Trip Pilot - La Porte, TX
Posted on October 24, 2025
Marquette Transportation Company, headquartered in Paducah, Kentucky, has been an established leader in inland marine transportation services since its founding in 1978. As one of the largest operators in the industry, Marquette manages a fleet that includes over 130 towboats and controls more than 1,000 dry cargo barges. The company operates primarily across the Mississippi River System, the Gulf-Intracoastal Waterway, and the near-shore coastwise markets, providing vital transportation and logistics support to a variety of industries. With additional offices located in St Rose, Louisiana; Lockport, Louisiana; and La Porte, Texas, Marquette employs over 1,800 vessel and shore-based personnel, making it the largest provider of independent towing services on the inland waterways.
Marquette takes pride in its fully integrated fleet and the ability to offer comprehensive and efficient services that meet the complex demands of inland marine transportation. The company’s commitment to safety, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence is evident in its rigorous management policies and comprehensive training programs. As a vital player in the sector, Marquette is continuously expanding and enhancing its operations by investing in technology, infrastructure, and highly skilled personnel.
The role of Captain/Pilot at Marquette is a critical leadership position that demands responsibility, vigilance, and expert knowledge in inland marine navigation and vessel management. The Captain is entrusted with the safe and efficient operation of the vessel and its tow, including the overall performance of the crew. This role requires upholding company policies, maritime laws, and regulatory frameworks to ensure a secure working environment for all personnel and the safe transport of cargo.
Captains at Marquette play a key role in fostering a culture of safety by conducting monthly drills and safety meetings and ensuring work is completed in accordance with the company's safety procedures. The Captain is responsible for crew instruction and monitoring their performance, in addition to managing the vessel's budget and supervising general vessel operations. A significant part of the role involves managing vessel security protocols as the designated vessel security officer and ensuring compliance with the Crew Endurance Management System.
The Captain must have a comprehensive understanding of cargo, including hazardous materials, and communicate necessary information to crew members and other key stakeholders. Effective communication extends to coordinating with land-based personnel, the United States Coast Guard, lock authorities, and inland river vessel movement centers.
Marquette seeks candidates who are not only skilled navigators but also effective team leaders capable of maintaining operational integrity and compliance with stringent marine regulations. Being able to adapt to physical demands such as climbing steep stairs and enduring long hours seated or standing is essential. Additionally, travel flexibility is required as captains must move between vessels and training locations. Holding a valid USCG Master of Towing Vessel license and meeting physical examination standards are mandatory.
Joining Marquette means becoming part of a dynamic and diverse workforce that values inclusion and equal opportunity. The company is committed to providing a supportive work environment where qualified individuals from all backgrounds can thrive and contribute to the company’s ongoing success. Marquette offers career development in a stable industry with long-term growth prospects, ensuring that employees are well-equipped to maintain high standards of operational excellence and safety.
                - High school diploma or equivalent
 - valid USCG Master of Towing Vessels license endorsed for service
 - meet USCG physical examination requirements
 - valid driver's license
 - active TWIC card
 - ability to climb steep stairs
 - ability to sit or stand for long periods
 - willingness to travel to vessel and training locations