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Working On Barge Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Barge Readiness Technician

Houston, TX

$35K - $36K/yr

Inspect all other working equipment and machinery on the barge * Inspect and verify barge cleanlinessbeforethe barge leavescleaning facilities * Examination of decks to ensure they are clear from ...

Barge Readiness Tech

Sulphur, LA · On-site

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

Inspect all other working equipment and machinery on the barge * Inspect and verify barge cleanliness before the barge leaves cleaning facilities * Examination of decks to ensure they are clear from ...

Assign work to employees, based on material and worker requirements of specific jobs. * Conduct ... Barge Supervisors may directly supervise 15-20 employees on the Barge and/or other remote locations ...

Liquid Barge Technician

Lemont, IL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Inspect all other working equipment on the barge. d. Inspect and verify barge cleanliness prior to leaving the cleaning facility. e. Starting of barge engine and inspection for defects. f. Experience ...

Liquid Barge Technician

Lemont, IL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Inspect all other working equipment on the barge. d. Inspect and verify barge cleanliness prior to leaving the cleaning facility. e. Starting of barge engine and inspection for defects. f. Experience ...

Terral RiverService, Inc. is currently looking for dependable and hard-working barge cleaners for ... Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and industry ...

Terral RiverService, Inc. is currently looking for dependable and hard-working barge cleaners for ... Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and industry ...

... focus on safety. Key responsibilities include: * Safely unload 30 or more tons slabs from barges ... Familiarity with barge lid handling, railcar loading, and working in various weather conditions is ...

Company Description We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Barge Cleaner to join our team ... Comfortable working on water and at heights. * Capable of working in confined spaces. * Be able to ...

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Working On Barge information

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How much do working on barge jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for working on barge in the United States is $17.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does working on a barge involve?

Working on a barge typically involves operating, maintaining, or assisting with the transportation of goods or equipment on waterways such as rivers and canals. Job duties may include securing cargo, performing routine maintenance, handling lines and rigging, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. Crew members often work long shifts and live on the barge for extended periods. The work can be physically demanding and requires attention to safety due to the risks associated with working on water. Barges are essential for transporting bulk materials like coal, grain, and petroleum products.

What skills and qualifications are needed to work on a barge?

To thrive when working on a barge, you need a solid understanding of maritime operations, vessel maintenance, and safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant maritime certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) or STCW. Familiarity with navigation systems, deck machinery, and safety equipment is typically required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and clear communication are vital soft skills for ensuring safety and smooth coordination in dynamic environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial to uphold safety standards, maintain operational efficiency, and respond effectively to challenging situations on the water.

What are common challenges faced when working on a barge, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Working on a barge often involves long hours in varying weather conditions and requires adaptability to the unique environment of living and working on the water. New hires may find it challenging to adjust to the confined living quarters and the physical demands of the job, such as manual labor and maintaining safety standards. Building strong teamwork and communication skills is essential, as tasks are often completed in coordination with a close-knit crew. Preparing by improving physical fitness, familiarizing yourself with safety protocols, and being open to learning from experienced colleagues can help ease the transition and contribute to success in this role.

What is the difference between Working On Barge vs Working On Tugboat?

AspectWorking On BargeWorking On Tugboat
Required CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Marine Deck LicenseSTCW Basic Safety, Marine Deck License
Work EnvironmentStationary or moving barges on waterways, often in ports or inland watersMoving vessels, assisting in towing or pushing barges, open water
Industry UsageFreight transport, construction, oil & gas supportVessel towing, maritime logistics, offshore support

Both roles require similar certifications and work in maritime environments, but Working On Barge typically involves stationary or semi-stationary platforms in inland or port areas, while Working On Tugboat involves actively maneuvering vessels in open water. The choice depends on your preference for stationary versus mobile work in the maritime industry.

How do I get a job on a working on barge?

To work on a barge, you typically need relevant maritime or industrial skills, such as deckhand, engineer, or crane operator experience, and often require certifications like STCW or OSHA safety training. Job opportunities are found through maritime or industrial staffing agencies, company websites, and industry job boards, with physical fitness and the ability to work in confined or outdoor environments being important factors.
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Infographic showing various Working On Barge job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,994 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Barge Readiness Technician

Houston, TX

Canal Barge Company
Water Transportation • 501 - 1,000 employees

$35K - $36K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

CANAL BARGE COMPANY

JOB DESCRIPTION

BARGE READINESS TECHNICIAN

*Channelview, TX Area*

Canal Barge Company (CBC), headquartered in New Orleans, is a leading company in the inland marine industry with a history of steady growth and an exceptional human & environmental safety record. We believe CBC's Mississippi River transportation system is among the most efficient and environmentally friendly methods of transporting cargo within the United States.CBC has grown into a diversified business with 900+ employeesoperatingover 900 vessels. Our greatest strength is in providing dedicated bulk freightlogisticswithin the rivers and canals of the United States, Gulf of Mexico, & Atlantic Coast. Dedicated to long-term mutually beneficial relationships and tailor-made customer service, CBC has a strong customer base made up of several Fortune 500 chemical and oil companies, as well as construction companies, fabricators, public utilities, engineering companies, and the United States Government.

