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Deckhand River Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We specialize in the movement of barges along the Lower Mississippi River and the Gulf Intracoastal ... Experienced Deckhand Job Duties include but not limited to: * Safely secure barges with cables ...

Deckhand -Fleet

Belle Chasse, LA · On-site

$16.66 - $20.83/hr

As a leader on the inland river system, Turn Services is committed to safety, excellence, and career growth. We're looking for motivated Deckhands to join our team and help keep America's waterways ...

ADM is seeking a laborer to work as a deckhand under the direction of a Captain on a tug boat at our American River Transportation Company (ARTCo) fleeting location in St. Louis, MO. Job ...

The Deckhand is responsible for building and breaking tow as directed by the Master or his relief ... Mississippi River and Tributaries. Dispatched out of Cape Girardeau, MO Luhr Crosby, LLC is ...

ADM is seeking a laborer to work as a deckhand under the direction of a Captain on a tug boat at our American River Transportation Company (ARTCo) fleeting location in St. Louis, MO. Job ...

ADM is seeking a laborer to work as a deckhand under the direction of a Captain on a lineboat at American River Transportation Company (ARTCo). Job Responsibilities: * General housekeeping and upkeep ...

$245/day

ADM is seeking a laborer to work as a deckhand under the direction of a Captain on a tugboat at our American River Transportation Company (ARTCo) fleeting location in Mt. Vernon, IN Job ...

Experienced Deckhand

Cape Girardeau, MO · On-site

$205 - $335/day

The Deckhand is responsible for building and breaking tow as directed by the Master or his relief ... Mississippi River and Tributaries. Dispatched out of Cape Girardeau, MO Luhr Crosby, LLC is ...

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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 Aug 15, 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 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 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 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.

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.
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:

Infographic showing various Deckhand River job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,879 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Full-time

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Re-posted 3 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: Inland 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 ready to embark on an exciting career of adventure on the waterways? Join our team as an Inland Mainline Deckhand and be an essential part of our dynamic crew. We operate on the beautiful inland rivers, and this position offers a unique schedule of 28 days onboard followed by 28 days off, providing you with valuable work-life balance.

Click here to learn more about the A Day in the Life Aboard ACBL M/V Randall D Chamness on Vimeo. 
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: 

  • Ability to work 28 days onboard and 28 days off schedule with willingness to work overtime as needed.
  • Must have reliable transportation and the ability to travel to your assigned Vessel River Port.
  • Must be able to obtain required Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card.
    Need a TWIC card? Apply here.
  • Must be able to work in inclement weather outdoor, heat and cold.
  • Typical work schedule is 28 days with a 12-hour work shift including holidays.
  • Physical fitness and the ability to perform strenuous tasks.
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills.
  • Basic understanding of navigation and safety procedures.
  • Positive attitude and adaptability to a unique work schedule.
  • Must be 18 years of age.
  • Must be able to complete Health Questionnaire and pass physical abilities test.
  • Cannot have any current pending criminal charges or be on probation.
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen.
  • Adhere to all ACBL policies, United States Coast Guard (USCG) and environmental regulations.

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

  • High School or GED preferred.
  • Previous deckhand experience on inland rivers is a plus but not required.
  • Six (6) months of consecutive work experience preferred.

Reasons you will love working at ACBL …

  • Competitive compensation.
  • Full onboard lodging and meals provided while living on the boat.
  • 28/28 days off to spend quality time with family and pursue personal interests.
  • Comprehensive training and career development opportunities.
  • Healthcare, including medical, dental & vision.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • A chance to be part of a supportive team in the inland river transportation industry.

What American Commercial Barge Line employees say

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