Mississippi River Captain — Lead Navigation & Crew

ACBL Transportation Services LLC; Cairo (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

401(k) retirement plan with employer"s

Employee Assistance Program

State-of-the-art vessels

Environmental stewardship

Job summary

American Commercial Barge Line seeks a Lower Miss Pilot/Captain with 25+ barge experience to safely navigate vessels on the Mississippi and its tributaries. You will supervise crew, maintain logs, and ensure regulatory and environmental compliance across river operations.

The role requires a Master towing vessels license, Inland Waters endorsement, and a valid USCG certification, with a 28-on/28-off schedule.

Qualifications

• Master of Towing Vessels upon Western Rivers license required.
• Inland Waters or Near Coastal Endorsement.
• Must meet USCG physical examination requirements.
• Must be able to travel to and from vessel / training locations via air or vehicle.
• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Ability to work 28 days onboard and 28/14 days off schedule with willingness to work overtime as needed.
• Must be able to work a 6 hours on / 6 hours off watch or 12-hour watches.
• Must have experience pushing 25+ barges on the Lower Miss.
• 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.
• Maintain an active TWIC.
• 4+ years of previous experience.

Responsibilities

• Navigate vessels safely and efficiently along major river systems.
• Supervise and lead the vessel's crew to ensure safety.
• Ensure compliance with federal, local maritime regulations and environmental standards.
• Respond to navigational challenges and emergencies.
• Maintain logs and records of voyages.

Skills

Master towing vessel license

Inland waters endorsement

USCG medical exam

Travel available to vessel/training

Driver's license

TWIC

Crew leadership

Ability to work 28 days onboard

Education

High School/GED (preferred)

2–4 years experience (preferred)

Job description

American Commercial Barge Line seeks a Lower Miss Pilot/Captain with 25+ barge experience to safely navigate vessels on the Mississippi and its tributaries. You will supervise crew, maintain logs, and ensure regulatory and environmental compliance across river operations.

The role requires a Master towing vessels license, Inland Waters endorsement, and a valid USCG certification, with a 28-on/28-off schedule.