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Internship Barge Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Skilled Laborer

Baltimore, MD

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

We have a unique culture of true excellence; we hold each other accountable from our newest interns ... and barge experience preferred · Prior general/skilled labor experience a plus · Concrete ...

Skilled Laborer

Greer, SC · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

We have a unique culture of true excellence; we hold each other accountable from our newest interns ... lines, and operating small vessels, including crew boats. Candidates should have a strong ...

Skilled Laborer

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

We have a unique culture of true excellence; we hold each other accountable from our newest interns ... barge experience preferred • Prior general/skilled labor experience a plus • Concrete ...

This position is accountable for providing Pile Driving on a work barge and ensuring that all work ... it is operating properly. • Assist in unloading and assembling a crane or other hoisting ...

Internship Barge Operator information

What is an Internship Barge Operator?

An Internship Barge Operator is a trainee or entry-level worker who assists with the operation and maintenance of barges, which are flat-bottomed boats used to transport goods on rivers and canals. During the internship, they learn about navigation, cargo handling, safety procedures, and daily operations under the supervision of experienced barge operators or captains. This role provides hands-on experience in the maritime industry and helps interns develop skills necessary for a career in barge or vessel operations.

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

To thrive as an Internship Barge Operator, you generally need basic maritime knowledge, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often complemented by enrollment in a maritime training program. Familiarity with navigation systems, safety protocols, and deck machinery is important, and obtaining certifications such as a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) or Basic Safety Training can be advantageous. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and communication skills help you effectively support senior crew members and respond to onboard challenges. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safety, operational efficiency, and successful learning in a dynamic maritime environment.

What are some typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for an Internship Barge Operator?

As an Internship Barge Operator, your daily tasks may include monitoring barge operations, assisting with loading and unloading cargo, performing routine maintenance checks, and supporting navigation under supervision. You'll work closely with experienced operators and crew, gaining hands-on training in safety protocols, barge handling, and maritime communication. This role offers a strong foundation for understanding vessel operations and can be a stepping stone to more advanced positions in the maritime industry. Collaboration and adaptability are key, as you'll often coordinate with both onshore staff and other vessel crew members.

What is the difference between Internship Barge Operator vs Barge Crew Member?

AspectInternship Barge OperatorBarge Crew Member
Required CredentialsBasic safety training, possibly a temporary licenseSafety training, sometimes a safety certification
Work EnvironmentSupervised, training-focused on operating barge equipmentOnboard barge, assisting with operations and maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in maritime, shipping, and construction industries for trainingCommonly employed in shipping, transportation, and logistics

Internship Barge Operators are typically trainees learning to operate barges under supervision, focusing on gaining skills and certifications. Barge Crew Members assist with daily operations and maintenance onboard, often with similar safety requirements. Both roles are integral to maritime industries but differ mainly in experience level and responsibilities.

More about Internship Barge Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Internship Barge Operator jobs? Cities with the most Internship Barge Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Barge Operator jobs? The most popular types of Barge Operator jobs are:
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Infographic showing various Internship Barge Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Internship, 16% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Skilled Laborer

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

WHY JOIN BALLARD MARINE CONSTRUCTION?

Ballard Marine Construction is a specialty marine and underwater contractor based in Washougal, WA, with regional offices and projects throughout North America.

Why join Ballard? It’s simple. You get to work on amazing technical projects with likeminded team members. The Ballard culture is second to none, and because of that we are incredibly protective and particular on who we invite onto the team. We have a unique culture of true excellence; we hold each other accountable from our newest interns and engineers to our most senior leaders. You will always go to work knowing that everyone you are working with cares as much as you do and is working hard to reach common goals. You will get out of it what you put into it. Ballard is an amazing place to work and if what we’ve said resonates with you, you just might be right for us!

Job Summary:

The Skilled Laborer position assists the skilled craft personnel in performing required construction tasks to complete a project.

Ideal Candidate:

 

Core Attributes:

·         Grit and Resiliency - We dig deep to figure out how to make things happen no matter how impossible it seems. We never give up. We take on challenges that nobody else can; or will.

·         Comradery and Inspirational - We are a hard-working team of likeminded individuals working toward a common goal. We regularly celebrate wins and like to have fun whether at work or at play. We come together each day looking for ways to instill life and energy into the world around us.

·         Driven and Competitive - We love competition. We love to win and love to learn when we lose. Not getting the job done is not an option. We are obsessed to do our best and we do what it takes to win.

·         Trustworthy and Respectful - We are passionate about honesty, authenticity and transparency. No lies. No drama. No politics. We value constructive conflict and ensure that even in conflict we treat others with respect.

·         Ownership and Accountability - When something goes wrong, we first “look in the mirror” before we “look out the window”. We ask “what could I have done differently?” and then we share lessons learned. Regularly challenging ourselves and those around us to be better is a way of life. “Me first” belongs here.

Education:

·         Highschool or equivalent

·         Valid driver's license

·         Authorized to work in the United States

Experience:

·         Experience and proficiency working with standard laborer tools such as (but not limited to): sledgehammers, shovels, brooms, vacuums, pressure washers and general hand tools.

·         Boat operation and barge experience preferred

·         Prior general/skilled labor experience a plus

·         Concrete experience preferred

Skills:

·         Honest, trustworthy, dependable.

·         Punctual. Must arrive at work by the designated start time.

·         Must have a safety-first attitude. Strict adherence to safety requirements and procedures is required

·         Must display a professional and courteous attitude to co-workers, supervisors, and the general public at all times.

·         Ability to work diligently while under time restraints. Willing to accept change.

·         Ability to communicate well as part of a small team and work cooperatively with other colleagues.

·         Ability to give and receive, understand, respond, and follow verbal and written communication and instructions.

Responsibilities:

·         Operate and care for construction equipment and machines.

·         Prep construction sites by cleaning obstacles and hazards.

·         Load, unload, or identify building materials, machinery, or tools, distributing them to the appropriate locations, according to project plans or specifications.

·         Measure, mark, or record openings or distances to layout areas where construction work will be performed.

·         Dig ditches or trenches, backfill excavations, or compact and level earth to grade specifications, using picks, shovels, pneumatic tampers, or rakes.

·         Mix, pour, or spread concrete, using portable cement mixers.

·         Tend pumps, compressors, or generators to provide power for tools, machinery, or equipment or to heat or move materials, such as asphalt.

·         Erect or dismantle scaffolding, shoring, braces, traffic barricades, ramps, or other temporary structures.

·         Sweeps and cleans the project site.

·         Carries lumber and supplies to Carpenters

·         Helps carpenters assemble concrete forms

·         Assists welders when needed

·         Works with cranes and rigging

·         Acts as signal person for the equipment operators

·         Chips, paints, sweeps, and washes down equipment on the job site

·         Safely secure the work area to allow only authorized personnel onto work zone

·         Loads and unloads materials from, deck barges, and miscellaneous equipment

·         Provide assistance to craft workers, such as carpenters, plasterers, or masons.

·         Performs other duties as required.

Physical Demands / Working Environment:

 

·         Work is performed in the field and in all-weather condition

·         Must be able to perform physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials up to 75 pounds.

·         Ability able to tolerate, vibrations, heat, and high noise levels

·         Able to safely execute duties in and round heavy equipment/large machinery in marine dredging and marine construction job sites

·         Able to wear the personal protective equipment (PPE) required o