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Tow Boat Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CRH

Boat Pilot

Belpre, OH · On-site

Ability to complete necessary tow boat operation documentation which could include but is not ... Boat Pilot licensure required. If individual does not currently hold this licensure, must have the ...

CRH

Boat Pilot

Belpre, OH · On-site

Ability to complete necessary tow boat operation documentation which could include but is not ... Boat Pilot licensure required. If individual does not currently hold this licensure, must have the ...

Ergon, Inc

Fuel Boat Pilot

East Alton, IL · On-site

Fuel Boat Pilot Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a Fuel Boat Pilot at its ... Inspect all areas of the vessel and tow to ensure safety, proper maintenance, and a clean vessel is ...

Ergon, Inc

Fuel Boat Pilot

East Alton, IL · On-site

Fuel Boat Pilot Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a Fuel Boat Pilot at its ... Inspect all areas of the vessel and tow to ensure safety, proper maintenance, and a clean vessel is ...

Ergon, Inc.

Fuel Boat Pilot

Wood River, IL · On-site

Fuel Boat Pilot Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a FuelBoat Pilot at its ... Inspect all areas of the vessel and tow to ensure safety, proper maintenance, and a clean vessel is ...

Ergon, Inc

Fuel Boat Pilot

East Alton, IL · On-site

Inspect all areas of the vessel and tow to ensure safety, proper maintenance, and a clean vessel is ... Fuel Boat Pilot Qualifications:High School Diploma or GEDMust have a U.S. Coast Guard license as ...

ENSTRUCTURE LLC

Harbor Pilot (Boat Pilot)

Memphis, TN · On-site

The Tow Boat Pilot is responsible for assisting in all aspects of the loading and unloading cargo off barges. 12-hr shifts, home daily. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES : * Responsible for the ...

Terral RiverService

BOAT PILOT

Channelview, TX · On-site

Responsible for crew safety, vessel and tow operations through use of Terral RiverService, Inc ... Boat Pilot. Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and ...

TerralRiver Service

BOAT PILOT

Lettsworth, LA · On-site

Responsible for crew safety, vessel and tow operations through use of Terral RiverService, Inc ... Boat Pilot. Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and ...

Terral River Service Inc

BOAT PILOT

Channelview, TX · On-site

Responsible for crew safety, vessel and tow operations through use of Terral RiverService, Inc ... Boat Pilot. Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and ...

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Tow Boat Pilot information

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$11

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$40

How much do tow boat pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for tow boat pilot 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 a tow boat pilot?

Tow boat pilots are licensed professionals responsible for navigating and operating towboats that move barges and other vessels along rivers, canals, and other inland waterways. They ensure the safe transport of cargo by maneuvering large, connected groups of barges through busy or narrow water channels. Tow boat pilots must be skilled in navigation, communication, and emergency procedures, often working long shifts in varying weather conditions. Their work is critical to the transportation of goods such as coal, grain, and other bulk materials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tow boat pilot?

To thrive as a Tow Boat Pilot, you need a thorough understanding of navigation, vessel operations, and maritime regulations, typically backed by a U.S. Coast Guard license and relevant experience on inland waterways. Familiarity with radar, GPS navigation systems, and communication equipment is essential for safe and efficient vessel control. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and effective leadership are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe transport, crew safety, and compliance with maritime laws in challenging environments.

What are some common challenges faced by tow boat pilots during long river trips?

Tow Boat Pilots often encounter challenges such as navigating changing river conditions, managing fatigue during extended shifts, and maintaining clear communication with crew members and other vessels. Inclement weather, fluctuating water levels, and river traffic can require quick decision-making and adaptability. Pilots must also ensure compliance with safety regulations and coordinate closely with deckhands to ensure the safe movement of cargo.

What is the difference between Tow Boat Pilot vs Marine Deckhand?

AspectTow Boat PilotMarine Deckhand
CredentialsLicenses such as USCG license, maritime certificationsBasic maritime safety and operational certifications
Work EnvironmentOperate and navigate tow boats, often in inland or coastal watersAssist with vessel maintenance, mooring, and deck operations
Employer & IndustryMaritime towing companies, shipping, and logisticsMaritime vessels, shipping companies, port operations
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The Tow Boat Pilot and Marine Deckhand roles both operate within the maritime industry, but the Tow Boat Pilot is responsible for navigating and operating tow boats, requiring specific licenses and extensive experience. The Marine Deckhand assists with deck operations and maintenance, typically requiring fewer certifications. While both roles work in maritime environments, the Tow Boat Pilot holds a more advanced position focused on navigation and vessel control.

