1

Assistant Engineer Tug Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Port Engineer

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$103K - $114K/yr

... support to the tug Captains & Engineers. Effective communication, coordination and personnel ... Ensures Assistant Port Engineer has identified goals to satisfactorily meet job requirements.

CaptainHarbor Assist TowingDetroit, MI / Toledo, OH (Consolidated Port) | Minimum 3-4 Years ... with the Engineer to ensure tugs are maintained and repaired to a seaworthy and safe ...

... met. * Assist the Engineering Department in developing cost effective projects to optimize ... draw, haul or tug objects in a sustained motion. * Lifting. Raising objects up to 25 pounds ...

... met. * Assist the Engineering Department in developing cost effective projects to optimize ... draw, haul or tug objects in a sustained motion. * Lifting. Raising objects up to 25 pounds ...

This position interfaces with all Area Port Captains and Area Port Engineers, (as necessary) to ... Assist barge-loading personnel with the tug's resources and equipment. 9. Conduct crew safety ...

This position interfaces with all Area Port Captains and Area Port Engineers, (as necessary) to ... Assist barge-loading personnel with the tug's resources and equipment. 9. Conduct crew safety ...

This position interfaces with all Area Port Captains and Area Port Engineers, (as necessary) to ... Assist barge-loading personnel with the tug's resources and equipment. 9. Conduct crew safety ...

In addition to ship docking services and general harbor assist work, New York based tugs are ... tug and towing operations require the Engineer to be physically qualified to ensure his/her own ...

Assist Port Captain in supporting vessel Masters and Barge Captains in maintaining valid ... Forecast and monitor respective Tug/Barge fleet operations expenses.Coordinate and keep Port ...

Port Engineer

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

... Assist Port Captain in supporting vessel Masters and Barge Captains in maintaining valid ... Forecast and monitor respective Tug/Barge fleet operations expenses. Coordinate and keep Port ...

... Assist Port Captain in supporting vessel Masters and Barge Captains in maintaining valid ... Forecast and monitor respective Tug/Barge fleet operations expenses. Coordinate and keep Port ...

Port Engineer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

... * Assist Port Captain in supporting vessel Masters and Barge Captains in maintaining valid ... Forecast and monitor respective Tug/Barge fleet operations expenses. * Coordinate and keep Port ...

Showing results 41-60

Assistant Engineer Tug information

See salary details

$33K

$88.8K

$134.5K

How much do assistant engineer tug jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant engineer tug in the United States is $88,754.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,500.00 and $104,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant engineer tug?

Assistant Engineer Tugs are maritime professionals who support the Chief Engineer in maintaining and operating the mechanical and electrical systems aboard a tugboat. Their responsibilities include routine maintenance, troubleshooting equipment issues, and ensuring that the vessel's propulsion and auxiliary systems are functioning safely and efficiently. They work closely with the engineering team to keep the tugboat operational and assist during towing operations. This role is essential for the smooth running of the vessel and the safety of its crew.

What does an assistant engineer tug do daily, and how do they support the vessel’s operations?

As an Assistant Engineer Tug, your daily responsibilities include assisting with the maintenance, repair, and monitoring of the tugboat’s engines and mechanical systems. You’ll conduct routine inspections, manage fuel and lubrication levels, and ensure all safety protocols are followed in the engine room. Collaboration with the Chief Engineer and deck crew is essential for smooth operations, especially during towing maneuvers and emergency situations. This role is hands-on and requires strong troubleshooting skills as well as the ability to work effectively under pressure in a team-oriented environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant engineer tug, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Engineer Tug, you need a solid understanding of marine engineering principles, mechanical systems, and relevant maritime certifications such as a Coast Guard-issued license or STCW endorsement. Familiarity with engine room operations, maintenance management systems, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills are important for ensuring smooth vessel operations and responding to emergencies. These abilities are crucial for maintaining safe, efficient tugboat performance in demanding marine environments.

What is the difference between Assistant Engineer Tug vs Assistant Engineer Marine?

AspectAssistant Engineer TugAssistant Engineer Marine
Required CredentialsEngineering diploma or degree, marine engineering certificationEngineering diploma or degree, marine engineering certification
Work EnvironmentOperate and maintain tugboat machinery, onboard vesselMaintain engines and systems on various marine vessels
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, tugboat operatorsShipping lines, offshore companies, marine transport
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Assistant Engineer Tug and Assistant Engineer Marine roles share similar credentials and work environments, focusing on marine engineering tasks. The main difference lies in the specific vessels they serve; Tug roles are specialized for tugboats used in harbor and port operations, while Marine roles cover a broader range of vessels. Both positions are essential in maritime industries and often searched together by job seekers interested in marine engineering careers.

