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River Boat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Lindy Group

Inland Marine Boat Pilot

Monaca, PA

$44.96/hr

S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) infrastructure project located on the Ohio River navigation ... The Boat Pilot will operate towboats and support vessels used to position barges, floating cranes ...

Terral River Service Inc

BOAT PILOT

Lettsworth, LA · On-site

... sounds, rivers, lakes, bays and other navigable bodies of water. * Responsible for crew safety ... This provides a general overview of the typical responsibilities and qualifications for a Boat ...

Terral River Service Inc

BOAT PILOT

Channelview, TX · On-site

... sounds, rivers, lakes, bays and other navigable bodies of water. * Responsible for crew safety ... This provides a general overview of the typical responsibilities and qualifications for a Boat ...

Brayman Construction

Union Boat Pilot

Cincinnati, OH

$44.96/hr

The Boat Pilot will safely maneuver towboats and support vessels to position barges, floating ... Monitor river conditions and coordinate vessel movements in the active navigation pool * Work ...

Brayman Construction

Union Boat Pilot

Felicity, OH · On-site

$44.96/hr

The Boat Pilot will safely maneuver towboats and support vessels to position barges, floating ... Monitor river conditions and coordinate vessel movements in the active navigation pool * Work ...

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River Boat information

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$5

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$48

How much do river boat jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for river boat in the United States is $25.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a River Boat job?

A River Boat job involves working on a vessel that navigates rivers, typically for transportation, tourism, or cargo purposes. Responsibilities vary by role but may include operating the boat, maintaining equipment, serving passengers, or ensuring safety. Common positions include deckhands, captains, tour guides, and hospitality staff. Experience requirements depend on the specific job, with some roles requiring specialized licenses or certifications.

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

To thrive as a River Boat Captain or Operator, you need comprehensive knowledge of maritime navigation, vessel operation, and safety protocols, often supported by relevant licenses such as a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential. Familiarity with navigational and communication equipment, GPS systems, and emergency response tools is crucial. Outstanding customer service, leadership, and problem-solving skills distinguish successful river boat professionals. These skills are vital for ensuring the safe, efficient, and enjoyable operation of riverboat cruises or transport, while maintaining compliance with maritime regulations.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A river boat captain or operator can earn around $10,000 a month, especially with experience and certifications such as a captain's license. These roles typically require maritime knowledge, navigation skills, and safety training, and often involve working long hours on the water. High earnings are more common in commercial or luxury river cruises rather than casual or entry-level positions.

What boat jobs have the highest pay?

In the river boat industry, captain and chief engineer positions typically have the highest pay due to their leadership responsibilities and required certifications. These roles often require extensive experience, navigation skills, and sometimes specialized licenses, which contribute to higher compensation compared to other crew positions.

How do you get a job on a river barge?

To get a job on a river barge, candidates typically need relevant maritime or commercial boating experience, a valid transportation or maritime license, and physical fitness. Positions such as deckhand or engineer often require safety training and knowledge of navigation and cargo handling. Applying through shipping companies, maritime job boards, or industry networks is common.

How much do you make working on a riverboat?

Salaries for riverboat workers vary based on role, experience, and location. Deckhands and entry-level crew typically earn between $2,000 and $4,000 per month, while more experienced staff such as captains can earn $5,000 or more monthly. Compensation may also include tips and benefits depending on the employer and job responsibilities.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for a River Boat Captain or Operator?

A River Boat Captain or Operator oversees all aspects of vessel operation, including navigating the waterway, ensuring passenger and crew safety, and performing routine inspections and maintenance checks. Responsibilities often include communicating with crew members, monitoring weather and river conditions, and providing engaging information or customer service to passengers. Many river boat roles require overseeing boarding procedures and responding quickly to any operational or safety incidents. Working closely with deckhands, hospitality staff, and maintenance teams is typical to ensure smooth and enjoyable journeys. Successful Captains are highly attentive to details and prioritize a positive experience for both passengers and crew.

More about River Boat jobs
What cities are hiring for River Boat jobs? Cities with the most River Boat job openings:
What states have the most River Boat jobs? States with the most job openings for River Boat jobs include:
What job categories do people searching River Boat jobs look for? The top searched job categories for River Boat jobs are:
River Boat jobs near you
Infographic showing various River Boat job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

River Boat Pilot

Magnolia Marine Transport

Vicksburg, MS

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Location: Vicksburg, MS, USA

Description

Magnolia Marine Transport has an opening for a full-time Pilot to safely operate company vessels and tows in accordance with all applicable regulations and company policies.

We are a relationship-driven, family-owned company that values professionalism, leadership, and teamwork. Magnolia Marine Transport offers competitive pay, strong benefits, and maintains a small-company culture where each employee's contribution matters.

Pilot Qualifications

  • Must hold appropriate USCG Merchant Mariner Credentials for the assigned area of operation

  • Must possess a valid TWIC Card, Radio License, and Radar Observer Certificate, as required

  • Demonstrated time and experience with Magnolia Marine sufficient to establish competence and leadership ability

  • Working knowledge of USCG Rules and Regulations and company policies

  • Ability to exercise sound judgment in dynamic and potentially hazardous operating environments

Pilot Responsibilities Include the Following

  • Acts as second in command and is directly responsible to the Captain; represents the Captain when standing watch

  • Responsible, along with all crew members, for the safety of the vessel, crew, and tow, and for compliance with the Safety Management System

  • Navigates the vessel in full compliance with USCG regulations, company policies, and the vessel's Certificate of Inspection (COI), when applicable

  • Reports unsafe conditions, incidents, and nonconformities to the Captain and Port Captain, and takes appropriate action to prevent accidents

  • Has the authority to determine when unsafe conditions exist and may refuse a tow or navigational area deemed unsafe or presenting undue risk

  • Requests company assistance when necessary to ensure safe and compliant operations

  • While on watch, maintains responsibility for the safety and welfare of the vessel, crew, and tow; sounds alarms and summons the Captain if a dangerous situation develops

  • Stands watch in the pilothouse at all times, including when the vessel is tied up, except during dry-dock periods

  • Ensures all required logs and records are accurately completed during assigned watch

  • Communicates all pertinent operational information and incidents to the Captain in a timely manner

Benefits

Magnolia Marine Transport offers a competitive benefits package, including:

  • 401(k)

  • Health, Dental, and Life Insurance

  • Paid Holidays

  • Vacation and Sick Leave

  • Tuition Assistance

  • Profit Sharing

Equal Employment Opportunity

Magnolia Marine Transport is an EEO/AAP Employer. Employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment drug test and background check.

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