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Fire Boat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fuel Boat Pilot Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a Fuel Boat Pilot at its ... Ensure fire extinguishers are recharged or refilled as required for each type of extinguisher.

Fuel Boat Pilot Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a Fuel Boat Pilot at its ... Ensure fire extinguishers are recharged or refilled as required for each type of extinguisher.

Fuel Boat Pilot Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a Fuel Boat Pilot at its ... Ensure fire extinguishers are recharged or refilled as required for each type of extinguisher.

Medic/Firefighter I

Hopewell, VA · On-site

$58K - $74K/yr

Performs non-emergency public services such as lift assists, stand-by for events, river duties on fire boat, etc., as needed. * Provides public safety education services to the community (makes ...

Performs non-emergency public services such as lift assists, stand-by for events, river duties on fire boat, etc., as needed Provides public safety education services to the community (makes ...

Firefighter

Hampstead, NC · On-site

$49K - $79K/yr

... and fire boat operations. Operates various apparatus to include fire engine, aerial truck, tanker, rescue, brush, ATV, boats, etc. for emergency and routine response to emergencies and daily ...

Firefighter

Panama City, FL · On-site

$51K/yr

Ability to perform water rescues and operate or assist with operations on the fire boat. * Ability to participate or assist as part of the dive or USAR team. * Ability to perform general household ...

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Fire Boat information

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$31K

$105.6K

$183K

How much do fire boat jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire boat in the United States is $105,577.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $124,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced while working on a fire boat?

Working on a fire boat often means responding to emergencies in unpredictable and challenging conditions, such as rough waters, strong currents, and restricted visibility. Crew members must be prepared to operate specialized equipment and execute complex rescues or firefighting operations in close coordination with other agencies, such as the Coast Guard and local fire departments. Physical stamina, adaptability, and a calm demeanor are essential due to the demanding and sometimes hazardous nature of the job. Despite these challenges, many fire boat professionals find the work highly rewarding, as it plays a vital role in marine safety and community protection.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Fire Boat position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Boat crew member, you need expertise in marine operations, knowledge of firefighting techniques, and relevant certifications such as Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and Firefighter I/II. Familiarity with navigation systems, marine communication equipment, and onboard firefighting systems is essential. Strong teamwork, quick decision-making, and effective communication are key soft skills in this position. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe and efficient emergency response on the water, protecting lives and property during maritime incidents.

What is a Fire Boat job?

A Fire Boat job involves operating and maintaining a specialized vessel equipped for firefighting on waterways. Fire boat crews respond to marine fires, assist in rescue operations, and support firefighting efforts in coastal, harbor, or riverfront areas. They often work alongside local fire departments and emergency services to control fires on ships, docks, and waterfront structures. The job requires training in firefighting techniques, maritime navigation, and vessel operation to ensure effective emergency response.

More about Fire Boat jobs
What cities are hiring for Fire Boat jobs? Cities with the most Fire Boat job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Boat jobs? The most popular types of Fire Boat jobs are:
What states have the most Fire Boat jobs? States with the most job openings for Fire Boat jobs include:
Infographic showing various Fire Boat job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $105,577 per year, or $50.8 per hour.
Fuel Boat Pilot

Fuel Boat Pilot

Ergon, Inc

East Alton, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Ergon Inc. rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 86 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Fuel Boat Pilot

Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a  Fuel Boat Pilot at its Wood River, IL,  location.

If you are a hard-working person who enjoys helping others and taking pride in your physical accomplishments, this job might be a good fit for you. EMIS services vessels and tows, and this job allows you to be a part of that support of the river crews.

Ergon is a family-owned oil and gas company based in the Jackson, MS area with facilities across the US. EMIS is a subsidiary with facilities that support marine traffic up and down the Mississippi River. Our facilities are located in Vicksburg, MS, Wood River, IL,  and Memphis, TN.

Ergon offers a competitive benefits package: 401(k) Matching, Health, Life, Dental, Holidays, Vacation, Sick Leave, Tuition Assistance, and Profit Sharing

The Fuel Boat Pilot ensures the safe and efficient operation and performance of his crew, vessel, and tow in a manner that complies with company policy, U. S. Coast Guard rules and regulations, and federal, state, and local laws. 

Fuel Boat Pilot Responsibilities include the following:

  • Ensure that company policy, rules and regulations are followed.

  • Report violations of EMIS company policy or violations of federal, state or local laws.

  • Ensure deck crew are performing their duties.

  • Inspect all areas of the vessel and tow to ensure safety, proper maintenance, and a clean vessel is ready for voyage.

  • Provide customer service according to the EMIS Mission Statement.

  • Captain has the right to reject of any tow configuration or barge.

  • Ensure all crewmembers on EMIS vessels and docks are using Proper PPE.

  • Assist other operations as required by management.

  • Maintain EMIS fleets and equipment, documenting fleet checks every six hours or as per MARSEC levels.

  • Inspect all barges according to the Dry Cargo/Chemical Barge Inspection Report, notify a supervisor immediately of any damage, and take appropriate measures to ensure safety.

  • Responsible for reviewing the tow orders and determining whether the boat is of sufficient horsepower.

  • Report incidents immediately to appropriate supervisor and enter in vessel logs.

  • Order supplies as needed.

  • Ensure fire extinguishers are recharged or refilled as required for each type of extinguisher.

  • Ensure fire hose with nozzle is at each fire station.

  • Ensure dewatering pumps are on board the vessel and ready for use.

  • Ensure adequate number of approved life preservers are on board.

  • Ensure adequate quantity of first aid supplies onboard the vessel.

  • Ensure crewmembers are properly trained in emergency procedures including fire drills.

  • Chip, Buff, Prime and paint vessel and equipment as needed.

  • Complete Towing Vessel Record each shift which includes the following:

    • Engine Room Log
    • Fuel Operations Log
    • Pre-Sail Check List

    When a Fuel Boat Pilot is assigned the task of training an upcoming pilot the current pilot is considered the "Master of the Vessel" and is responsible for and will be held accountable for the actions of the trainee in the performance of their duties.

    Captain is required to have a safety briefing with crew prior to engaging in any barge tow work, barge movement activity or fuel transfers. This briefing must be documented in the towing vessel record.

Fuel Boat Pilot Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED

  • Must have a U.S. Coast Guard license as Master of Towing Vessels/Limited Master of Towing

  • Must have sufficient time with EMIS to prove competence and leadership skills as determined by the Vice President, for promotion from within the company

  • Must be able to swim

  • Valid TWIC Card (Transportation Workers Identification Credential)

  • Must have a valid driver's license

We are an EEO/AAP employer.

Position: Fuel Boat Pilot


Employment offer contingent upon pre-employment drug test, background check, and MVR.


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