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Trainee Barge Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Trainee Barge Operator information

What is the difference between Trainee Barge Operator vs Deckhand?

AspectTrainee Barge OperatorDeckhand
Required CertificationsBasic safety and operational certificationsBasic safety certifications, possibly some maritime training
Work EnvironmentOn barges, focusing on operational tasksOn ships or vessels, assisting with maintenance and cargo
Employer & Industry UsageMaritime, inland waterways, shipping companiesMaritime, shipping, and offshore industries

The main difference between a Trainee Barge Operator and a Deckhand lies in their focus and responsibilities. Trainee Barge Operators are primarily trained to operate and manage barge equipment, while Deckhands assist with general vessel maintenance, cargo handling, and safety tasks. Both roles require safety certifications, but the Trainee Barge Operator role emphasizes operational training specific to barges.

What are popular job titles related to Trainee Barge Operator jobs in Tennessee?

For Trainee Barge Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Trainee Barge Operator jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Trainee Barge Operator jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Trainee Barge Operator jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Trainee Barge Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Trainee Barge Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Vessel Chief Engineer

Memphis, TN • On-site


American Commercial Barge Line
Transportation and Warehousing • 1 - 5K employees

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Great coworkers

Good employer

Respectful managers


Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Vessel Chief Engineer
Company: American Commercial Barge Line
Location: Memphis, TN; St Louis, MO; Cairo, IL; Paducah, KY; Harahan, LA; Convent, LA
Job Type: Full-Time (28/28 rotation)
American Commercial Barge Line is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Vessel Chief Engineer to join our maritime team. As a Chief Engineer, you will be responsible for the efficient operation and maintenance of our vessel's propulsion systems, machinery, and equipment. If you are a dedicated maritime professional with a proven track record of excellence, we invite you to apply for this exciting and rewarding opportunity.
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... YourIMPACT
  • Oversee the daily operations of the vessel's engine room, ensuring the safe and efficient functioning of all machinery and systems.
  • Plan and execute routine maintenance, repairs, and inspections of all engine room equipment and systems, including engines, generators, pumps, and auxiliary machinery.
  • Report accurately the fuel, water, lube status, and consumption to the wheelhouse daily.
  • Ensure strict adherence to safety procedures and regulations, including the use of personal protective equipment, and conduct safety drills and training for the engine room crew.
  • Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, spare parts inventory, and equipment performance. Prepare reports as required by regulatory authorities.
  • Ensure that the engineer trainee assigned to the vessel receives maximum exposure to and instruction in a wide variety of engineering duties and report progress to the Mgr. of Boat Maintenance Vessel Training
  • Be prepared to respond to emergencies, including engine room fires, equipment failures, and other critical situations, following established emergency procedures.

What we are looking for...
You will need to have:
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • 3+ years of experience with electronic engines (CAT, GE or EMD 710)
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Strong communication skills, verbal and written.
  • Manage Maintenance Inventory
  • Must possess the ability to work independently and with sense of urgency.
  • Maintain an active TWIC.
  • Proficiency in operating and maintaining vessel propulsion systems, including diesel engines and power generation systems.
  • Strong knowledge of safety regulations and procedures related to engine room operations.
  • Excellent leadership and communication skills.
  • Ability to work well under pressure and make sound decisions in emergency situations.
  • Familiarity with environmental regulations and best practices for reducing a vessel's environmental impact.
  • Physical fitness and the ability to perform physically demanding tasks.
  • Commitment to maintaining a clean and safe engine room.

Even better if you have:
  • Vocational training or US Coast Guard License.
  • Experience with electronic engines (CAT, GE or EMD 710)

Reasons you will love working at ACBL ...
  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Opportunity for career growth within our maritime division.
  • Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
  • Safety-oriented work culture.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Well-maintained vessels and equipment.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.


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