Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the ... Boat Maintenance Vessel Training * Be prepared to respond to emergencies, including engine room ...
Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the ... Boat Maintenance Vessel Training * Be prepared to respond to emergencies, including engine room ...
Vessel Chief Engineer
Paducah, KY · On-site
Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the ... Boat Maintenance Vessel Training * Be prepared to respond to emergencies, including engine room ...
Vessel Chief Engineer
Paducah, KY · On-site
Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the ... Boat Maintenance Vessel Training * Be prepared to respond to emergencies, including engine room ...
Vessel Chief Engineer
Cairo, IL · On-site
Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the ... Boat Maintenance Vessel Training * Be prepared to respond to emergencies, including engine room ...
Vessel Chief Engineer
Cairo, IL · On-site
Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the ... Boat Maintenance Vessel Training * Be prepared to respond to emergencies, including engine room ...
Vessel Chief Engineer
Saint Louis, MO · On-site
Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the ... Boat Maintenance Vessel Training * Be prepared to respond to emergencies, including engine room ...
Vessel Chief Engineer
Saint Louis, MO · On-site
Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the ... Boat Maintenance Vessel Training * Be prepared to respond to emergencies, including engine room ...
Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the ... Boat Maintenance Vessel Training * Be prepared to respond to emergencies, including engine room ...
Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the ... Boat Maintenance Vessel Training * Be prepared to respond to emergencies, including engine room ...
Fleet Captain - Ottawa, IL
Ottawa, IL · On-site
$480 - $510/hr
ADM is seeking a licensed mariner to Captain and supervise a tug boat at our American River ... engineering and reporting any deficienciesSupervises vessel staff and, under the direction of the ...
Fleet Captain - Ottawa, IL
Ottawa, IL · On-site
$480 - $510/hr
ADM is seeking a licensed mariner to Captain and supervise a tug boat at our American River ... engineering and reporting any deficienciesSupervises vessel staff and, under the direction of the ...
Fleet Captain - Ottawa, IL
Ottawa, IL · On-site
$480 - $510/day
ADM is seeking a licensed mariner to Captain and supervise a tug boat at our American River ... Responsible for up-keeping regular vessel housekeeping, maintenance and engineering and reporting ...
Fleet Captain - Ottawa, IL
Ottawa, IL · On-site
$480 - $510/day
ADM is seeking a licensed mariner to Captain and supervise a tug boat at our American River ... Responsible for up-keeping regular vessel housekeeping, maintenance and engineering and reporting ...
Captain
Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site
... Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. Captains are responsible for safe ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
Captain
Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site
... Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. Captains are responsible for safe ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
... Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. Captains are responsible for safe ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
... Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. Captains are responsible for safe ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
Vessel Mechanic
Lettsworth, LA · On-site
$24 - $28.50/hr
This position reports to the Port Engineer. Essential Job Functions: * Record and maintain ... General knowledge of marine equipment, engines, and boat systems is preferred. * MUST be self ...
Vessel Mechanic
Lettsworth, LA · On-site
$24 - $28.50/hr
This position reports to the Port Engineer. Essential Job Functions: * Record and maintain ... General knowledge of marine equipment, engines, and boat systems is preferred. * MUST be self ...
This position reports to the Port Engineer. Essential Job Functions: * Record and maintain ... General knowledge of marine equipment, engines, and boat systems is preferred. * MUST be self ...
This position reports to the Port Engineer. Essential Job Functions: * Record and maintain ... General knowledge of marine equipment, engines, and boat systems is preferred. * MUST be self ...
Captain
Bucksport, ME · On-site
... Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern vessels accommodate 100 to 200 guests designed for safe ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
Captain
Bucksport, ME · On-site
... Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern vessels accommodate 100 to 200 guests designed for safe ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
Captain
Port Canaveral, FL · On-site
Snake Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
Captain
Port Canaveral, FL · On-site
Snake Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
Captain
Moundsville, WV · On-site
Snake Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
Captain
Moundsville, WV · On-site
Snake Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
Captain
Bar Harbor, ME · On-site
Snake Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
Captain
Bar Harbor, ME · On-site
Snake Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
Captain
Bangor, ME · On-site
... Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern vessels accommodate 100 to 200 guests designed for safe ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
Captain
Bangor, ME · On-site
... Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern vessels accommodate 100 to 200 guests designed for safe ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
Captain
Point Pleasant, WV · On-site
Snake Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
Captain
Point Pleasant, WV · On-site
Snake Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
Captain
Norfolk, VA · On-site
... Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern vessels accommodate 100 to 200 guests designed for safe ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
Captain
Norfolk, VA · On-site
... Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern vessels accommodate 100 to 200 guests designed for safe ... Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support hotel and culinary teams in ...
River Boat Engineer information
See salary details
$9.13 - $14.42
13% of jobs
$18.57 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.42 - $19.71
16% of jobs
$19.71 - $25
7% of jobs
$25 - $30.29
6% of jobs
The median wage is $31.88 / hr.
$30.29 - $35.58
26% of jobs
$35.58 - $40.87
6% of jobs
$41.05 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$40.87 - $46.15
7% of jobs
$46.15 - $51.44
11% of jobs
$51.44 - $56.73
4% of jobs
$56.73 - $62.02
2% of jobs
$62.02 - $67.31
1% of jobs
$9
$33
$67
How much do river boat engineer jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for river boat engineer in the United States is $33.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $44.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a river boat engineer?
