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Tow Boat Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Godfrey Marine

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$100K - $133K/yr

Ability to tow and drive boats is a desire, but training will be involved * Good working knowledge of design and mechanical capabilities of common boat building materials * NMMA Compliance Specialist ...

All JobsTow Boat JobsTow Boat Jobs in Indiana

Tow Boat information

See Indiana salary details

$11

$21

$38

How much do tow boat jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for tow boat in Indiana is $21.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $22.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tow boat?

A tow boat job involves operating or working on a vessel designed to push or pull barges and other watercraft on rivers, lakes, or coastal waters. Crew members may include captains, deckhands, engineers, and mates, each responsible for navigation, maintenance, and cargo transport. These roles require physical labor, long shifts, and extended time away from home. Tow boat jobs are essential for moving goods efficiently across waterways, supporting industries like shipping, construction, and oil transport.

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

To thrive as a Tow Boat operator, you need strong navigational abilities, proficiency in vessel handling, and typically a valid captain's license such as a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential. Familiarity with marine communication systems, towing equipment, and safety protocols is essential. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and stress management skills make you stand out in dynamic and sometimes challenging conditions. These competencies are critical to ensure safe, efficient towing operations and collaboration with crew and clients along busy waterways.

What are the typical working conditions and schedules like for tow boat operators?

Tow Boat operators often work long hours in varying weather conditions, including nights, weekends, and holidays, depending on client needs and river or harbor activity. You may spend extended periods on the water, staying on-board during multi-day assignments and collaborating closely with a small crew. The work environment is hands-on, requiring constant attention to safety and readiness for potential emergencies. This role can be physically demanding but offers a unique, engaging setting for those who enjoy working outdoors and operating marine vessels.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tow Boat jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Tow Boat jobs in Indiana are:

What are popular job titles related to Tow Boat jobs in Indiana?

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

What job categories do people searching Tow Boat jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Tow Boat jobs in Indiana are:

Tow Boat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tow Boat job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,772 per year, or $21 per hour.

Inland Wheelman

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Jeffersonville, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

American Commercial Barge Line rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

ACBL is currently seeking Captains as well as Pilots for their mainline vessels.   This position has primary responsibility for the safety of vessel employees, the vessel, cargo and the environment.  This position is for our vessels that work primarily in the Canal; however you must be able to work throughout the Inland river system.  This position will work 28 days on the vessel and be off 14 days (28/14) or 28 days on the vessel and off 28 days (28/28).

Your Responsibilities - How You Will Make an IMPACT!

  • Ensure that work completed during his/her watch is done in accordance with Company safety policies and practices
  • Navigate the vessel safely at all times
  • Ensure all crew members on vessel receive instruction on how to do jobs properly and monitor performance
  • Carry out all duties assigned under the Vessel Security Plan as the designated vessel security officer
  • Ensure that each crew member knows the cargo of each barge in tow and has an understanding of any hazards associated with said cargoes. CFR 35.05-15b
  • Enforce all Company policies and vessel specific guidelines in support of the Crew Endurance Management System onboard all vessels
  • Participate in crew management, performance evaluation, general supervisory duties and management of the vessel’s budget
  • Complete required log entries
  • Maintain radio watch as required
  • Report Certain Dangerous Cargoes (CDC) barges at pick-up, drop-off, and designated mile points to the Inland River Vessel Movement Center
  • Enforce all rules
  • Give assignments and direction to the mate and/or lead deckhand
  • Comply with all established vessel management policies and procedures
  • Maintain the vessel budget and help maximize cost efficiency as directed
  • Provide instructions and information to crew members, ACBL land-based personnel, USCG or lock personnel

Job Qualifications - What You Will Bring to the ACBL Team

  • Must meet USCG physical examination requirements
  • Must be able to travel to and from vessel / training locations via air or car travel (must possess a valid driver’s license)
  • Must be able to work one of the following schedules: 28/28 or 28/14
  • Must be able to work a 6 hour on 6 hour off watch or 12 hour watches
  • Must have experience pushing barges (tows of 6 or more preferred)
  • Must be able to climb steep stairs, sit or stand for long periods of time
  • Must be able to ride in or pilot a crew boat or zodiac to get to/from towing vessel
  • Must be able to work in all weather conditions
  • Must maintain valid USCG licensing
  • Master of Towing Vessels upon Western Rivers license required
  • Must have an Inland Waters or Near Coastal Endorsement
  • Maintain an active TWIC

What American Commercial Barge Line employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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