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What cities are hiring for Tow Boat Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Tow Boat Pilot job openings:

What states have the most Tow Boat Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Tow Boat Pilot jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Tow Boat Pilot jobs?

For Tow Boat Pilot jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Tow Boat Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tow Boat Pilot job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $46,000 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Boat Pilot

Belpre, OH • On-site

CRH
Construction Materials Wholesalers • 10K+ employees
Learn more about CRHexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate a tow boat to position and move barges along the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers.

  • Oversee the Deck Hand Laborer working on the tow boat and communicate maintenance needs to the Operations Manager.

  • Complete necessary tow boat operation documentation such as tow logs, safety logs, and equipment hours reports.

Job description

Boat Pilot
AMAT
Belpre, Ohio, United States
Job ID: 526104
The Shelly Company, a CRH company, is a vertically integrated supplier of aggregates, asphalt, ready mix concrete and paving services throughout the state of Ohio. Our commitment to quality drives us to use the most modern, efficient and environmentally friendly technology in our industry. The Shelly Company is known throughout the industry for innovation, quality and for our commitment to safety.
Position Overview
The Boat Pilot will be responsible for operating a tow boat to position and move barges along the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers, as well as other miscellaneous work that needs to be performed.
Key Responsibilities (Essential Duties and Functions)
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
  • Ability to safely and efficiently operate a tow boat and move barges along the river.
  • Responsible for overseeing the Deck Hand Laborer that works on the tow boat.
  • Ability to complete necessary tow boat operation documentation which could include but is not limited to: tow logs, safety logs, equipment hours report.
  • Ability to detect safety hazards and equipment malfunctions and respond accordingly.
  • Ability to communicate maintenance needs to Operations Manager.
  • Other duties as assigned by management.

Other Requirements:
  • Display a professional and courteous attitude to co-workers, supervisors, and the general public at all times.
  • Must be willing to travel and work away from home when required.
  • Must be willing to work nights and weekends when necessary.
  • Report to the assigned job site ready to begin work at the designated start time.
  • Strict adherence to safety requirements and procedures as outlined in the Manual of Safety Practices and Procedures.
  • Strict adherence to Shelly Company policies and procedures as outlined in the Company Book of Policies.
  • Willingness to work in a team environment and assist co-workers or supervisors with other duties as required.
  • Timely and regular attendance is an expectation of performance for all Shelly Company employees. Employees will be held accountable for adhering to their workplace schedule.
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to effectively problem solve.

Qualifications:
Individuals must possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities or be able to explain and demonstrate that they can perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation, using some combination of skills and abilities.
Education and Experience
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED) required.
  • 2 or more years of Boat Pilot experience preferred.
  • Boat Pilot licensure required. If individual does not currently hold this licensure, must have the ability to obtain it within designated time frame.

Language Skills
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients and other employees of the organization.

Mathematical Skills
  • Ability to perform basic mathematical skills.

Reasoning Ability
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral or diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; climb or balance at heights up to 60 feet from ground level. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 105 pounds.
Working Conditions:
The boat pilot will be working in varying weather conditions, in dust and noisy areas. Substantial walking, bending, stooping, lifting or working in awkward or strained positions. Some hazard involved due to working in and around machinery. Boat pilot will be asked to work overtime as well as some weekends.
The statements included in this job description are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria necessary to successfully perform the job. Other duties may be assigned as required. Requirements for this job are subject to modification by the Company and its designees, and reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
What CRH Offers You
  • Highly competitive base pay
  • Comprehensive medical, dental and disability benefits programs
  • Group retirement savings program
  • Health and wellness programs
  • An inclusive culture that values opportunity for growth, development, and internal promotion

About CRH
CRH has a long and proud heritage. We are a collection of hundreds of family businesses, regional companies and large enterprises that together form the CRH family. CRH operates in a decentralized, diversified structure that allows you to work in a small company environment while having the career opportunities of a large international organization.
If you're up for a rewarding challenge, we invite you to take the first step and apply today! Once you click apply now, you will be brought to our official employment application. Please complete your online profile and it will be sent to the hiring manager. Our system allows you to view and track your status 24 hours a day. Thank you for your interest!
The Shelly Company, a CRH Company, is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer.
EOE/Vet/Disability
CRH is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.
AI tools may be used in certain stages of the employment lifecycle, such as candidate review; however, all final employment decisions will be made by a person.
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About CRH

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CRH has a long and proud heritage as one of North America's largest corporations. We are a proud reflection of the hundreds of family businesses, local and regional companies and mid to large sized enterprises that together form the CRH family. CRH operates with a decentralized, diversified structure, letting you work in a small company environment while having the career opportunities of a large enterprise.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

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