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Entry Level Barge Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Foss Maritime

Dredge Deckhand/Engineer

Richmond, CA · On-site

The Deckhand/Engineer is responsible for monitoring and tending barge equipment during loads and ... This is an entry level position with opportunities for advancement. Minimum Qualifications:

Curtin Maritime

Deckhand Trainee

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Curtin Maritime is committed to creating a high paying career path for our entry level employees ... barge, or crane. Curtin Maritime pays for all professional development and training for its ...

Curtin Maritime, Corp

Deckhand Trainee

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Curtin Maritime is committed to creating a high paying career path for our entry level employees ... barge, or crane. Curtin Maritime pays for all professional development and training for its ...

Curtin Maritime

Deckhand Trainee

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Curtin Maritime is committed to creating a high paying career path for our entry level employees ... barge, or crane. Curtin Maritime pays for all professional development and training for its ...

All JobsBarge JobsEntry Level Barge JobsEntry Level Barge Jobs in California

Entry Level Barge information

What is an entry level barge?

Entry level barge jobs involve working on barges, which are flat-bottomed boats used to transport goods on rivers and canals. These positions typically include roles such as deckhand or laborer, where workers assist with loading and unloading cargo, maintaining the barge, and performing general cleaning duties. No prior experience is usually required, but workers must be prepared for physically demanding tasks and long hours on the water. Safety training and a willingness to learn are important for success in these roles. Entry level barge jobs can be a starting point for a career in maritime or shipping industries.

What skills and qualifications are needed for an entry level barge?

To thrive as an Entry Level Barge Worker, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with safety protocols, marine equipment, and sometimes certifications like OSHA or TWIC are typically required. Dependability, strong teamwork, and attention to detail help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining operational safety and efficiency in challenging maritime environments.

What are common challenges faced by someone starting in an entry level barge position, and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level barge workers often encounter challenges such as adapting to long hours, physically demanding tasks, and working in varying weather conditions. It can also take time to become familiar with safety protocols and operating procedures on the water. To overcome these challenges, it's important to actively participate in training, ask questions, and learn from experienced crew members. Building good communication skills and maintaining a strong focus on safety will help new hires succeed and progress in their careers.

What is the difference between Entry Level Barge vs Entry Level Tugboat Operator?

AspectEntry Level BargeEntry Level Tugboat Operator
Required CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, TWIC cardSTCW Basic Safety Training, TWIC card
Work EnvironmentStationary or slow-moving vessels, often in ports or inland waterwaysMoving vessels, navigating waterways, often in open water
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, port authorities, inland waterwaysMaritime shipping, port operations, offshore industries

Entry Level Barge roles typically involve working on stationary or slow-moving vessels in port or inland waterways, focusing on cargo handling and vessel maintenance. In contrast, Entry Level Tugboat Operators actively maneuver vessels in open water, requiring navigation skills. Both roles require similar certifications and are common in maritime industries, but they differ mainly in work environment and vessel operation type.

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

The most popular types of Barge jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Barge jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Barge jobs in California are:

Entry Level Barge jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Barge job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Dredge Deckhand/Engineer

Foss Maritime

Richmond, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

The Deckhand/Engineer is responsible under the direction of the Captain and Leverman to assist in the safe and efficient operation and maintenance of the dredge and associated machinery and equipment. The Deckhand/Engineer is responsible for monitoring and tending barge equipment during loads and offloads to include line-handling, operating machinery + conveyor belts, and engine room rounds. During down time the Deckhand/Engineer will assist maintaining equipment to include deck preservation, fabrication, and machinery repair. This is an entry level position with opportunities for advancement.


Minimum Qualifications:

  • Organizational and communication skills for effective teamwork.
  • Ability to think through unexpected events effectively.
  • Ambition, creativity, resolve, common sense and good judgment for effective problem solving.
  • Administrative skills to maintain records and inventories.
  • Basic computer literacy.
  • Must join the Inland Boatmen's Union within 30 days of hire.
  • Valid driver's license from State of residence.
  • Valid Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) with Ordinary Seaman endorsement (OS)
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Commercial maritime experience, to include line handling and seamanship.
  • Welding/fabrication experience, pipe-fitting.
  • Aptitude for operating machinery, previous experience with heavy machinery.
  • Basic Hydraulics
  • Basic Electrical
  • Basic Mechanics
  • Basic Rigging

How to Apply:

Ready to set sail with Foss? Submit your application via our careers page. If you need any assistance, please reach out to fossjobs@foss.com. We look forward to welcoming you aboard.

Drug Free Workplace:

Foss Maritime Company LLC is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Foss Maritime Company LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.


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