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River Towing information

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$11

$22

$40

How much do river towing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for river towing in the United States is $22.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between River Towing vs River Salvage?

AspectRiver TowingRiver Salvage
CredentialsCommercial boating licenses, towing certificationsSalvage licenses, specialized recovery certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-water towing of vessels, cargo, or debrisRescue operations, vessel recovery, and damage assessment
Employer & IndustryMarinas, towing companies, shipping industrySalvage companies, maritime rescue organizations
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

River Towing involves transporting vessels or cargo along waterways, focusing on moving or assisting vessels in transit. River Salvage centers on rescuing and recovering vessels or cargo after accidents or damage. While both roles operate on waterways and require maritime certifications, towing emphasizes transportation, whereas salvage emphasizes recovery and rescue operations.

What are river towing jobs?

River towing jobs involve operating or working on towboats and barges that move goods and materials along inland rivers, such as the Mississippi or Ohio River. Workers in these positions can include deckhands, pilots, captains, and engineers, all of whom play a role in safely navigating and transporting cargo. Duties typically include handling tow lines, maintaining equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. These jobs often require long hours, time away from home, and the ability to work in various weather conditions.

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

To thrive in River Towing, you need a solid understanding of navigation, vessel operations, and safety procedures, often backed by a Merchant Mariner Credential and relevant endorsements. Familiarity with marine radios, GPS navigation systems, radar, and towing equipment is crucial. Strong teamwork, problem-solving skills, and clear communication help ensure safe and efficient operations on the water. These abilities are vital for preventing accidents, managing challenging weather or river conditions, and ensuring timely cargo delivery.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in river towing operations?

River towing professionals often face challenges related to changing weather conditions, fluctuating river levels, and navigating around obstacles like bridges or narrow passages. Coordination with crew members and effective communication are crucial for safe operations, especially during night shifts or in high-traffic areas. Additionally, maintaining the mechanical integrity of towing vessels requires diligence and teamwork, as unexpected breakdowns can disrupt schedules and pose safety risks.
More about River Towing jobs
What states have the most River Towing jobs? States with the most job openings for River Towing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching River Towing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for River Towing jobs are:
River Towing jobs near you
Infographic showing various River Towing job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,000 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Wheelman - Conventional Steering

Wheelman - Conventional Steering

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Jeffersonville, IN

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Company: American Commercial Barge Line (ACBL)
Location: Inland River System (vessel-based)
Job Type: Full Time; Vessel Rotation

Schedule: Multiple rotations available, including 28/28, 28/14, 21/21, or 14/14. Wheelmen work 6 hours on / 6 hours off or 12hour watches depending on vessel needs.

Join American Commercial Barge Line as a Wheelman – Conventional Steering and play a vital role in safely navigating our towing vessels throughout the Inland River System. In this handson operational role, you will support the vessel’s safe transit, assist with navigational duties, monitor traffic and river conditions, and help the Captain/Pilot maintain a safe, compliant, and efficient working environment. If you are safetydriven, dedicated, and serious about a maritime career, this role offers excellent longterm opportunities.

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 back to 1915, when we began moving coal on the Kentucky River.

Whether you’re working aboard our vessels or supporting operations on shore, ACBL is always looking for top talent to join our team.

What you will be doing... Your IMPACT 

  • Operate conventional steering equipment safely and effectively under the direction of the Captain or Pilot.
  • Maintain situational awareness of river conditions, traffic, aids to navigation, and potential hazards.
  • Assist with safe navigation by following established routes, wheel orders, and company procedures.
  • Support crew communication by relaying information between the wheelhouse, deck crew, locks, and shore personnel.
  • Monitor vessel equipment, steering systems, and alarms during watch standing.
  • Assist with barge maneuvers, fleet operations, and tow configuration as needed.
  • Complete accurate log entries, documentation, and radio communications.
  • Comply with company policies, safety practices, and U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
  • Participate in drills, safety meetings, and crew endurance management practices.
  • Performs all other duties as assigned.

What we are looking for...

You will need to have: 

  • Must meet USCG physical examination requirements
  • Must maintain valid USCG licensing appropriate for role
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to/from vessels or training locations
  • Ability to work one of the following schedules: 28/28, 28/14, 21/21, or 14/14
  • Ability to work 6/6 or 12hour watches
  • Prior experience working aboard towing vessels preferred
  • Ability to climb steep stairs, stand or sit for extended periods, and work in all weather conditions
  • Ability to ride in or pilot a crew boat or zodiac to access the vessel
  • Active TWIC required 

Even better if you have:

  • Experience with conventional steering systems on inland towing vessels
  • Experience working on the Inland River System or ICW
  • Strong communication skills and situational awareness
  • Commitment to safe operations and teamwork

        Apply