This critical roleensures that our barges are ready to meet our customers'high expectationsbefore arriving attheir facilities.You will learn new skills andgaintankbarge knowledgein this role and be eligible for growth within the company.

I. POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Barge Readiness Technician willbe responsible fortank barge inspections prior to loading and unloading of products. This position will alsobe responsible forbarge inspections after a barge cleaning operation has occurred. Willingness to work outside and ability to learn about tank barges isa must. The job is based in various ports but does require daily travel to local jobsites,necessitatingreliable transportation.

II. CORE ACCOUNTABILITIES &RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Overall

  • Accountablefor ensuringbarges are readyto perform a cargo transfer(load/discharge)

  • Accountableforensuringthere are nocustomerrejections on barges you have inspected(to include cleaning)

  • Accountablefor performingyour work safely

  • Reliable - show up on time and ready to work

  • Inspect bargehulls,documentation,cleanliness,safetysystems. machinery and fittings

2. ConductTank BargeInspections:

  • Inspection of barge voids (empty ballast tanks)

  • Reading and understanding tank barge documents(USCG COI, SDS,Strappings,COFR)

  • Starting of barge pump engine and inspection for defects

  • Inspect all other working equipment and machinery on the barge

  • Inspect and verify barge cleanlinessbeforethe barge leavescleaning facilities

  • Examination of decks to ensure they are clear from spills (cargo or engine fluids).

  • Visual inspection tolocatehull damageandvoid tank leaks

  • Inspectionof all barge fittings includingoperation ofwinches

  • Inspection of vapor recovery systems on tank barges, including all piping and pressure vacuum reliefvalve(PVRV).

  • Review of the functions/operations of the cargo tanks, cargo piping, cargo tank valves, pump cans, check valve, pressure relief onpumpsand hot oil heaters.

  • Extensive attention to detailrequired.

  • Ability to document work and complete forms

  • Stay compliant with all regulatory bodies as it applies to the work that is being completed and with all safety rules and policies.

  • Perform other duties asrequiredand directed by management.

  • This position will involve daily travel to multiple locations. Travel expenses will be reimbursed.

  • Assistas needed with barge operations.

3. Perform minor preventative and corrective maintenance on barge pumps, pump engines, boilers, and heaters;

  • Troubleshootand performminor repairofcomponents on both Detroit Diesel and Cummins engines(Mechanical Skills)

  • Identifyissuesandmaintainfuel systems,gear boxes, couplings, drive shafts, deep well pumps, positive displacement pumps, and centrifugal pumps.(TroubleshootingSkills)

  • Understand the functions/operationsand performminor repairof thecargohigh-levelalarms,both mechanical and electrical.

4. Safety & Compliance

  • Follow all safety, environmental, and barge processes to conduct incident-freeinspections

  • Be prepared to work alone(lone workersafety)

  • Utilize proper PPE while performing work on barges.

  • Adhere tothe policies and procedures of the companySafety Management System (SMS)

  • Serve as first-line emergency responders

  • Conduct Stop Work obligation asrequired

5. Company Representation

  • Represent the Company to internal and external parties in a way that enhances the Company's reputation

  • Carry out the Business Philosophy, Code of Conduct, and mission of Canal Barge Company.

  • Build effective, professional working relationships with customer dock personnel and other external parties such as fleet boats and with CBC vessel personnel

  • Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor

  • Show up on time, ready and prepared to conduct thework

III. COMPETENCIES & QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

1. Safety Focus: Embraces our commitment toeliminateharm to people,equipmentand the environment.

2. Relationship Builder: Builds connections and nurtures relationships tofacilitatecandid conversations and the accomplishment of work goals.

3. Customer: Keeps the customer at the forefront of our actions and decisions, providesstrong supportto internal customers and our mariners

4. ExtremeOwnership/Accountable:Takes ownership of outcomes for all work and personal activities

5. Growth Mindset:Demonstratescuriosity and willingness to challenge self and others to learn and evolve, regardless of the situation or context.

6. Learnerwho approaches situations with curiosity and humility to improve self,teamand organization. Does not accept the status quo / never complacent.

7. Continuous Improvement & Innovation Mindset: Relentless focus on improvement.Usescuriosity, creativity, and critical thinking to develop and activate new, valuable ideas and solutions that improve organizational performance.

8. Resilience: Embraces challenges, views setbacks as learning opportunities, and persists in the face of obstacles to get the jobdone.

IV. QUALIFICATIONS

  • Knowledge of tank barges is preferred but notrequired.

  • A valid Driver's License

  • Reliable means of transportationrequired.

  • A high school diploma or equivalency

  • Able to pass a background check

  • Able to pass a physicalexamwhich includes a respirator fit test and requiresthecandidate to be clean shaven

V. WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE

  • Complete understanding and documentation of bargeconditionswith attention to detail

  • Works safely andcontributes to thesafety of those around you

  • Can diagnose and perform minor barge maintenance

  • Eagerto learn, develop,and grow acareerwithourorganization.

VI. KEY RELATIONSHIPS

Reports to:Tankerman Service Group (TSG)Barge ReadinessSupervisorlocatedin Sulphur

Canal Barge Company and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers - All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.