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Tankerman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BUFFALO MARINE SERVICE INC

Tankerman

Houston, TX · On-site

$60K/yr

General Job Responsibilities The Tankerman is responsible for the safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant operation of assigned area. Employee's key responsibilities include, but are ...

BUFFALO MARINE SERVICE INC

Tankerman

Houston, TX

$60K/yr

General Job Responsibilities The Tankerman is responsible for the safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant operation of assigned area. Employee's key responsibilities include, but are ...

Magnolia Marine Transport Company

Tankerman

Vicksburg, MS

$61K/yr

Tankerman Duties and responsibilities include but not limited to: serving a maritime work schedule of thirty days aboard a vessel along with fifteen off; conducting cargo transfers; typical deck work ...

Southern Devall Towing Co

Tankerman

Sulphur, LA · On-site

$255 - $350/day

Southern Devall (Louisiana) is currently looking for both LG and/or DL Tankerman. Southern Devall bring over 120 years of experienced back by more than 230 barges, 70 towboats and the expertise of ...

Terral River Service Inc

TANKERMAN

Channelview, TX

$21.50 - $25/hr

The TRS Tankerman is responsible for safely preparing barges for the loading and discharging of cargoes and as well, perform all loading and discharging activities, connecting and disconnecting of ...

Blessey Marine Services

Tankerman

Harahan, LA

$22.25 - $25.75/hr

Tankerman DEPARTMENT: Vessel FLSA STATUS: Exempt SUPERVISION: Reports to: Captain, Relief Captain and Pilot Supervises: This position has no supervisory responsibilities. SUMMARY DESCRIPTION:

TerralRiver Service

TANKERMAN

Channelview, TX · On-site

$21.50 - $25/hr

The TRS Tankerman is responsible for safely preparing barges for the loading and discharging of cargoes and as well, perform all loading and discharging activities, connecting and disconnecting of ...

Terral RiverService

TANKERMAN

Channelview, TX · On-site

$21.50 - $25/hr

The TRS Tankerman is responsible for safely preparing barges for the loading and discharging of cargoes and as well, perform all loading and discharging activities, connecting and disconnecting of ...

D&S MARINE SERVICE LLC

Tankerman

Gray, LA · On-site

Tankerman job duties include but not limited to: * Prepare barges that are assigned to his boat for safe and complete loading or discharging of oil, refined, and petrochemical cargoes, and/or vapor ...

D & S MARINE, INC.

Tankerman

Gray, LA

Tankerman job duties include but not limited to: * Prepare barges that are assigned to his boat for safe and complete loading or discharging of oil, refined, and petrochemical cargoes, and/or vapor ...

Blessey Marine

Bunker Tankerman

Harahan, LA · On-site

$23 - $26.75/hr

Bunker Tankerman DEPARTMENT: Vessel FLSA STATUS: Exempt SUPERVISION: Reports to: Captain, Relief Captain and Pilot SUMMARY DESCRIPTION: Responsible for the safe, efficient, reliable, and ...

Marathon Petroleum

Marine Tankerman

Industry, PA

$24.50 - $28.50/hr

Tankerman are critical members of the Tankering Services Group, and we are looking for individuals who can contribute to our inclusive work environment. Tankerman are responsible for safely and ...

D&S Marine Service

Tankerman

Gray, LA · On-site

$23.75 - $27.75/hr

The job of a tankerman includes, but is not limited to: * Cargo transfer operations * Securing barges * Line handling * General boat cleaning * Minor engine room work * Painting * Cooking Our ...

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Tankerman information

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$13

$26

$38

How much do tankerman jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for tankerman in the United States is $26.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do tankermans get paid?

Tankermen typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. Salaries can increase with additional skills such as cargo handling and safety training, and often include benefits like overtime pay and per diem for offshore work.

What are typical work schedules and living conditions like for a Tankerman on inland or coastal vessels?

Tankermen often work in rotating shifts that can range from several days to weeks on board, followed by similar periods off. Living conditions on vessels are typically communal, with shared sleeping quarters and limited personal space, so adaptability and strong communication skills are important. The work can be physically demanding and requires adherence to strict safety and environmental protocols, but it also offers a structured routine and opportunities for advancement into supervisory or training roles. Teamwork is essential, as Tankermen collaborate closely with crew members and shore-based personnel during cargo operations.

What Does a Tankerman Do?

As a tankerman, your duties involve overseeing the transfer and transport of liquid cargo on a barge, ship, or specialized tankboat. The primary responsibilities of a tankerman (variously referred to as an able-bodied tankerman or AB tankerman) are to ensure the safety of crew during loading and transport of the liquid freight. You may work with hazardous materials such as gases and other potentially explosive or toxic substances. You are responsible for inspecting and maintaining liquid transfer equipment onboard and onshore.