To thrive as a River Boat Engineer, you need strong mechanical aptitude, knowledge of marine engines and hydraulics, and relevant certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) or relevant Coast Guard endorsements. Familiarity with marine diagnostic tools, navigation systems, and safety protocols is essential for daily operations and maintenance. Problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and teamwork are critical soft skills for ensuring smooth vessel operation and effective communication with the crew. These skills and qualifications are vital to maintaining safety, preventing breakdowns, and ensuring efficient riverboat performance.
What are some common challenges river boat engineers face during routine operations?
River Boat Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining equipment reliability in varying weather conditions and responding quickly to unexpected mechanical issues while on the water. They must also manage regular inspections and preventive maintenance to ensure compliance with safety regulations and minimize downtime. Collaboration with the captain and deck crew is essential, especially when troubleshooting engine problems or coordinating repairs during active voyages. Staying adaptable and attentive to detail helps River Boat Engineers maintain smooth operations and passenger safety.
What is the difference between River Boat Engineer vs Marine Engineer?
| Aspect | River Boat Engineer | Marine Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | STCW certification, boat-specific licenses | STCW certification, marine engineering licenses |
| Work Environment | Rivers, inland waterways, small to medium vessels | Oceans, large ships, offshore platforms |
| Employer & Industry | River cruise lines, inland shipping companies | Shipping lines, offshore oil & gas, naval vessels |
River Boat Engineers focus on maintaining and repairing vessels operating on inland waterways, requiring specific certifications for river navigation. Marine Engineers work on larger ships and offshore platforms, often in oceanic environments, with broader marine engineering credentials. Both roles involve mechanical and technical skills but differ mainly in work setting and vessel type.
What is a river boat engineer?
River boat engineers are specialized professionals responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing the mechanical and electrical systems of vessels that travel on rivers. They ensure that engines, propulsion systems, and auxiliary equipment are functioning safely and efficiently throughout the journey. Their duties often include performing routine inspections, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and complying with safety and environmental regulations. River boat engineers play a crucial role in the safe and smooth operation of passenger and cargo vessels on inland waterways.
More about River Boat Engineer jobs
What states have the most River Boat Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for River Boat Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching River Boat Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for River Boat Engineer jobs are:
Full-time
Retirement
Re-posted 9 days ago
American Commercial Barge Line rating
8.1
Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
Job Title: Vessel Chief Engineer
Company: American Commercial Barge Line
Location: Memphis, TN; St Louis, MO; Cairo, IL; Paducah, KY; Harahan, LA; Convent, LA
Job Type: Full-Time (28/28 rotation)
American Commercial Barge Line is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Vessel Chief Engineer to join our maritime team. As a Chief Engineer, you will be responsible for the efficient operation and maintenance of our vessel's propulsion systems, machinery, and equipment. If you are a dedicated maritime professional with a proven track record of excellence, we invite you to apply for this exciting and rewarding opportunity.
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
- Oversee the daily operations of the vessel's engine room, ensuring the safe and efficient functioning of all machinery and systems.
- Plan and execute routine maintenance, repairs, and inspections of all engine room equipment and systems, including engines, generators, pumps, and auxiliary machinery.
- Report accurately the fuel, water, lube status, and consumption to the wheelhouse daily.
- Ensure strict adherence to safety procedures and regulations, including the use of personal protective equipment, and conduct safety drills and training for the engine room crew.
- Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, spare parts inventory, and equipment performance. Prepare reports as required by regulatory authorities.
- Ensure that the engineer trainee assigned to the vessel receives maximum exposure to and instruction in a wide variety of engineering duties and report progress to the Mgr. of Boat Maintenance Vessel Training
- Be prepared to respond to emergencies, including engine room fires, equipment failures, and other critical situations, following established emergency procedures.
What we are looking for...
You will need to have:
- High School Diploma or GED.
- 3+ years of experience with electronic engines (CAT, GE or EMD 710)
- Valid driver’s license.
- Strong communication skills, verbal and written.
- Manage Maintenance Inventory
- Must possess the ability to work independently and with sense of urgency.
- Maintain an active TWIC.
- Proficiency in operating and maintaining vessel propulsion systems, including diesel engines and power generation systems.
- Strong knowledge of safety regulations and procedures related to engine room operations.
- Excellent leadership and communication skills.
- Ability to work well under pressure and make sound decisions in emergency situations.
- Familiarity with environmental regulations and best practices for reducing a vessel's environmental impact.
- Physical fitness and the ability to perform physically demanding tasks.
- Commitment to maintaining a clean and safe engine room.
Even better if you have:
- Vocational training or US Coast Guard License.
- Experience with electronic engines (CAT, GE or EMD 710)
Reasons you will love working at ACBL …
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunity for career growth within our maritime division.
- Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
- Safety-oriented work culture.
- 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
- Employee Assistance Program.
- Well-maintained vessels and equipment.
What American Commercial Barge Line employees say
Pay
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About American Commercial Barge Line
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Transportation and warehousing
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Jeffersonville, IN, US
Year founded
1915