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Deckhand River Jobs (NOW HIRING)

First Lady

Deckhand

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19/hr

Meet great friends and enjoy a summer working on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan! Work your way up through our training program to become a Senior Deckhand or even a Captain, if interested.

Hines Furlong Line

Experienced Deckhand

Paducah, KY · Remote

Tasks are carried out in all weather conditions, both outside and within the confines of the vessel, while navigating the western rivers. Responsibilities * Deckhands are primarily responsible for ...

Pine Bluff Materials Co.

Dredge Deckhand

Ledbetter, KY · On-site

Dredge Deckhand position on a dredge on the Ohio River with primary base of report in Ledbetter, KY. Must communicate and work well with tender boat crew on all shifts, dredge and dredge support crew ...

New

Hines Furlong Line

Inexperienced Deckhand

Paducah, KY · Remote

Tasks are carried out in all weather conditions, both outside and within the confines of the vessel, while navigating the western rivers. Responsibilities * Deckhands are primarily responsible for ...

Maintenance Dredging I, LLC

Deckhand

New Orleans, LA · On-site

Work with us on the Mississippi River and in the Gulf Region. Maintenance Dredging I, LLC is seeking experienced Deckhand to perform essential duties aboard its dredges. Requirements: * pass pre ...

Pine Bluff Materials, Co.

Dredge Deckhand

Henderson, KY · On-site

$21.29 - $23.57/hr

Dredge Deckhand position on a dredge on the Ohio River with primary base of report in Ledbetter, KY. Must communicate and work well with tender boat crew on all shifts, dredge and dredge support crew ...

Pine Bluff Materials, Co.

Dredge Deckhand

Ledbetter, KY · On-site

$21.29 - $23.57/hr

Dredge Deckhand position on a dredge on the Ohio River with primary base of report in Ledbetter, KY. Must communicate and work well with tender boat crew on all shifts, dredge and dredge support crew ...

New

Pine Bluff Materials, Co.

Dredge Deckhand

Henderson, KY · On-site

$21.29 - $23.57/hr

Dredge Deckhand position on a dredge on the Ohio River with primary base of report in Ledbetter, KY. Must communicate and work well with tender boat crew on all shifts, dredge and dredge support crew ...

Pine Bluff Materials, Co.

Dredge Deckhand

Ledbetter, KY · On-site

$21.29 - $23.57/hr

Dredge Deckhand position on a dredge on the Ohio River with primary base of report in Ledbetter, KY. Must communicate and work well with tender boat crew on all shifts, dredge and dredge support crew ...

Pine Bluff Materials Co.

Dredge Deckhand

Henderson, KY · On-site

Dredge Deckhand position on a dredge on the Ohio River with primary base of report in Ledbetter, KY. Must communicate and work well with tender boat crew on all shifts, dredge and dredge support crew ...

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Deckhand River information

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$12

$21

$30

How much do deckhand river jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for deckhand river in the United States is $21.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a deckhand river?

Deckhand River jobs involve working on riverboats, barges, or other vessels that operate on inland waterways. Deckhands are responsible for tasks such as tying and untying lines, handling cargo, maintaining the vessel, and assisting with navigation and safety procedures. The work can be physically demanding and often requires long hours, sometimes in challenging weather conditions. Deckhands play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of river vessels.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a deckhand river?

To thrive as a Deckhand River, you need physical stamina, basic seamanship knowledge, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with vessel maintenance tools, safety equipment, and sometimes certifications like a TWIC card or First Aid/CPR are typically required. Strong teamwork, communication skills, and attention to detail help deckhands work safely and efficiently in challenging river environments. These abilities are crucial to ensure the safety, smooth operation, and compliance of river vessels during transport and docking.

What are some common challenges faced by deckhands on river vessels, and how can they be overcome?

Deckhands on river vessels often contend with physically demanding work, variable weather conditions, and long shifts that can impact work-life balance. Tasks such as line handling, cleaning, and maintenance require stamina and attention to safety. Building strong teamwork skills is essential, as deckhands closely coordinate with other crew members to ensure smooth operations. Staying proactive about safety training, maintaining open communication, and focusing on physical fitness can help overcome these challenges and contribute to a rewarding experience in the role.

What is the difference between Deckhand River vs Deckhand Marine?

