Liquid Barge Technician

About the role

The Liquid Barge Technician plays a critical role in ensuring the safe and compliant operation of tank barges by conducting thorough inspections before and after cargo operations. These inspections focus on verifying cleanliness, assessing mechanical functionality, and identifying any safety or regulatory issues that could impact operations. The position demands strong mechanical aptitude, keen attention to detail, and a solid understanding of barge systems and applicable environmental and safety standards. By maintaining high standards of inspection and compliance, the Liquid Barge Technician helps safeguard personnel, protect the environment, and support the efficient movement of cargo. Successful performance includes zero safety incidents, accurate and timely inspection reporting, minimal equipment downtime due to effective troubleshooting and maintenance, barges cleared for loading/unloading without delays, decks kept clean to prevent hazards, reliability in shift coverage and travel flexibility, and a positive representation of the company while upholding a strong safety culture.

Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections of tank barges, including inspection of voids.
• Read and understand barge documents.
• Inspect all other working equipment on the barge.
• Inspect and verify barge cleanliness prior to leaving the cleaning facility.
• Start barge engine and inspect for defects.
• Locate hull damage, perform void tank inspections, and inspect all fittings including winches.
• Familiarity with barge equipment and ability to perform minor preventative and corrective maintenance on barge pumps, pump engines, boilers, and heaters.
• Knowledge of vapor recovery systems on tank barges, including all piping and pressure vacuum relief valve (PVRV).
• Knowledge of the functions/operations of cargo tanks, cargo piping, cargo tank valves, pump cans, check valve, pressure relief on pumps and hot oil heaters.
• Maintain and ensure decks are clear from spills (cargo or engine fluids).
• Assist as needed with barge operations.
• Maintain a clean and safe working environment that complies with environmental guidelines and policies.
• Stay compliant with all regulatory bodies and safety rules and policies.
• Utilize proper PPE while performing work on barges.
• Travel to multiple locations as required.
• Perform other duties as required and directed by management.
• Carry out the Business Philosophy, Code of Conduct, Mission and Vision of Illinois Marine Towing and Canal Barge Company.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma required.
• Valid Driver's License.
• Extensive hands‑on experience with barges, familiarity with pumps, compressors, gauges, and tanks.
• Basic computer knowledge.
• Ability to pass CBC Barge Readiness Course.
• Ability to properly gauge tanks.
• Possess a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).

Skills

• Attention to detail – high level of accuracy when performing inspections, reading documentation, and reporting findings.
• Communication Skills – effectively communicates with supervisors, crew members, and other stakeholders; conveys inspection results, equipment concerns, and safety issues verbally and in writing; listens actively.
• Commitment to quality – maintains high standards in barge cleanliness, equipment condition, documentation, and safety practices.
• Dependability – consistently shows up on time, follows through on responsibilities, reliable under pressure or in challenging environments.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to climb ladders and stairs.
• Repetitive bending and stooping.
• Lifting heavy marine equipment and objects up to 75 pounds from various levels.
• Ability to work outdoors in all elements during all seasons.
• Must be clean shaven at all times to ensure effective face seal when using a respirator mask.