What are Tankermen?

Tankermen are specialized maritime professionals responsible for the safe transfer of liquid cargo—such as oil, chemicals, or hazardous materials—on tank vessels like barges and ships. Their duties include operating pumps, supervising loading and unloading processes, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and maintaining equipment. Tankermen must be highly trained and typically require certification, as their work is critical to preventing spills and accidents during cargo operations.

What is the difference between Tankerman vs Deckhand?

AspectTankermanDeckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, Tankerman CertificationSTCW Basic Safety Training, Basic Deckhand Certification
Work EnvironmentTank barges, tankers, chemical shipsGeneral cargo ships, tankers, offshore vessels
Job ResponsibilitiesHandling, transferring, and securing liquid cargoesGeneral deck duties, cargo handling, maintenance

Tankermen specialize in handling liquid cargoes and require specific certifications related to tank operations. Deckhands perform broader deck duties across various vessel types. While both roles work in maritime environments, Tankermen focus on cargo transfer safety and procedures, making their skills more specialized compared to Deckhands.

What is the job of a tankerman?

A tankerman is responsible for loading, unloading, and transferring liquid cargo, such as petroleum or chemicals, on tank ships or barges. The role requires knowledge of safety procedures, proper handling of hazardous materials, and often involves certifications like STCW or Tankerman licenses. They work in marine environments and may operate specialized equipment to ensure safe cargo transfer.

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

To thrive as a Tankerman, you need specialized knowledge in liquid cargo handling, safety protocols, and marine regulations, generally supported by a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a Tankerman endorsement. Familiarity with cargo transfer systems, pumps, hoses, and relevant safety equipment is essential, along with compliance training such as HAZMAT and OSHA standards. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for safe, efficient cargo operations and to prevent environmental incidents or workplace accidents.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Tankermen, who handle liquid cargo on ships, can earn around $10,000 or more per month with experience and certifications such as STCW. High-paying roles in sales, real estate, or skilled trades like commercial diving or offshore drilling also offer similar earnings without requiring a college degree, often relying on skills, licenses, and experience. These jobs typically involve physical work, specialized training, or certifications rather than formal education.

Is it hard to become a tankerman?

Becoming a tankerman requires completing specific training, obtaining a Merchant Mariner Credential with a Tankerman endorsement, and gaining experience in handling flammable liquids. The process involves safety courses, background checks, and sometimes physical exams, making it moderately challenging but achievable with proper preparation.
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Tankerman jobs near you
Tankerman

Tankerman

BUFFALO MARINE SERVICE INC

Houston, TX • On-site

$60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

General Job Responsibilities
The Tankerman is responsible for the safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant operation of assigned area. Employee's key responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • The primary function on the Tankerman is to prepare the barges that are assigned to his boat for safe and complete loading and discharging of oil, refined, and petrochemical barges.
  • The Tankerman must be able to make certain that any and all federal and state required documents that must accompany the barges are on board and in proper order.
  • The Tankerman must be able to communicate with dock personnel and ensure that each person participating in the transfer of the product understands what the product is and how it should be transferred and protected.
  • The Tankerman must be able to participate in the maintenance of the boat and barges, and help with the training of newly hired employees aspiring to become Tankerman.
  • The Tankerman must be able to handle lines and rigging during tow building, locking, and docking activities.
  • The Tankerman must be able to work a rotating six hours on and six hours off watch schedule, and occasionally work different hours not to exceed sixteen consecutive hours without rest.
  • The Tankerman must be able to work on the boat with a schedule based on a ratio of 2 to 1 (i.e. 20 days on, 10 days off or 28 days on, 14 days off).
  • The Tankerman must be able to wear a negative or positive respirator, PVC foul weather gear, rubber gloves and boots to protect himself from harmful cargo contact.
  • The Tankerman must be able to wear a 5-minute escape pack, or a negative pressure respirator, or a supplied airline respirator.
  • The Tankerman must be able to drive to and from hub cities.
  • The Tankerman must be able to perform all duties necessary to navigate locks.
  • The Tankerman must be able to adhere to all company policies, United States Coast Guard and environmental regulations.

Education and License Requirements
Employee must:
  • Have a high school diploma or GED
  • Possess a valid, current Merchant Mariners Document with a Tankermans' endorsement for Grade B liquid cargos and under (46 CFR 12.20 et seq.) and a current and valid driver's license. The Tankerman endorsement applies to vessel's Tankerman exclusively engaged in petroleum or chemical transportation
  • Be able to pass certification requirements of 46 CFR Part 197 Subpart C - Benzene. This applies to vessel Tankerman exclusively engaged in petroleum and/ or chemical transportation

Bunker Tankerman work a 14/7 rotation and Line Haul Tankerman work a 20/10 rotation.

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