AspectDeckhand RiverDeckhand Marine
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, First AidSTCW Basic Safety Training, First Aid
Work EnvironmentRivers, inland waterwaysOpen seas, coastal waters
Industry UsageCommercial inland shipping, river transportMaritime shipping, offshore vessels

Deckhand River and Deckhand Marine share similar certifications and safety training requirements. The main difference lies in their work environment: Deckhand River operates on inland waterways and rivers, while Deckhand Marine works on open seas and coastal areas. Both roles are essential in their respective sectors, with overlapping skills but different operational contexts.

Is it hard to get a job as a deckhand river?

Getting a job as a river deckhand can be competitive and often requires physical stamina, basic seamanship skills, and sometimes a valid boating license or safety certifications. Experience working on boats or in maritime environments can improve chances, but entry-level positions are available for those willing to learn and meet safety requirements.
More about Deckhand River jobs

What cities are hiring for Deckhand River jobs?

Cities with the most Deckhand River job openings:

What states have the most Deckhand River jobs?

States with the most job openings for Deckhand River jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Deckhand River jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Deckhand River jobs are:

Deckhand River jobs near you
Infographic showing various Deckhand River job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 3% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,879 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Experienced Northern Mainline Deckhand

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Paducah, KY

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist with the safe loading and unloading of cargo.

  • Inspect, correct, or notify others of conditions affecting safety of team members or cargo.

  • Handle rigging during barge tow building, locking, and docking activities.

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: Experienced Northern Mainline Deckhand
Company: American Commercial Barge Line
Location: Upper Midwest States (OH, IN, IL, KY, IA, WV, MO, TN, AR)
Job Type: Full-Time
Schedule: 28 Days Onboard, 28 Days Off

Are you a seasoned deckhand ready to take your career to the next level? Join American Commercial Barge Line (ACBL) as an Experienced Northern Mainline Deckhand and play a vital role in our dynamic and dedicated crew. This position offers the opportunity to work on the inland rivers with a schedule that balances work and personal time effectively.
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 

  • Assist with the safe loading and unloading of cargo.
  • Inspects, corrects, or notifies others of any conditions which affects the safety of Team Members or cargo.
  • Handles rigging during barge tow building, locking, and docking activities.
  • Assists with loading or unloading materials and supplies to and from docks, barges, and boats.
  • Examines cables, wires, and lines to ensure they are fit for use. Uses tools to tighten or loosen same as needed.
  • Effectively handles tow wires and cables to secure barges in a safe and environmentally appropriate fashion.
  • Performs basic vessel maintenance such as painting, cleaning, changing oil and filters, etc.
  • Exhibits and demonstrates integrity, mutual care, personal responsibility, agility, customer focus and teamwork.
  • Be an active member of the crew and contribute to a positive work environment.

What we are looking for... 

You will need to have: 

  • What We Are Looking For:

    To qualify as an Experienced Mainline Deckhand, you will need:

    • Experience:

      • Minimum of 1 year of deckhand experience, preferably on inland rivers.

    • Availability:

      • Ability to work a schedule of 28 days onboard with 28/14 days off, and flexibility to work overtime as required.
      • Reliable transportation to travel to your assigned Vessel River Port.

    • Credentials:

      • Ability to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card.
      • Must be 18 years or older and able to complete a Health Questionnaire and pass a physical abilities test.
      • Must pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.

    • Physical and Mental Readiness:

      • Physical fitness to perform strenuous tasks and work in various weather conditions.
      • Strong understanding of navigation and safety procedures.
      • Positive attitude and adaptability to a unique work schedule.

Even better if you have one or more of the following: 

  • Preferred Qualifications:

    • High School diploma or GED.
    • Previous deckhand experience on inland rivers beyond the minimum requirement.
    • Consistent work history demonstrating reliability and dedication.

Reasons you will love working at ACBL …

  • Receive a competitive salary with opportunities for overtime.
  • Take advantage of training and career development opportunities.
  • Benefit from a structured schedule with significant time off to spend with family and pursue personal interests.
  • Healthcare, including medical, dental & vision.
  • Enjoy full onboard lodging and meals during your work period.
  • Access healthcare benefits including medical, dental, and vision.
  • Participate in our 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
  • Be part of a supportive and experienced team in the inland river transportation industry.

Ready to Navigate Your Career with ACBL?

If you’re an experienced deckhand ready to make an IMPACT on the waterways, apply today to join American Commercial Barge Line. Embrace the adventure and be a part of our legacy!

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