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Inland Towing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AB Tankerman

$1K - $1K/wk

Job Type Full-time Description Dann Marine Towing, LC. Is, a sixth-generation family owned and operated tugboat company, managing a fleet of 24 ocean going tugboats and inland push boats. Our vessels ...

RV Sales Associate

Temecula, CA · On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

At Airstream Inland Empire, we don't just sell travel trailers--we help people create memories ... Demonstrate features, technology, towing capabilities, and ownership benefits. * Guide customers ...

New

AB Tankerman

Chesapeake City, MD · On-site

$1K - $1K/wk

Description: Dann Marine Towing, LC. Is, a sixth-generation family owned and operated tugboat company, managing a fleet of 24 ocean going tugboats and inland push boats. Our vessels range in ...

Logistics Coordinator

Mobile, AL

$19.50 - $26/hr

Cooper Marine's footprint extends to its Louisiana Operations along the Lower Mississippi River as the industry's premier towing vessel operator servicing inland barge fleets. Position Overview: As a ...

Logistics Coordinator

Mobile, AL · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

Cooper Marine's footprint extends to its Louisiana Operations along the Lower Mississippi River as the industry's premier towing vessel operator servicing inland barge fleets. Position Overview: As a ...

Logistics Coordinator

Mobile, AL · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

Cooper Marine's footprint extends to its Louisiana Operations along the Lower Mississippi River as the industry's premier towing vessel operator servicing inland barge fleets. Position Overview: As a ...

McAllister Towing has been a steadfast contributor to the port's success since 1980, providing the ... Coast Guard license for Captain, 100 ton Inland * Current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner ...

McAllister Towing has been a steadfast contributor to the port's success since 1980, providing the ... Coast Guard license for Captain, 100 ton Inland * Current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner ...

Welder

Lemont, IL · On-site

$19.75 - $26/hr

Illinois Marine Towing Welder I. BASIC FUNCTION The Welder is responsible for performing all aspects of welding on inland marine vessels and equipment, including maintenance, fabrication, and ...

Welder

Lemont, IL · On-site

$19.75 - $26/hr

Illinois Marine Towing Welder I. BASIC FUNCTION The Welder is responsible for performing all aspects of welding on inland marine vessels and equipment, including maintenance, fabrication, and ...

Barge Supervisor

Charleston, SC · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

... Moran Towing Corporation's five ocean-going Dry Bulk Barges and two Inland Dry Bulk Barges. During these activities, the incumbent performs all maintenance and/or repair on Barges and reports ...

Barge Supervisor

Luling, LA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

... Moran Towing Corporation's five ocean-going Dry Bulk Barges and two Inland Dry Bulk Barges. During these activities, the incumbent performs all maintenance and/or repair on Barges and reports ...

Barge Supervisor

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

... Moran Towing Corporation's five ocean-going Dry Bulk Barges and two Inland Dry Bulk Barges. During these activities, the incumbent performs all maintenance and/or repair on Barges and reports ...

Barge Supervisor

Tampa, FL · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

... Moran Towing Corporation's five ocean-going Dry Bulk Barges and two Inland Dry Bulk Barges. During these activities, the incumbent performs all maintenance and/or repair on Barges and reports ...

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Inland Towing information

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$9

$24

$54

How much do inland towing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for inland towing in the United States is $24.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Inland Towing Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Inland Towing Operator, you need knowledge of navigational practices, vessel operations, and safety procedures, usually supported by a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and relevant endorsements. Familiarity with marine radios, GPS navigation, and towboat-specific equipment is essential for daily operations. Strong communication, teamwork, and situational awareness are vital soft skills for handling dynamic river environments and coordinating with crew. These competencies ensure safe, efficient transport of goods and compliance with maritime regulations.

What is inland towing?

Inland towing refers to the transportation of barges, ships, or other vessels along rivers, canals, and other inland waterways. This job typically involves operating towboats or tugboats to move cargo safely and efficiently between ports that are located away from the open sea. Inland towing is crucial for industries such as agriculture, petroleum, and construction, as it allows for the movement of large amounts of goods over long distances. Workers in this field need to have strong navigational skills, knowledge of maritime regulations, and the ability to work in various weather conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by inland towing professionals, and how can they be managed on the job?

