Barge Quality Inspector

Southern Devall Towing Co•Houston, TX

10d•Onsite

About The Position

Southern Devall is seeking a highly motivated Barge Quality Inspector to ensure our tank barges meet the highest standards of safety, cleanliness, reliability, and regulatory compliance. This position plays a vital role in supporting safe cargo transportation while maintaining customer satisfaction and operational excellence. The ideal candidate has marine industry experience, mechanical aptitude, strong attention to detail, and enjoys working independently in a field-based environment. This is a hands-on position requiring regular travel to docks, terminals, ports, and marine facilities throughout the Gulf Coast and inland waterways. Key Responsibilities The Barge Quality inspector will be responsible for inspecting, evaluating, maintaining, and documenting the condition of tank barges. This position will identify deficiencies, coordinate repairs with engineering and operations teams, follow correct actions through completion ensuring all assigned vessels meet the requirements of the cargoes being carried.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED
Valid Driver’s License
Current Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC/MMD)
Dangerous Liquids (DL) and Liquid Gas (LG) endorsements
Basic computer proficiency
Strong communication and organizational skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to travel on short notice, including evenings, weekends, and extended assignments as business needs require
Current TWIC Card or ability to obtain one immediately
Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds on a regular basis and occasionally move heavier equipment with assistance or mechanical lifting devices.
Ability to operate valves, hand tools, testing equipment, pumps, and other mechanical devices requiring manual dexterity and grip strength.
Ability to distinguish colors, read gauges, inspect mechanical components, identify leaks or defects, and complete detailed visual inspections in varying lighting conditions.
Ability to hear alarms, radios, vessel communications, and equipment operating sounds in noisy industrial environments.
Ability to work while wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hats, safety glasses, steel-toed boots, gloves, hearing protection, respirators, life jackets, and fall protection equipment.
Ability to safely perform inspections while working at heights, over water, and around moving mechanical equipment.
Ability to sit, drive, and travel for extended periods between ports, terminals, and customer locations.
Ability to perform repetitive inspection and documentation activities using computers, tablets, and handheld electronic devices.

Nice To Haves

Experience as a Tankerman, Deck Officer, Marine Inspector, or related maritime position
Mechanic and troubleshooting experience
Knowledge of tank barge cargo systems and marine equipment
Familiarity with USCG regulations and industry standards

Responsibilities

Conduct detailed inspections of barge equipment and systems
Start and test barge engines, pumps, alarms and associated equipment
Verify operational readiness using company procedures, tankerman checklists, and industry best practices
Inspect Cargo systems included: Cargo Valves, Check Valves, Pressure Relief Valves, Pump Systems, Other vessel equipment based on barge configuration
Inspect hulls, decks, and void spaces for damages, contamination, spills, debris, and other deficiencies
Ensure vessel meets customer specifications and operational requirements
Perform internal CDOF (Clean, Dry, Odor Free) barge cleanliness inspections including: Cargo Tanks and all associated piping, equipment, fittings and openings, Cargo and vapor piping below and above deck, Deep well, Other parts of cargo system that may affect cargo quality
Troubleshoot Diesel Engines, Gearboxes and Drive Shafts, Cargo Pumps including Deep Well, Centrifugal and Positive Displacement Pumps, Electric Pump Systems, Volcanic Heaters and Related Equipment
Recommend repairs and coordinate with maintenance and engineering teams as needed
Complete Inspection reports, checklists, and condition assessments
Verify Vessel Documentation is accurate and compliant
Maintain records demonstrating that barges are ready for service and meet operation requirements
Support specific project and operation needs as assigned by management
Assist in continuous improvement efforts related to safety, maintenance, and quality assurance