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Trip Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Commericial

Trip Pilot

Cairo, IL · On-site

Trip Pilot Job Title: Trip Pilot Company: American Commercial Barge Line Locations: Memphis, TN; St. Louis, MO; Cairo, IL; Convent, LA; Harahan, LA; Channelview, TX; Jeffersonville, IN Job Type ...

American Commericial

Trip Pilot

Harahan, LA · On-site

Trip Pilot Job Title: Trip Pilot Company: American Commercial Barge Line Locations: Memphis, TN; St. Louis, MO; Cairo, IL; Convent, LA; Harahan, LA; Channelview, TX; Jeffersonville, IN Job Type ...

Next Gen Logistics

Tugboat Trip Pilot

New Orleans, LA · Remote

Tugboat Trip Pilot YOUR COMPASS TO SUCCESS Your New Company: At NGL Companies we are committed to workplace safety.We are a trusted maritime transportation, construction and logistics company ...

HFL 412 Marine Inc

Trip Pilot

Pittsburgh, PA · Remote

Trip Pilots are primarily responsible for the safety of vessel employees, the vessel, cargo and the environment. The primary responsibility is to navigate the vessel safely at all times, in all ...

HFL 412 Marine Inc

Trip Pilot

Point Pleasant, WV · On-site

Trip Pilots are primarily responsible for the safety of vessel employees, the vessel, cargo and the environment. The primary responsibility is to navigate the vessel safely at all times, in all ...

American Commercial Barge Line

Trip Pilot

Harahan, LA · On-site

Trip Pilot Company: American Commercial Barge Line Location: Memphis, TN; St. Louis, MO; Cairo, IL; Convent, LA; Harahan, LA; Channelview, TX; Jeffersonville, IN Job Type: Full-Time Are you an ...

Marquette Transportation

Trip Pilot

Paducah, KY · On-site

Marquette Transportation Company Captain/Pilot Headquartered in Paducah, Kentucky and founded in 1978, Marquette is a leading provider of inland marine transportation services. Our Company operates ...

New

genesis

Trip Pilot Marine Vessels Inland

Houston, TX · On-site

The Trip Pilot shall be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel and its tow, including, but not limited to the safe navigation and piloting of the vessel and its tow, the ...

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All JobsTrip Pilot Jobs

Trip Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do trip pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for trip pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical responsibilities and daily routine of a Trip Pilot?

As a Trip Pilot, your primary responsibilities include safely navigating towboats or vessels along assigned routes, overseeing crew operations, and ensuring compliance with all maritime regulations and company policies. You will conduct pre-trip inspections, monitor navigational and weather conditions, manage emergencies if they arise, and communicate regularly with dispatchers and port authorities. Daily routines often vary based on river conditions and schedules, and you may spend extended periods onboard during a rotation. Collaboration with deckhands, engineers, and other pilots is essential to maintain smooth operations and crew safety. This role offers hands-on maritime experience and the opportunity to advance to senior pilot or captain positions with additional experience and credentials.

Is 25 too old to be a pilot?

Trip pilots can start training at various ages, and 25 is generally not too old to become a pilot. Many pilots begin their careers in their mid-20s or later, provided they meet the required certifications, flight hours, and health standards. Age is less restrictive than skills, experience, and licensing requirements in the aviation industry.

Is there still a pilot shortage in 2026?

The airline industry continues to experience a pilot shortage due to increased travel demand and retirements, which affects pilot hiring and training. This shortage impacts roles like trip pilots, who require certifications such as an ATP license and experience with flight operations. The demand for qualified pilots is expected to remain high in 2026.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $500,000 annually include roles such as airline pilots, especially experienced captains, as well as certain executive positions like CEOs and investment bankers. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve high levels of responsibility and long hours.

What is a Trip Pilot job?

A Trip Pilot is a professional mariner responsible for navigating vessels through specific waterways, such as rivers, canals, or coastal routes. They typically have specialized knowledge of local waterways, ensuring safe and efficient passage. Trip Pilots are often contracted for short-term assignments and may work on towboats, barges, or other commercial vessels. Their primary duties include steering the vessel, avoiding hazards, and complying with maritime regulations.

Do pilots make $300 an hour?

Trip pilots, especially those flying private or corporate jets, can earn around $300 per hour or more, depending on experience, aircraft type, and employer. Commercial airline pilots typically earn a salary that averages less per hour but can reach higher hourly rates with overtime or specialized routes. Certification, flight hours, and the type of flying influence pilot compensation.

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

To thrive as a Trip Pilot, you need in-depth knowledge of vessel navigation, river and waterway systems, and a valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with relevant endorsements, often supplemented by years of on-the-water experience. Familiarity with navigation and communication equipment, electronic chart systems, and safety protocols is essential. Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills help ensure safe operations and effective coordination with crew members. These skills are crucial for maintaining vessel safety, regulatory compliance, and efficient trip execution in dynamic maritime environments.

More about Trip Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Trip Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Trip Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Trip Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Trip Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Trip Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Trip Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Trip Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Trip Pilot jobs are:
Trip Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trip Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Trip Pilot

American Commericial

Cairo, IL • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Trip Pilot

Job Title: Trip Pilot Company: American Commercial Barge Line Locations: Memphis, TN; St. Louis, MO; Cairo, IL; Convent, LA; Harahan, LA; Channelview, TX; Jeffersonville, IN Job Type: Full-Time

Are you an experienced and dedicated Trip Pilot looking for an exciting opportunity in the maritime industry? American Commercial Barge Line is seeking skilled individuals to join our team and play a vital role in ensuring the safe and efficient navigation of vessels through challenging waterways.

What you will be doing... Your IMPACT

  • Ensure that work completed during his/her watch is done in accordance with ACBL safety policies and practices.
  • Always navigate the vessel safely.
  • 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 SMS (Safety Management System) and within that the Crew Endurance Management System onboard all vessels.
  • Participate in crew management, 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.

What we are looking for...

You will need to have:

  • Master of Towing Vessels upon Western Rivers license required.
  • Must have experience running on the Lower Mississippi River 30+ loaded barges.
  • 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 6 hours on 6 hours off watch.
  • Must have experience pushing barges (tows of 20 or more preferred).
  • 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.
  • Be able to maintain an active TWIC.

Even better if you have:

  • Experience pushing 20+ barges.

Reasons you will love working at ACBL

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • A collaborative and supportive team environment.
  • Comprehensive training and career development opportunities.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Commitment to safety and employee well-being

Qualifications

Experience: 2-4 years

Licenses & Certifications: TWIC, Driver's License

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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