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Marine Pilot Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

... marine/industrial flooring. Advanced Analytical Leadership * Lead the strategic use of deep ... Partner closely with the Manager of the Pilot Lab & Process Scale-Up to ensure that foundational ...

... marine/industrial flooring. Advanced Analytical Leadership * Lead the strategic use of deep ... Partner closely with the Manager of the Pilot Lab & Process Scale-Up to ensure that foundational ...

Marine Pilot information

See Indiana salary details

$51.9K

$137.5K

$256.9K

How much do marine pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for marine pilot in Indiana is $137,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,200.00 and $218,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a marine pilot do?

A typical workday for a Marine Pilot involves boarding vessels—often by boat or ladder—to guide them safely in and out of harbors, navigating complex waterways, and coordinating closely with ship captains, crew, and harbor authorities. Marine Pilots frequently work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, due to tide schedules and ship arrivals. The environment can be demanding, requiring quick thinking and adaptability to changing weather and traffic conditions. You’ll spend much of your time on board ships and in direct communication with multiple teams to ensure safe passage. This dynamic workday appeals to those who thrive in high-responsibility, ever-changing settings.

What is a marine pilot?

A Marine Pilot is a highly trained professional responsible for navigating ships safely through challenging waters, such as ports, harbors, and coastal areas. They have expert knowledge of local waterways, tides, currents, and potential hazards. Marine Pilots board vessels to assist the ship's captain in maneuvering through these areas, ensuring safe passage and preventing accidents. Their role is crucial in maintaining maritime safety and protecting the environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a marine pilot?

To thrive as a Marine Pilot, you need expert knowledge of ship handling, navigation, and maritime regulations, typically supported by a maritime academy background and relevant pilotage licenses. Familiarity with advanced navigation systems, radar, electronic chart display systems, and local port protocols is crucial. Exceptional situational awareness, decision-making, and communication skills help you manage vessel movements safely and efficiently, especially under pressure. These competencies are vital for protecting life, property, and the environment while ensuring the smooth operation of busy ports.

What are popular job titles related to Marine Pilot jobs in Indiana? For Marine Pilot jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Marine Pilot jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Marine Pilot jobs in Indiana are:
Infographic showing various Marine Pilot job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $137,530 per year, or $66.1 per hour.

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago


American Commercial Barge Line rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Title: Upper Miss, Lower Miss Pilot/Captain
Company: American Commercial Barge Line
Location: Traveling on waterways
Job Type: Full-Time
Schedule: 8 Days Onboard, 28 Days Off OR 28 Days Onboard, 14 Days Off
Are you an experienced and dedicated Marine Pilot or Captain ready to lead vessels through the picturesque waterways of the Upper Mississippi? Join American Commercial Barge Line and play a pivotal role in ensuring safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible navigation.
When you join ACBL…
American Commercial Barge Line (ACBL) is one of the largest and most diversified marine transportation companies in the U.S. Our legacy of providing the nation with the most economical, safest, and greenest mode of transportation dates all the way back to 1915, when we began moving coal on the Kentucky River.  We offer a wide range of career paths in both operations and support services. Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the best of the best to join our ACBL team. 
What you will be doing... Your IMPACT 

  • Navigate vessels safely and efficiently along the Upper Mississippi, Lower Mississippi, Illinois Rivers, and other tributaries, considering factors such as currents, weather conditions, and river traffic.
  • Supervise and lead the vessel's crew, ensuring a cohesive and safety-conscious team.
  • Ensure vessels adhere to all federal and local maritime regulations and environmental standards.
  • Respond promptly and effectively to navigational challenges and emergencies to protect the vessel, crew, and cargo.
  • Maintain accurate logs and records of each voyage, including navigational charts and incident reports.
  • Carry out all duties assigned under the Vessel Security Plan as the designated vessel security officer.
  • Enforce all Company policies and vessel specific guidelines in support of the Crew Endurance Management System onboard all vessels
  • Report Certain Dangerous Cargoes (CDC) barges at pick-up, drop-off, and designated mile points to the Inland River Vessel Movement Center

 What we are looking for...

You will need to have:

  • Master of Towing Vessels upon Western Rivers license required
  • Must have an Inland Waters or Near Coastal Endorsement
  • Must meet USCG physical examination requirements
  • Must be able to travel to and from vessel / training locations via air or vehicle.
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license.
  • Ability to work 28 days onboard and 28/14 days off schedule with willingness to work overtime as needed.
  • Must be able to work a 6 hours on / 6 hours off watch or 12-hour watches.
  • Must have experience pushing barges.
  • 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.
  • Maintain an active TWIC.

Even better if you have:

  • Must have experience pushing tows of 6+ barges.
  • 4+ years of previous experience.

Reasons you will love working at ACBL …

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Opportunity to lead navigational operations in the heartland of the United States.
  • Collaborative and safety-focused work environment
  • Well-maintained and state-of-the-art vessels
  • Commitment to environmental stewardship
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
  • Employee Assistance Program.

What American Commercial Barge Line employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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