Fleet Wheelman - Port Allen (Tiger Fleet)

American Commercial Barge Line ACBL; Port Allen (LA); On-site; USD 4,822,000 - 8,266,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

On-the-job training

Safety culture

401(k) plan

EAP

Job summary

American Commercial Barge Line (ACBL) seeks a Fleet Wheelman for Port Allen, LA, aboard our inland fleet. You will command vessel operations, navigate waterways, supervise crew, and uphold safety and security policies on every watch.

The role requires a Master of Towing Vessels license, proven towing experience, and the ability to work a 14/7 schedule with 12-hour watches. ACBL offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and strong training programs to support your career.

Qualifications

• Must hold a valid Master of Towing Vessels on Western Rivers license (Inland Waters or Near Coastal endorsement).
• Experience towing operations, preferably with tows of six barges or more.
• Ability to work a 14/7 schedule with 12-hour watches.
• Physical capability to navigate stairs, withstand all weather, and pilot crew boats as needed.
• Valid TWIC card, driver's license, and ability to travel to/from vessel or training locations.
• Up-to-date USCG licensing and physical examination clearance.

Responsibilities

• Navigate the vessel safely at all times and in accordance with safety policies.
• Ensure crew receives proper instruction and monitor performance.
• Act as vessel security officer under Vessel Security Plan.
• Maintain knowledge of cargo and hazards; enforce Crew Endurance policies.
• Provide direction to mates and deckhands; manage logs and budgets.

Skills

Master of Towing Vessels license

7+ years towing ops experience

14/7 schedule readiness

Crew leadership

USCG licensing

TWIC card

Port Allen navigation

Job description

Requisition Number: INLAN001798

• Posted : September 10, 2026
• Full-Time

Locations

Showing 1 location

Traveling Postion - Inland Waterways | Vessel

Job Title: Fleet Wheelman
Company: American Commercial Barge Line
Location: Port Allen, Tri Fleet (Louisiana)
Job Type: Full-Time

Are you ready to steer your career in an exciting new direction? ACBL, a leader in U.S. marine transportation, is on the lookout for skilled Captains and Pilots to join our fleet vessels in Port Allen and Tri-Fleet. With ACBL, you'll navigate challenging waters, lead a top-notch crew, and play a vital role in safeguarding our people, cargo, and the environment. This role follows a 14/7 schedule (14 days on, 7 days off) with 12-hour watches, offering you both adventure and balance.

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... Your IMPACT

• Ensure that work completed during his/her watch is done in accordance with Company safety policies and practices
• Navigate the vessel safely at all times
• 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 Crew Endurance Management System onboard all vessels
• Participate in crew management, performance evaluation, 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
• 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:

• A valid Master of Towing Vessels upon Western Rivers license (Inland Waters or Near Coastal endorsement required)
• Experience with towing operations, ideally with tows of six barges or more
• Ability to work a 14/7 schedule with 12-hour watches
• Physical capability to navigate vessel stairs, work in all weather, and pilot crew boats as needed
• A valid TWIC card, driver’s license, and ability to travel to/from vessel or training locations
• Up-to-date USCG licensing and physical examination clearance

Reasons you will love working at ACBL …

• Competitive Pay and Benefits: Enjoy a strong hourly wage and a comprehensive benefits package.
• On-the-Job Training: Grow your skills with hands‑on training and development opportunities.
• Safety-Focused Culture: Work within a company that prioritizes safety for all employees.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan: Plan for your future with a 401(k) that includes an employer match.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access resources to support your well-being.
• Meaningful Work: Be part of essential maritime operations that make a difference in our nation's transportation network.

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.