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Entry Level Barge Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Welder Helper

Channelview, TX ยท On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Other non-welding duties may be assigned--entry-Level position with a path for advancement. WORK ... RESPONSIBILITIES * Grind barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks, and ...

Welder Helper

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Other non-welding duties may be assigned--entry-Level position with a path for advancement. WORK ... RESPONSIBILITIES * Grind barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks, and ...

Hydroblasting Technician

Port Lavaca, TX ยท On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

... barge cleaning.Principle Duties and ResponsibilitiesAbility to perform work in enclosed ... Career Level: Entry level Experience Required: Prefer 1+ years (not mandatory) Job Type: Employee ...

This position is our entry-level position into the plant. The responsibilities of this job are ... Barge Movement * Rail Operations Qualifications: To be considered for an opportunity, candidates ...

Hydroblasting Technician

Port Lavaca, TX ยท On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

... and barge cleaning. Principle Duties and Responsibilities * Ability to perform work in enclosed ... Career Level: Entry level Experience Required: Prefer 1+ years (not mandatory) Job Type: Employee ...

Utility - Dallas, TX

Dallas, TX ยท On-site

$21.91/hr

This position is our entry-level position into the plant. The responsibilities of this job are ... Barge Movement * Rail Operations Qualifications: To be considered for an opportunity, candidates ...

Utility - Dallas, TX

Dallas, TX ยท On-site

$21.91/hr

This position is our entry-level position into the plant. The responsibilities of this job are ... Barge MovementRail OperationsQualifications:To be considered for an opportunity, candidates must ...

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Entry Level Barge information

See Texas salary details

$12

$15

$20

How much do entry level barge jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level barge in Texas is $15.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.57 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Texas?

The most popular types of Barge jobs in Texas are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Barge jobs in Texas?

For Entry Level Barge jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Entry Level Barge jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Entry Level Barge job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Barge job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,820 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Welder Helper

Southwest Shipyard Lp

Channelview, TX โ€ข On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY OF COMPANY

Southwest Shipyard, LP provides gas freeing and cleaning services, steaming, and flaring services, Barge and boat repair, Surface preparation and painting, water treatment and new construction services to the commercial and government marine industry. Southwest Shipyard owns and operates four (4) shipyards in South Texas with direct deep-water access to the Gulf of Mexico. We take pride in our dedicated and experienced workforce that focuses on Quality, Safety and Environmental Excellence. Our motto is “Faster, Safer, Better”.

JOB SUMMARY
This position assists the welders in welding, brazing, arc-cutting, and setting up the work area. Moves workpieces, tools, and supplies, manually or by hand. Other non-welding duties may be assigned—entry-Level position with a path for advancement.

WORK SCHEDULE

Varies by Department and/or Location.

Day Shift: 7:00am - 3:30pm
Night Shift: 3:30pm - 12:00am (Midnight)

Overtime is built into work schedule.
Regular attendance and punctuality are required of all employees.

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Grind barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks, and external surface areas in preparation for welding.
  • Weld barge & boat repair areas, internal compartments & cargo tanks, external surface areas, and specialty components & areas with the required number of passes to achieve full penetration welds.
  • Operate welding & grinding equipment, blowers, hoses, etc., to assist with weld & repair duties.
  • Assist in securing parts in position for welding and with finish products.
  • Other duties as needed.

PHYSICAL / MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable workplace accommodation.

The individual must also be able to wear and properly utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to work or visit areas where it is required. This includes a hard hat, safety glasses, life vest, respirators, ear plugs, steel-toed shoes, personal flotation devices (PFD’s), or other protective equipment as required by the work performed and the location the work is being done.

In addition, Employees in this position must also be capable of:

  • Walking, stepping, climbing, or otherwise moving from one location on the job site to another, which may be of varying heights and access parameters.
  • Standing, stooping, bending, crouching, kneeling, squatting, climbing, crawling, or sitting for long periods of time.
  • Repetitive movements by feet, shoulders, arms, wrists, hands, and back in the performance of work.
  • Climbing stairs and/or vertical ladders of varying heights.
  • Working in confined work areas and/or elevated heights.
  • Lifting objects of a minimum of 10lbs, with a maximum single-person lift limit of 50lbs, with frequent lifting and carrying.
  • Adapting to temperature changes, outdoor conditions, and prolonged exposure to dusty, wet, or humid conditions, loud noises, and vibration.
  • Visually inspecting equipment and verifying information, often in small print.
  • Driving and/or operating heavy machinery safely and being always alert and aware of surroundings.
  • Applying sideways/upward/downward pressure to tighten and loosen hardware.

The Company expects and requires all employees to observe and fulfill all safety responsibilities as outlined in workplace safety training and actively work toward maintaining a safe workplace. Failure to do so can result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Regular attendance and punctuality are required of all employees.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

  • Must pass a welding test to obtain internal skill classification.
  • Mandatory drug testing prior to employment and will be subject to random, unannounced drug and/or alcohol tests during employment.
  • Must be able to communicate and take directions from Foreman & Supervisor.
  • Able to work without contact lenses.
  • Required to arrive to work on time and also work overtime hours as required.
  • Ability to work in a standing position for extended hours.
  • Resilient to working in adverse climatic conditions.
  • Available to work shifts and extended hours.
  • Understand general policies and procedures as described in the quality & environmental manuals.
  • Required to undergo a training program and participate in refresher training as needed.
  • Must have or be eligible for a TWIC card.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

BENEFITS

  • Competitive Salary.
  • Comprehensive Benefits (medical, dental, vision, life).
  • 401(k)/Retirement Savings.
  • Friendly Work Environment.
  • Paid-Time off/Holidays.
  • Career Path Opportunities

EEO Statement
Southwest Shipyard, LP is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

Southwest Shipyard, LP participates in the E-Verify Employment Verification Program. 

Southwest Shipyard, LP is not currently accepting unsolicited resumes from search firms. Regardless of past practice, all resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Southwest Shipyard, LP, via-email, the Internet or directly to hiring managers at Southwest Shipyard, LP in any form without a valid written agreement in place for that specific position will be deemed the sole property of Southwest Shipyard, LP. As a result, no fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Southwest Shipyard, LP.