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$14

$37

$89

How much do towboat jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 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.

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a towboat operator?

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.

How to get hired on a towboat?

To get hired as a towboat deckhand or mate, candidates typically need a valid US Coast Guard license, such as a Merchant Mariner Credential, and relevant maritime experience. Employers often require physical fitness, safety training, and familiarity with navigation and vessel operations. Applying through maritime companies, completing onboard training, and demonstrating reliability are key steps in the hiring process.

What is a towboat?

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:
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Towboat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Towboat job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,621 per year, or $37.8 per hour.

Deckhand/Unloading Operator

Farmer Holding Company

Jefferson City, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Capital Sand Company is currently looking to fill a deckhand/unloading operator position located in Jefferson City, MO. These positions are responsible for handling lines and other equipment to secure the vessel and tow. While also running equipment to unload the boats. Unloading barges on the Missouri River.

The position requires the ability to work a rotating schedule. Primarily 5 days/week and 12-hour shifts. Some Saturdays as needed. Flexibility is necessary. This position needs to be within traveling distance of Jefferson City, MO. This is not a 28-day on, 14-day off, ect. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Assist boat Captain with lookout/navigation and maintain a watch on deck, calling distances, and securing tow.
  • Handles ropes and cables to make tow/break tow of barges to towboat, dredge or secure in fleet.
  • Perform general labor to assist the boat Captain with general maintenance of vessels; oil changes, and servicing of deck equipment (winches ratchets, water pumps, etc.)
  • Perform general labor to assist dredge operator with general maintenance; oil changes, servicing of deck equipment (winches ratchets, water pumps, etc.), dredge pump maintenance, and screen changes.
  • Cleans debris from deck of barges, tow boat and dredge.
  • Maintains cleanliness and organization of the interior and exterior of dredge or towboat, such as cleaning the galley, cleaning the engine room, and maintaining clear walking paths on vessels.
  • Paint and chipping of boats, dredges, decks, and superstructure of vessels to maintain a nice appearance.
  • Assist with shift inspections of vessels.
  • Build and assemble tow.
  • Participates in safety training, drills, and meetings to ensure overall vessel and crew safety.
  • Assists with fueling dredge and tow boat.
  • Observe and comply with all company safety policies and procedures and U.S. Coast Guard requirements.
  • Suggest corrective action to improve plant and equipment performance and assist with implementation.
  • Work in a constant state of alertness and in a safe manner.
  • Cross-training and learn the other job functions within the dredging crew. This allows for the crew members to have a variety of job functions throughout the day/week.
  • Performs other duties as directed.
  • At least 1 year of previous deckhand experience on inland rivers (preferred)
  • Perform maintenance on equipment, as needed.
  • Frequent standing, walking, bending over, climbing, reaching overhead, kneeling, balancing, pushing or pulling, talking/communication, repetitive use of legs, lifting up to 50 lbs., carrying up to 75 lbs., eye/hand coordination.
  • Valid driver’s license (preferred)
  • Must have reliable transportation.
  • Must be willing to do overnight travel.
  • Must pass a pre-physical, drug test/alcohol screen, and background check.
  • Strong work ethic and proven track record
  • Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Must be willing to work overtime.
  • Ability to read and understand the English language.
  • Not afraid of working on/around water.
  • Training or working knowledge of MSHA and Coast Guard regulations a plus.
  • Welding experience a plus
  • Mechanical experience a plus

This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position. We offer competitive wages and great employee benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) plan, life insurance, and short and long-term disability.

EEO/Employer/Vet/Disabled

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

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