Wheelman - Conventional Steering

American Commercial Lines; Jeffersonville (IN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

American Commercial Barge Line (ACBL) seeks a Wheelman – Conventional Steering to support safe navigation on Inland River System vessels. You will assist captains, monitor traffic and river conditions, and help maintain a safe, compliant working environment across watch shifts.

Ideal candidates bring USCG licensing, TWIC, a valid driver’s license, and prior towing-vessel experience. The role offers vessel rotations and long‑term career opportunities with a leading marine transporter.

Qualifications

• Must meet USCG physical examination requirements.
• Must hold a USCG license appropriate for the role.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to vessels or training locations.
• Ability to work rotating schedules (28/28, 28/14, 21/21, 14/14).
• Ability to stand 6/6 or 12‑hour watches and work in all weather.
• Prior experience aboard towing vessels is preferred.
• Active TWIC card required.

Responsibilities

• Operate conventional steering equipment safely under Captain/Pilot guidance.
• Maintain situational awareness of river conditions and traffic.
• Assist with safe navigation following routes and company procedures.
• Support communication between wheelhouse, deck, locks, and shore personnel.
• Monitor equipment, steering systems, and alarms during watches.
• Assist with barge maneuvers and tow configurations as needed.
• Complete accurate log entries and radio communications.
• Comply with safety practices and Coast Guard regulations.
• Participate in drills and crewmate endurance activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

USCG license

TWIC

Driver's license

Vessel travel

Watch schedules

Towing vessels exp

Safety procedures

Job description

Traveling Postion - Inland Waterways | Vessel

Description

Company: American Commercial Barge Line (ACBL)
Location: Inland River System (vessel-based)
Job Type: Full Time; Vessel Rotation

Schedule: Multiple rotations available, including 28/28, 28/14, 21/21, or 14/14. Wheelmen work 6 hours on / 6 hours off or 12‑hour watches depending on vessel needs.

Join American Commercial Barge Line as a Wheelman – Conventional Steering and play a vital role in safely navigating our towing vessels throughout the Inland River System. In this hands‑on operational role, you will support the vessel’s safe transit, assist with navigational duties, monitor traffic and river conditions, and help the Captain/Pilot maintain a safe, compliant, and efficient working environment. If you are safety‑driven, dedicated, and serious about a maritime career, this role offers excellent long‑term opportunities.

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 back to 1915, when we began moving coal on the Kentucky River.

Whether you’re working aboard our vessels or supporting operations on shore, ACBL is always looking for top talent to join our team.

What you will be doing... Your IMPACT

• Operate conventional steering equipment safely and effectively under the direction of the Captain or Pilot.
• Maintain situational awareness of river conditions, traffic, aids to navigation, and potential hazards.
• Assist with safe navigation by following established routes, wheel orders, and company procedures.
• Support crew communication by relaying information between the wheelhouse, deck crew, locks, and shore personnel.
• Monitor vessel equipment, steering systems, and alarms during watch standing.
• Assist with barge maneuvers, fleet operations, and tow configuration as needed.
• Complete accurate log entries, documentation, and radio communications.
• Comply with company policies, safety practices, and U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
• Participate in drills, safety meetings, and crew endurance management practices.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

What we are looking for...

You will need to have:

• Must meet USCG physical examination requirements
• Must maintain valid USCG licensing appropriate for role
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to/from vessels or training locations
• Ability to work one of the following schedules: 28/28, 28/14, 21/21, or 14/14
• Ability to work 6/6 or 12‑hour watches
• Prior experience working aboard towing vessels preferred
• Ability to climb steep stairs, stand or sit for extended periods, and work in all weather conditions
• Ability to ride in or pilot a crew boat or zodiac to access the vessel
• Active TWIC required

Even better if you have:

• Experience with conventional steering systems on inland towing vessels
• Experience working on the Inland River System or ICW
• Strong communication skills and situational awareness
• Commitment to safe operations and teamwork

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.