Mississippi River Captain: Lead Navigation & Crew

American Commercial Barge Line LLC; Cairo (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

401(k) match

Employee Assistance Program

Well‑maintained vessels

Job summary

American Commercial Barge Line is seeking a Lower Miss Pilot/Captain with 25+ barge experience to navigate the waterways, lead the vessel crew, and ensure safety and regulatory compliance. The role requires managing logs, responding to emergencies, and serving as the Vessel Security Officer while adhering to the Vessel Endurance Management System.

The position supports a 28 days on/28 days off schedule (or 14 days off) with travel across the Upper and Lower Mississippi and Illinois Rivers.

Qualifications

• Master of Towing Vessels upon Western Rivers license required.
• Inland Waters or Near Coastal Endorsement required.
• USCG physical examination requirements must be met.
• Travel to and from vessel/training locations by air or vehicle.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Work 28 days onboard and 28/14 days off with possible overtime.
• 24/7 watch schedules (6x6 or 12-hour watches).
• Experience pushing 25+ barges on the Lower Miss.
• Ability to ride in or pilot crew boats to towing vessel.
• Maintain active USCG licensing and TWIC.

Responsibilities

• Navigate vessels safely and efficiently along the Upper, Lower Mississippi, Illinois Rivers and tributaries.
• Supervise and lead the vessel's crew for a cohesive, safety‑mocused team.
• Ensure compliance with federal/local maritime regulations and environmental standards.
• Respond to navigational challenges and emergencies to protect vessel, crew, cargo.
• Maintain logs and voyage records, including charts and incident reports.
• Carry out duties under the Vessel Security Plan as the vessel security officer.
• Enforce company policies and Vessel Endurance Management System onboard.
• Report CDC barges at pickup, drop‑off, and designated mile points to IVMC.

Skills

Vessel navigation

Crew leadership

USCG regulations

Environmental standards

Vessel security

Crew endurance

CDC reporting

Education

High School/GED (preferred)

Job description

American Commercial Barge Line is seeking a Lower Miss Pilot/Captain with 25+ barge experience to navigate the waterways, lead the vessel crew, and ensure safety and regulatory compliance. The role requires managing logs, responding to emergencies, and serving as the Vessel Security Officer while adhering to the Vessel Endurance Management System.

The position supports a 28 days on/28 days off schedule (or 14 days off) with travel across the Upper and Lower Mississippi and Illinois Rivers.