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Entry Level Barge Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Barge information

See Indiana salary details

$12

$16

$21

How much do entry level barge jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level barge in Indiana is $16.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level barge jobs?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Barge Worker, and why are they important?

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 jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Entry-level jobs such as commercial boat crew members, including deckhands on barges, can earn around $3,000 per month with minimal formal education. These roles often require physical fitness, safety training, and sometimes certifications like OSHA or maritime safety courses. Experience and location can influence salary levels for these positions.

What are some 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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry level barge jobs, such as deckhands or crew members, can pay around $4,000 per week, especially with overtime or in high-demand environments like offshore or industrial waterways. These roles typically require physical fitness, safety training, and sometimes certifications like STCW or OSHA, but do not usually require a college degree.

How do you get a job on a barge?

To get a job as an entry-level on a barge, candidates typically need a valid maritime or safety certification such as STCW, relevant physical fitness, and sometimes a maritime or related technical background. Applying through shipping companies, crew agencies, or job boards that specialize in maritime employment is common, and prior experience or training in navigation, cargo handling, or deck operations can improve chances.

Can you get a job on a cruise ship with no experience?

Entry level cruise ship jobs often do not require prior experience, as employers provide on-the-job training. Candidates typically need good communication skills, a positive attitude, and the ability to work in a team environment. Certifications such as STCW may be required for certain positions, but many entry-level roles are accessible to newcomers.

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 Indiana? The most popular types of Barge jobs in Indiana are:
Entry Level Barge jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Barge job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Locum Tenens, 6% Internship, 41% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,521 per year, or $16.1 per hour.
Entry Level Northern Mainline Deckhand

Entry Level Northern Mainline Deckhand

American Commercial Barge Line

Jeffersonville, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago

American Commercial Barge Line rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 5 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... YourIMPACT
  • 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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