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Inland River Systems Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Inland Marine Boat Pilot Trumbull-Brayman Joint Venture Montgomery Lock & Dam Project - Monaca ... Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) infrastructure project located on the Ohio River navigation system ...

Union Boat Pilot

Felicity, OH · On-site

$44.96/hr

Experience operating vessels in inland river navigation systems * Marine construction or barge fleet support experience preferred * Strong knowledge of river navigation, barge handling, and vessel ...

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Inland River Systems information

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$46K

$102.1K

$153K

How much do inland river systems jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for inland river systems in the United States is $102,067.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Inland River Systems roles such as senior executives, project managers, or specialized engineering positions can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially with experience, bonuses, and profit sharing. High-level positions in the industry often require extensive expertise, leadership skills, and relevant certifications, and compensation varies based on company size and location.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Inland River Systems-related roles such as experienced commercial captains, specialized dredging contractors, or high-level project managers in maritime logistics can sometimes earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and in high-demand environments. These positions often require specialized skills, certifications, and a strong understanding of river and maritime operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an Inland River Systems operator or manager role, and why are they important?

To excel in an Inland River Systems role, you generally need knowledge of maritime regulations, navigation skills, and experience with vessel operations or logistics, often supported by relevant certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Familiarity with navigation software, GPS systems, and fleet management tools is commonly required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills distinguish top performers in coordinating safe and efficient river transport. These abilities are crucial for ensuring regulatory compliance, operational safety, and effective coordination along complex river systems.

What is the highest paid job on a ship?

The highest paid jobs on a ship are typically senior officers such as the captain or master, who oversee all operations and safety. These roles require extensive experience, certifications, and leadership skills, and they often earn the highest salaries among crew members. Salaries can vary based on the vessel type, company, and region but generally reflect the level of responsibility and expertise involved.

What is the difference between Inland River Systems vs Marine Transportation Specialist?

AspectInland River SystemsMarine Transportation Specialist
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), vessel operation certificationsMaritime certifications, STCW, navigation licenses
Work EnvironmentRivers, inland waterways, barges, towboatsOpen sea, coastal waters, ships, ports
Employer & IndustryInland shipping companies, barging firmsShipping lines, maritime agencies

Inland River Systems professionals primarily operate on inland waterways using barges and towboats, requiring certifications like a CDL. Marine Transportation Specialists work in maritime environments, navigating ships across oceans, requiring maritime licenses. Both roles involve transportation but differ in environment, certifications, and industry focus.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Inland River Systems operations?

Professionals in Inland River Systems often encounter challenges related to fluctuating water levels, varying weather conditions, and maintaining navigational safety. Coordinating logistics can be complex, as schedules may be impacted by river traffic, lock delays, or environmental regulations. Effective communication and teamwork with port authorities, crew members, and logistics partners are essential for ensuring smooth operations and resolving unexpected issues. Adapting to rapidly changing conditions and staying updated on regulatory requirements are also crucial aspects of the role.

What are Inland River Systems jobs?

Inland River Systems jobs refer to a range of positions involved in the operation, maintenance, and management of transportation and logistics on navigable rivers within a country, away from coastal waters. These jobs can include roles such as deckhands, pilots, engineers, towboat captains, dispatchers, and maintenance personnel working on barges, towboats, and at ports along rivers like the Mississippi or Ohio. Inland river system workers help move bulk goods, such as grain, coal, and petroleum, efficiently across long distances. They play a crucial role in the supply chain by ensuring safe and timely delivery of goods via waterways, which is often more economical and environmentally friendly than other forms of transport.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

Inland River Systems roles such as experienced vessel operators or specialized logistics managers can potentially earn $10,000 or more monthly through overtime, bonuses, or high-demand projects. These positions often require extensive experience, technical skills, and knowledge of maritime or river navigation, but may not require a formal degree. High earnings are typically associated with unionized or contract work in the industry.
Infographic showing various Inland River Systems job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, 3% Full Time, 81% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,067 per year, or $49.1 per hour.
Inland Wheelman

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

ACBL is currently seeking Captains as well as Pilots for their mainline vessels.   This position has primary responsibility for the safety of vessel employees, the vessel, cargo and the environment.  This position is for our vessels that work primarily in the Canal; however you must be able to work throughout the Inland river system.  This position will work 28 days on the vessel and be off 14 days (28/14) or 28 days on the vessel and off 28 days (28/28).

Your Responsibilities - How You Will Make an IMPACT!

  • Ensure that work completed during his/her watch is done in accordance with Company safety policies and practices
  • Navigate the vessel safely at all times
  • Ensure all crew members on vessel receive instruction on how to do jobs properly and monitor performance
  • Carry out all duties assigned under the Vessel Security Plan as the designated vessel security officer
  • Ensure that each crew member knows the cargo of each barge in tow and has an understanding of any hazards associated with said cargoes. CFR 35.05-15b
  • Enforce all Company policies and vessel specific guidelines in support of the Crew Endurance Management System onboard all vessels
  • Participate in crew management, performance evaluation, general supervisory duties and management of the vessel’s budget
  • Complete required log entries
  • Maintain radio watch as required
  • Report Certain Dangerous Cargoes (CDC) barges at pick-up, drop-off, and designated mile points to the Inland River Vessel Movement Center
  • Enforce all rules
  • Give assignments and direction to the mate and/or lead deckhand
  • Comply with all established vessel management policies and procedures
  • Maintain the vessel budget and help maximize cost efficiency as directed
  • Provide instructions and information to crew members, ACBL land-based personnel, USCG or lock personnel

Job Qualifications - What You Will Bring to the ACBL Team

  • Must meet USCG physical examination requirements
  • Must be able to travel to and from vessel / training locations via air or car travel (must possess a valid driver’s license)
  • Must be able to work one of the following schedules: 28/28 or 28/14
  • Must be able to work a 6 hour on 6 hour off watch or 12 hour watches
  • Must have experience pushing barges (tows of 6 or more preferred)
  • Must be able to climb steep stairs, sit or stand for long periods of time
  • Must be able to ride in or pilot a crew boat or zodiac to get to/from towing vessel
  • Must be able to work in all weather conditions
  • Must maintain valid USCG licensing
  • Master of Towing Vessels upon Western Rivers license required
  • Must have an Inland Waters or Near Coastal Endorsement
  • Maintain an active TWIC