How much is the salary of an assistant engineer?

The salary of an assistant engineer varies depending on the industry, location, and experience, but it typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. In fields like engineering and technical services, assistant engineers often start with entry-level salaries and may receive additional benefits such as overtime pay and training opportunities.

What does an assistant engineer tug do on a tugboat?

An assistant engineer on a tugboat is responsible for maintaining and operating the engine room machinery, ensuring the vessel's propulsion and auxiliary systems function properly. They perform routine inspections, repairs, and troubleshooting, often working under the supervision of the chief engineer. This role requires technical skills, knowledge of marine engines, and adherence to safety protocols.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Engineer Tug jobs?

For Assistant Engineer Tug jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Assistant Engineer Tug job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,754 per year, or $42.7 per hour.

Able Bodied Seafarer (AB)

Lake Charles, LA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Prepare the tug and deck machinery to enable the tug to get underway, perform work, or conduct maintenance.

  • Monitor the performance, safety, and cleanliness of the tug, its decks and lower holds, ground tackle, lines and hawsers.

  • Perform maintenance on all assigned equipment and systems under the direction of the master, mate, Marine Superintendent, or management.


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Free food & snacks
  • Health insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Profit sharing
  • Training & development
  • Tuition assistance
  • Vision insurance

Role Objectives: The role of Able Bodied Seafarer (AB) is to serve as lead deckhand to assist the tug Master in the timely, efficient, and orderly operation and management of the company’s tug.  This position is for nationwide offshore towing operations working a 21/21 schedule. AB must hold the appropriate and unexpired Merchant Mariner Credential, STCW Basic Training, Medical Credential, and Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card.  The AB must be familiar with and dedicated to the safety, environmental health, security, and maintenance standards of the crew, vessel and company.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Preparing the tug and deck machinery to enable the tug to get underway, perform work, or conduct maintenance,
  • Monitoring the performance, safety, and cleanliness of the tug, its decks and lower holds, ground tackle, lines and hawsers, including but not limited to handling lines on deck,
  • Performing maintenance on all assigned equipment and systems under the direction of the master, mate, Marine Superintendent, or management,
  • Assisting in the engine room, in sanitary duties, with interior and topside maintenance, taking on water, fuel and lubes, or otherwise as needed and directed,
  • Contributing to unity, good order, and discipline among the crew, 
  • Training other crewmembers on company policies and procedures,
  • Ensuring that company policies and procedures are followed,
  • Actively participating in drills, training, company meetings and on board safety evolutions, and enhancing the safety and security posture of the vessel,
  • Assisting in vessel orientation for new crewmembers,
  • Reporting deficiencies in the vessel or crew to the engineer and/or master,
  • Maintaining a professional attitude during operations and whenever dealing with customers, partners or company personnel,
  • Other appropriate tasks and duties as may be assigned from time to time by company officials or the master.
Skill Requirements:
  •  Manual dexterity,
  • Effectively communicate both orally and in writing,
  • Strong problem solving ability and responsiveness,
  • Good spatial orientation,
  • Effective social adaptability, interpersonal skills and resilience.
Knowledge Requirements:
  • Vessel operations as would be gained by at least one year of direct, hands-on experience in the Deck Department aboard towing vessels in domestic service, or similar experience,
  • Minimum unexpired credential of National Able Bodied Seafarer (AB) Limited. 
  • Minimum STCW Basic Safety Training 
Education:
  • High School Diploma (or GED or High School Equivalence Certificate)
Additional Qualifications:
  • TWIC card and driver’s license required,
  • Must reside in vicinity of Lake Charles, LA or surrounding area. be willing and able to relocate to that area at own expense. 
Physical Requirements:
  • Worker will exert up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, up to 50 pounds of force frequently and up to 20 pounds of force constantly.
  • Work onboard vessels in the offshore environment. 
  • Requires hearing, talking, grasping quickly, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, crawling and swimming.
  • Worker is required to have the ability to see details at a distance and depth perception to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away, or to judge the distance between him/her and an object.  Must have normal color vision.
  • The worker is subject to environmental conditions with no protection from weather. 
  • The worker is subject to noise, vibration, hazards, and is frequently in close quarters and small enclosed area and is required to function in small vessels.