Barge Readiness Tech

canalbarge; Baton Rouge (LA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

CANAL BARGE COMPANY in Baton Rouge is seeking a Barge Readiness Technician to inspect tank barges before loading and unloading and after cleaning operations. You will learn tank barge systems and gain hands-on experience with CBC's fleet, traveling daily to local jobsites with reliable transportation.

This role requires meticulous attention to detail, safety compliance, and the ability to document inspections and prepare required forms.

Qualifications

• Hands-on mechanical aptitude and ability to read equipment manuals.
• Ability to document work and complete forms with accuracy.
• Strong commitment to safety and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Inspect barge hulls, documentation, cleanliness, safety systems, machinery and fittings.
• Review tank barge functions and cargo piping, valves and pumps for proper operation.
• Travel daily to multiple local sites; travel expenses reimbursed.
• Assist with barge operations and basic maintenance as needed.

Skills

Mechanical skills

Troubleshooting

Safety awareness

Documentation

Tools

USCG COI

SDS

Strappings

COFR

Job description

CANAL BARGE COMPANY

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: B arge R eadiness T echnician

***BATON ROUGE, LA***

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+ employees operating over 900 vessels. Our greatest strength is in providing dedicated bulk freight logistics within 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 role ensures that our barges are ready to meet our customers' high expectations before arriving at their facilities . You will learn new skills and gain tank barge knowledge in this role and be eligible for growth within the company.

POSITION OVERVIEW :

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

CORE ACCOUNTABILITIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Overall

• Accountable for ensuring barges are ready to perform a cargo transf er (load/discharge).
• Accountable for ensur ing there are no customer rejections on barges you have inspected (to include cleaning).
• Accountable for performing your work safely.
• Reliable - show up on time and ready to work.
• Inspect barge hulls, documentation , cleanliness , safety systems. machinery and fittings.

Conduct Tank Barge Inspections:

• 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 cleanliness before the barge leaves cleaning facilit ies.
• Examination of decks to ensure they are clear from spills (cargo or engine fluids).
• Visual inspection to locate hull damage and void tank leaks.
• Inspection of all barge fittings including operation of winches.
• Inspection of vapor recovery systems on tank barges, including all piping and pressure vacuum relief valve (PVRV).
• Review of the functions/operations of the cargo tanks, cargo piping, cargo tank valves, pump cans, check valve, pressure relief on pumps and hot oil heaters .
• Extensive attention to detail required .

• 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 as required and directed by management.
• This position will involve daily travel to multiple locations. Travel expenses will be reimbursed.
• Assist as needed with barge operations.
• P erform minor preventative and corrective maintenance on barge pumps, pump engines, boilers, and heaters:
• T roubleshoot and perform minor repair of components on both Detroit Diesel and Cummins engines. (Mechanical Skills)
• Identify issues and maintain fuel system s , gear boxes, couplings, drive shafts, deep well pumps, positive displacement pumps, and centrifugal pumps. ( Troubleshooting Skills)
• Understand the functions/operations and perform minor repair of the cargo high-level alarms , both mechanical and electrical.

• Safety & Compliance
• Follow all safety, environmental, and barge processes to conduct incident‑free inspections.
• Be prepared to work alone (lone worker safety).
• Utilize proper PPE while performing work on barges.
• Adhere to the policies and procedures of the company Safety Management System (SMS).
• Serve as first-line emergency responders.
• Conduct Stop Work obligation as required.

• 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 the work.

COMPETENCIES & QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

Safety Focus: Embraces our commitment to eliminate harm to people, equipment and the environment.

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