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River Pilot Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Canal Barge Company

Vessel Pilot

Inland, NE · On-site

We believe CBC's Mississippi River transportation system is among the most efficient and most environmentally friendly methods of transporting cargo within the United States. CBC Pilots work on our ...

Illinois Marine Towing

Vessel Pilot

Inland, NE · On-site

Pilot of Towing Vessels, at minimum, with endorsements for Western Rivers, Great Lakes, and Inland Waters preferred. 2. Possess a minimum of a High School Diploma or equivalent. 3. Exhibit a ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Kearney, NE · On-site

$3.0K/wk

Nestled along the Platte River, Kearney boasts a rich history as a pioneering railroad hub, and ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Kearney, NE

$3.0K/wk

Nestled along the Platte River, Kearney boasts a rich history as a pioneering railroad hub, and ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Kearney, NE · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Nestled along the Platte River, Kearney boasts a rich history as a pioneering railroad hub, and ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Kearney, NE

$82K - $93K/yr

Nestled along the Platte River, Kearney boasts a rich history as a pioneering railroad hub, and ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Kearney, NE

$82K - $93K/yr

Nestled along the Platte River, Kearney boasts a rich history as a pioneering railroad hub, and ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

North Platte, NE · On-site

$20K/mo

The Platte River offers beautiful views and outdoor recreation, while community events like ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods Pilots

Pilot Fixed Wing

North Platte, NE · On-site

$3.0K/wk

North Platte also offers easy access to outdoor recreation along the Platte River and nearby Lake ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

North Platte, NE

$20K/mo

The Platte River offers beautiful views and outdoor recreation, while community events like ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

North Platte, NE

$82K - $93K/yr

The Platte River offers beautiful views and outdoor recreation, while community events like ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

North Platte, NE · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

The Platte River offers beautiful views and outdoor recreation, while community events like ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

North Platte, NE

$82K - $93K/yr

The Platte River offers beautiful views and outdoor recreation, while community events like ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods

Pilot Fixed Wing

North Platte, NE

$3.0K/wk

North Platte also offers easy access to outdoor recreation along the Platte River and nearby Lake ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods

Pilot Fixed Wing

North Platte, NE

$82K - $93K/mo

North Platte also offers easy access to outdoor recreation along the Platte River and nearby Lake ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods

Pilot Fixed Wing

North Platte, NE

$3.0K/wk

North Platte also offers easy access to outdoor recreation along the Platte River and nearby Lake ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods

Pilot Fixed Wing

North Platte, NE · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

North Platte also offers easy access to outdoor recreation along the Platte River and nearby Lake ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

All JobsRiver Pilot JobsRiver Pilot Jobs in Nebraska

River Pilot information

What is a river pilot?

River pilots are highly trained mariners who specialize in navigating ships and large vessels through river systems, often in areas that are challenging due to shallow waters, narrow channels, strong currents, or heavy traffic. They have extensive knowledge of local waterways, tides, weather, and regulations, and are responsible for ensuring the safe passage of vessels to and from ports. River pilots board ships to guide the captain and crew, using their expertise to avoid hazards and comply with local navigation laws.

What does a river pilot do?

A river pilot steers boats on inland waterways. As a river pilot, your duties focus on guiding a vessel up and down rivers. Some pilots drive a riverboat or tugboat, while others take over for captains on ocean-going vessels when they enter river systems. In these cases, you stay onshore and travel to each ship as it sits at the mouth of the river. Sometimes, your responsibilities involve taking a boat into a harbor that is on a river near the ocean. While piloting any ship, you are in charge of all crew members and must work to ensure their safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a river pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a River Pilot, you need expert knowledge of river navigation, vessel handling, and local waterways, typically supported by a relevant license such as a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential. Familiarity with navigational aids, radar, GPS, and electronic chart systems is crucial for safe and efficient piloting. Exceptional situational awareness, decision-making, and communication skills help manage dynamic river conditions and coordinate with crews and authorities. These competencies are vital for ensuring the safe transit of vessels, protecting cargo, and maintaining environmental and operational safety.

What are some common challenges faced by river pilots, and how do they typically overcome them?

River pilots often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing river conditions, unpredictable weather, and navigating through congested or narrow waterways. To overcome these obstacles, they rely on their extensive local knowledge, ongoing training, and strong communication with the crew and other vessels. Staying updated on river charts, water levels, and regulations is essential, and collaboration with the harbor master and port authorities helps ensure safe passage. Adaptability and quick decision-making are key skills that help river pilots handle unexpected situations effectively.

What is the difference between River Pilot vs Marine Pilot?

AspectRiver PilotMarine Pilot
CertificationsRiver pilot licenses, maritime certificationsMarine pilot licenses, maritime certifications
Work EnvironmentRivers, inland waterwaysOpen sea, coastal areas
Industry UsageNavigation of inland vessels and bargesNavigation of ships in ports and open waters
Common Search/ComparisonRiver Pilot vs Marine Pilot

River pilots and marine pilots both require maritime certifications and play crucial roles in navigation. River pilots specialize in inland waterways and rivers, guiding vessels through confined and shallow areas. Marine pilots operate in ports and open seas, assisting ships in navigating complex port entrances and coastal waters. While their certifications overlap, their work environments and specific responsibilities differ significantly, making each role essential in different maritime contexts.

How much money does a river pilot make?

River pilots typically earn between $100,000 and $200,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of vessels they guide. They often work long hours and require specialized certifications and knowledge of local waterways.
More about River Pilot jobs

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River Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various River Pilot job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Vessel Pilot

Canal Barge Company

Inland, NE • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

CANAL BARGE COMPANY

JOB DESCRIPTION

VESSEL PILOT

*Candidates will be considered for wheelhouse positions for both Canal Barge and Marquette Gulf Inland opportunities.*

Preferred application process would be to apply at:

https://jobs.dayforcehcm.com/en-US/marquette/CANDIDATEPORTAL/jobs/607

And selecting: Gulf Inland Division.

*Multiple schedules offered!*

Canal Barge is a leading company in the inland marine industry with a history of steady growth and exceptional human & environmental safety record. We believe CBC's Mississippi River transportation system is among the most efficient and most environmentally friendly methods of transporting cargo within the United States. CBC Pilots work on our Fleet of Inland Towing Vessels. Extensive orientation and training is provided; all Pilots must possess a current U.S. Coast Guard license for Master or Pilot of Towing Vessels that is applicable for the vessel, route, and service.

Qualified candidates must be safety conscious and able to work in a physically demanding environment. Pilots are required to work onboard for a multi-week hitch, with travel reimbursement provided. All applicants must have favorable work references and a valid driver's license, and must be able to pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screen.


I. Primary Job Duties

  • Navigate the vessel and tow safely and efficiently while on watch

  • Supervise crew members and ensure that they are properly trained to perform their job duties safely

  • Ensure that all barges are in navigable condition

  • Complete required logs and reports

  • Apply all safety rules and regulations


II. Physical Requirements

Physical requirements include (but not limited to):

  • Repetitive bending, stooping and twisting

  • Climbing ladders and stairs

  • Must be able to push and pull 50lbs

  • Must be able to lift 50lbs

  • Able to board and ride in a skiff


III. Benefits of Joining Canal Barge Company

  • Competitive Health, Disability, Dental, and Life Insurance

  • 401K Savings Plan with company match

  • Crew changes from home to vessel paid for by CBC

Canal Barge Company and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers - All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

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