working person who enjoys helping others and taking pride in your physical accomplishments, this job might be a good fit for you. EMIS services vessels and tows, and this job allows you to be a part of that support of the river crews. Ergon is a family-owned oil and gas company based in the Jackson, MS area with facilities across the US. EMIS is a subsidiary with facilities that support marine traffic up and down the Mississippi River. Our facilities are located in Vicksburg, MS, Wood River, IL,  and Memphis, TN.Ergon offers a competitive benefits package: 401(k) Matching, Health, Life, Dental, Holidays, Vacation, Sick Leave, Tuition Assistance, and Profit SharingThe Fuel Boat Pilot ensures the safe and efficient operation and performance of his crew, vessel, and tow in a manner that complies with company policy, U. S. Coast Guard rules and regulations, and federal, state, and local laws. Fuel Boat Pilot Responsibilities include the following:Ensure that company policy, rules and regulations are followed.Report violations of EMIS company policy or violations of federal, state or local laws.Ensure deck crew are performing their duties.Inspect all areas of the vessel and tow to ensure safety, proper maintenance, and a clean vessel is ready for voyage.Provide customer service according to the EMIS Mission Statement.Captain has the right to reject of any tow configuration or barge.Ensure all crewmembers on EMIS vessels and docks are using Proper PPE.Assist other operations as required by management.Maintain EMIS fleets and equipment, documenting fleet checks every six hours or as per MARSEC levels.Inspect all barges according to the Dry Cargo/Chemical Barge Inspection Report, notify a supervisor immediately of any damage, and take appropriate measures to ensure safety.Responsible for reviewing the tow orders and determining whether the boat is of sufficient horsepower.Report incidents immediately to appropriate supervisor and enter in vessel logs.Order supplies as needed.Ensure fire extinguishers are recharged or refilled as required for each type of extinguisher.Ensure fire hose with nozzle is at each fire station.Ensure dewatering pumps are on board the vessel and ready for use.Ensure adequate number of approved life preservers are on board.Ensure adequate quantity of first aid supplies onboard the vessel.Ensure crewmembers are properly trained in emergency procedures including fire drills.Chip, Buff, Prime and paint vessel and equipment as needed.Complete Towing Vessel Record each shift which includes the following:Engine Room LogFuel Operations LogPre-Sail Check ListWhen a Fuel Boat Pilot is assigned the task of training an upcoming pilot the current pilot is considered the "Master of the Vessel" and is responsible for and will be held accountable for the actions of the trainee in the performance of their duties.Captain is required to have a safety briefing with crew prior to engaging in any barge tow work, barge movement activity or fuel transfers. This briefing must be documented in the towing vessel record.Fuel Boat Pilot Qualifications:High School Diploma or GEDMust have a U.S. Coast Guard license as Master of Towing Vessels/Limited Master of TowingMust have sufficient time with EMIS to prove competence and leadership skills as determined by the Vice President, for promotion from within the companyMust be able to swimValid TWIC Card (Transportation Workers Identification Credential)Must have a valid driver's licenseWe are an EEO/AAP employer.Position: Fuel Boat PilotEmployment offer contingent upon pre-employment drug test, background check, and MVR.
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