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Towboat Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Southern Devall Towing Co

4C Pilot

Memphis, TN · On-site

... towboat. They are required to communicate in English with other vessels, Coast Guard stations, Corp of Engineer Lockmasters and their own crew. Communications may be via VHF radio, orally, sound ...

Southern Devall Towing Co

4A Captain

Memphis, TN · On-site

... towboat. They are required to communicate in English with other vessels, Coast Guard stations, Corp of Engineer Lockmasters and their own crew. Communications may be via VHF radio, orally, sound ...

Southern Devall Towing Co

4A Captain

Sulphur, LA · On-site

... towboat. They are required to communicate in English with other vessels, Coast Guard stations, Corp of Engineer Lockmasters and their own crew. Communications may be via VHF radio, orally, sound ...

Southern Devall Towing Co

4B Relief Captain

Sulphur, LA · On-site

... towboat. They are required to communicate in English with other vessels, Coast Guard stations, Corp of Engineer Lockmasters and their own crew. Communications may be via VHF radio, orally, sound ...

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Towboat Engineer information

What is a towboat engineer?

Towboat Engineers are specialized maritime professionals responsible for maintaining, operating, and repairing the mechanical and electrical systems on towboats, which are vessels used to push barges or other vessels on inland waterways. They ensure the towboat's engines, generators, pumps, and other machinery function efficiently and safely during operations. Their duties also include routine inspections, troubleshooting issues, and keeping detailed maintenance records. Towboat Engineers play a critical role in the safe and reliable transport of goods on rivers and canals.

What are some of the common challenges faced by towboat engineers while working on inland waterways?

Towboat Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining and repairing engines in tight, confined spaces while the vessel is in operation. They must be prepared to troubleshoot mechanical and electrical issues quickly to minimize downtime, often under changing weather conditions. Additionally, working long shifts and being away from home for extended periods can be demanding. Effective communication with the captain and crew is essential to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the towboat.

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

To thrive as a Towboat Engineer, you need a solid understanding of marine engineering, mechanical systems, and vessel maintenance, usually supported by a U.S. Coast Guard license and relevant work experience. Familiarity with engine diagnostic tools, hydraulic and electrical systems, and compliance with maritime safety regulations is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the safe and efficient operation of towboats, minimizing downtime and supporting overall crew safety and mission success.

What is the difference between Towboat Engineer vs Deckhand?

AspectTowboat EngineerDeckhand
CredentialsSTCW certification, Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)STCW certification, MMC (often less specialized)
Work EnvironmentOperate and maintain engines, navigate vesselsAssist with cargo, maintenance, and deck operations
Industry UsageMaritime shipping, inland and offshore towingGeneral deck crew on similar vessels

While both Towboat Engineers and Deckhands work on vessels within the maritime industry, Towboat Engineers focus on operating and maintaining the engine room, requiring specialized certifications. Deckhands assist with deck operations and cargo handling. The roles often overlap in work environment but differ in technical responsibilities and credentials.

What cities are hiring for Towboat Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Towboat Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Towboat Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Towboat Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Towboat Engineer jobs?

For Towboat Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Towboat Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Marine Mechanic (Traveling Position - St Louis, MO; Cairo, IL; Paducah, KY)

Cairo, IL • On-site

American Commercial Barge Line LLC
Transportation and Warehousing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about American Commercial Barge Line LLCexternal

$24 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 8 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

Job Title: Marine Mechanic
Company: American Commercial Barge Line
Location: Traveling Position - St Louis, MO; Cairo, IL; Paducah, KY
Job Type: Full-Time; Hourly

Summary:

Are you a skilled Marine Mechanic ready to dive into a challenging and rewarding career working on vessels along the iconic Mississippi River and its tributaries? The Marine Mechanic maintains the towboat fleet in proper working condition by making necessary adjustments and repairs to the machinery and equipment on fleet vessels. Responsibilities include the inspection, routine maintenance, maintenance and repair planning, and troubleshooting of main propulsion machinery, auxiliary machinery, and various vessel systems. Join our team to ensure the operational efficiency and safety of our fleet as we navigate the waterways.

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 all the way back to 1915, when we began moving coal on the Kentucky River.  We offer a wide range of career paths in both operations and support services. Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the best of the best to join our ACBL team.  

What you will be doing... Your IMPACT 

  • Perform all work in accordance with ACBL safety & environmental policies

  • Abide by all ACBL policies, USCG and environmental regulations

  • Abide by ACBL’s Safety Management System for Vessel Engineering, Maintenance and Repair Manual for Engineered and Non-Engineered Vessels.  

  • Maintain all equipment on fleet vessels in proper working order

  • Make repairs to engines, generators, auxiliary machinery, and other systems on the fleet vessels as needed

  • Be able to use an electric multi-meter safely to troubleshoot and make repairs

  • Track, document, and perform necessary routine maintenance on the fleet vessels

  • Maintain all necessary documentation and other required paperwork (both written & computer) associated with the repairs and maintenance of the fleet vessels

  • Maintain an inventory of spare parts and materials that are critical for the repairs of fleet vessels and re-order parts as needed

  • Assist outside vendors as needed to make repairs on the fleet vessels

  • Assist when needed to make repairs to mainline vessels

  • Help maintain a pool of support vessels and deliver them to and from mainline vessels as needed

  • Keep PIC/MMC credentials current and assist as needed with fuel and oil transfers

  • Develop a working knowledge of the SMS and use for all repairs and daily activities

  • Be a leader in safety and environmental stewardship in the ACBL fleet

  • Must be able to be on-call weekends and nights during assigned weeks of call

  • Perform all other job duties as assigned

What we are looking for...   

You will need to have: 

  • Must meet ACBL physical examination requirements

  • Minimum of a high school diploma or GED

  • Must possess and maintain an active TWIC

  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license

  • 5 + years mechanical maintenance experience and repairs of associated equipment. 

  • Must live within reasonable driving distance of assigned location (Employee is responsible for getting themselves to and from work each day)

Even better if you have:

  • Prior towboat troubleshooting and repair experience preferred.

Reasons you will love working at ACBL ... 

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Opportunity to work on a variety of vessels and equipment.
  • Collaborative and supportive team environment.
  • Access to cutting-edge tools and technology
  • Commitment to safety and professional development
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Company travel vehicle assignment.

FLSA Status:   

Non-Exempt 

What American Commercial Barge Line employees say

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