Inland towing professionals often encounter challenges such as navigating narrow waterways, unpredictable weather conditions, and coordinating with lock and port authorities. These challenges require strong situational awareness, effective communication skills, and the ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. Working as part of a close-knit crew also means collaborating efficiently and maintaining safety standards at all times. Employers typically provide ongoing training and support to help team members manage these challenges and ensure smooth operations.

What is the difference between Inland Towing vs Marine Towing?

AspectInland TowingMarine Towing
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), towing certificationsMaritime licenses, STCW certifications
Work EnvironmentRivers, lakes, inland waterwaysOpen seas, coastal areas
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, inland freight carriersMaritime shipping, port authorities

Inland Towing involves transporting vessels or cargo along rivers and lakes using tugboats or barges, requiring CDL and inland navigation skills. Marine Towing, on the other hand, involves towing ships or large vessels at sea, requiring maritime licenses and sea navigation expertise. Both roles are essential in the shipping industry but differ mainly in environment and certification requirements.

More about Inland Towing jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Inland Towing jobs? The most popular types of Inland Towing jobs are:
Infographic showing various Inland Towing job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,219 per year, or $24.1 per hour.
Experienced Inland Wheelman

Experienced Inland Wheelman

Kirby Corporation

Channelview, TX

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

As a Wheelman, you are responsible for managing the vessel, the vessel's personnel and all barges in tow. You will be responsible for all crew members and their adherence to all United States Coast Guard regulations and company policies.  You will be expected to navigate the vessel in a safe manner and ensure safety rules are followed by everyone.  You will be reporting to the Captain of the vessel and the shoreside vessel operations group.  Applicant must hold a Master or Mate of Towing Vessels on Inland Waters and Western Rivers.


Basic Functions:

1. As a supervisor you will be responsible for training the crew on how to perform their job in a safe manor.

2. Safely Navigate in the Intercoastal canal and Mississippi river system. Radio Communications and Radar experience is required.

3. Supervise the daily maintenance and housekeeping of the vessel.

4. Supervise all barge transfers and fueling operations.

5. Follow all company policies.

6. Ensure vessel is in compliance with all environmental laws and United States Coast Guard regulations.

7. Will act as a company representative on a daily basis with customers at the dock.

8. Ensure engine room maintenance is kept up on a daily basis

9. In the event of an emergency will act as the on site coordinator until vessel operations arrive.

10. Wheelman will be responsible for keeping up with daily logs while on watch.


QUALIFICATIONS, COMPETENCIES AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

  1. Must have valid TWIC.
  2. Must have valid MMC with Inland and Western Rivers endorsement.
  3. Must have valid USCG medical certificate
  4. Must have valid Radar endorsement.
  5. Must have valid Radio/FCC License.
  6. Must have a valid Drivers License.
  7. Must have a Social Security Card.
  8. Must be 18 years of age.
  9. Must be a U. S. Citizen or provide eligibility to work in the US.
  10. Must be able to work away from home.
  11. Must be able to read and write English.
  12. Must have reliable transportation.
  13. Must be able to pass a drug and alcohol screen.
  14. Must not be color blind.
  15. Must be able to work outdoors in inclement weather.
  16. Must not have more than 2 moving violations in the last 3 years.
  17. Must not have a DWI or DUI in the last 3 years.
  18. Cannot have any criminal charges pending, or be on probation.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Walk – Must be able to walk as needed on vessel and barge
  • Step - Must be able to step 2ft vertical and 2ft horizontal
  • Climb - Must be able to climb a 90 degree vertical ladder 25-30 feet
  • Grip - Must be able to grip 50 lbs
  • Push/Hold/Pull – Must be able to push, pull and hold 70lbs
  • Lift – Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
  • Vision - Color vision and eyesight must be sufficient to pass an eye test as required to obtain a merchant mariners credential. 
  • Hearing – Must meet minimum standards, as per USCG requirements
  • Speech - Must be able to verbally communicate in the English language both in delivery and ability to be understood using handheld radios or other devices, as required
  • Smell – Must possess a sense of smell to be able to detect the presence of potentially dangerous vapors
  • Pulmonary Functions - Must pass a pulmonary function test with a minimum score of 75%
  • General - Must be able to enter and exit hatches/doorways quickly in case of emergency.
  • Equipment - Must be able to wear a negative or positive pressure respirator, PVC foul weather gear, personal flotation device, rubber gloves and boots. 
  • Ability to use firefighting / spill containment equipment