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Towboat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Type Full-time Description RESPONSIBILITIES * Responsible for the overall safety of the towing vessel. * Responsible for aiding in the safety of all coworkers. * Report any and all hazardous or ...

Job Type Full-time Description RESPONSIBILITIES * Responsible for the overall safety of the towing vessel. * Responsible for aiding in the safety of all coworkers. * Report any and all hazardous or ...

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Towboat information

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$14

$37

$89

How much do towboat jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for towboat in the United States is $37.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $41.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get a job as a deckhand?

Getting a job as a deckhand can be competitive, but entry-level positions are often available for those willing to learn and work in physically demanding environments. Prior experience or certifications such as STCW or CPR can improve chances, but many companies hire inexperienced workers and provide on-the-job training.

What are the typical working conditions like for towboat operators?

Towboat operators usually work on rotating shifts that can include long periods on the water, such as several weeks aboard followed by time off. The job requires living in close quarters with fellow crew members and adapting to changing weather, river, or harbor conditions. Workdays often involve extended hours, handling lines, overseeing towing operations, and conducting routine vessel maintenance. Operators collaborate closely with deckhands and other crew to ensure safe and timely navigation and cargo delivery. This dynamic, team-oriented environment appeals to those who enjoy hands-on work and life on the water.

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

To thrive as a Towboat Operator, you need solid navigational knowledge, mechanical aptitude, and a valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with appropriate endorsements. Proficiency in operating towboat controls, radar, GPS navigation systems, and understanding maritime regulations is essential. Strong teamwork, communication, and decision-making skills help you adapt to unpredictable river or harbor conditions. These competencies ensure the safety and efficiency of vessel operations and cargo transport in dynamic maritime environments.

What is a Towboat job?

A towboat job involves operating or working on a towboat, which pushes barges along rivers and waterways. Crew members can hold various positions, such as deckhands, engineers, pilots, and captains, each responsible for navigation, maintenance, and cargo transport. These roles require long shifts, often working weeks on the water followed by time off. Towboat jobs are essential for transporting goods efficiently on inland waterways.

More about Towboat jobs
What cities are hiring for Towboat jobs? Cities with the most Towboat job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Towboat jobs? The most popular types of Towboat jobs are:
What states have the most Towboat jobs? States with the most job openings for Towboat jobs include:
Infographic showing various Towboat job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $78,621 per year, or $37.8 per hour.
Dredge Deckhand - Night Shift

Dredge Deckhand - Night Shift

Jeffrey Sand Company

North Little Rock, AR โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

The dredge/towboat deckhand will perform all general labor type work and duty required to safely operate and maintain the dredge and towboat as directed by supervisor.

Duties will include but are not limited to:

  • Dredge, barge, and towboat housekeeping
  • Handling lines and cables for barges and anchors
  • Maintenance and repair of machinery and equipment
  • Chipping and painting
  • Maintenance of all safety equipment

Work will be performed on a dredge on the Arkansas River, being done primarily above or adjacent to water. After a 60 day probation period, we offer a competitive benefits package, which includes health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, vision insurance, and a 401k plan.

Requirements of the position are:

  • Familiarity and comfort with work over and adjacent to water
  • Ability to work during severe conditions including inclement weather
  • Ability to 12 hours per day
  • Ability to work Saturday
  • Ability and willingness to do manual labor including lifting items as heavy as 50 pounds

We supply high-quality sand and gravel in Central Arkansas from two distribution facilities located on the banks of the Arkansas River (North Little Rock and Conway). From product quality and customer service to equipment maintenance and safety standards, we take pride in a job well done - and we've been doing jobs well since 1958. Our team is consistent and dependable, just like our products.

We stand by our work, and our clients:

  • Residential and Commercial
  • State Highway and Transportation
  • US Army Corp of Engineers
  • FAA
  • Golf Course
  • Landfill Construction

Jeffrey Sand is an Equal Opportunity Employer and takes Affirmative Action for Veterans & Individuals with Disabilities

Please note: This employment position may be considered a Safety Sensitive Position related to the operation of equipment or working in proximity of operating equipment, working over or adjacent to water, working at a height, or a particular assignment regulated by license, credential, or contract which stipulates the position or work as Safety Sensitive.