1

Assistant Tugboat Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Port Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$120K/yr

This is a great opportunity for a tugboat Chief Engineer looking to transition to a shoreside ... WHAT YOU'LL DO: • Assist Engineering Manager with Vessel Engineers & Engineering Support Staff ...

Licensed Engineer

Port Arthur, TX · On-site

$54.16 - $62.04/hr

Starting in 1860 as a tugboat company, we have grown from those roots to become a dominant provider ... Third Assistant Engineer or greater. * Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC)

McAllister Towing has provided superior tugboat service to New York Harbor since 1864, when Captain ... In addition to ship docking services and general harbor assist work, New York based tugs are ...

McAllister Towing has provided superior tugboat service to New York Harbor since 1864, when Captain ... In addition to ship docking services and general harbor assist work, New York based tugs are ...

McAllister Towing has provided superior tugboat service to New York Harbor since 1864, when Captain ... The Licensed Engineer is an experienced skilled crewmember on board the vessel's Engineering ...

McAllister Towing has provided superior tugboat service to New York Harbor since 1864, when Captain ... In addition to ship docking services and general harbor assist work, New York based tugs are ...

Dean is seeking a Captain's Assistant. This position reports to the Ship Captain and has ... Excellent maintenance, engineering and technical / troubleshooting experience * Ability to remain ...

Relief Mate

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$25/hr

... the 1930 tugboat W.O. Decker . They serve as a teacher and leader of the crew. They create and ... Occasional trips beyond New York Harbor on both operational vessels with similar programming occur ...

CAPTAIN

Little Rock, AR

$175K - $200K/yr

Coordinates with airplane Flight Test Engineer (FTE), Safety Inspectors (SI), and appropriate ... Flight crew for DFJC customer acceptance, ferry, and delivery flights. Assist in Certification ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Assistant Tugboat Engineer information

See salary details

$33K

$88.8K

$134.5K

How much do assistant tugboat engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant tugboat engineer 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 are some common challenges faced by Assistant Tugboat Engineers during daily operations?

Assistant Tugboat Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining engine performance in varying weather conditions, troubleshooting mechanical issues under time pressure, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. They must quickly adapt to unexpected repairs while at sea and work closely with the Chief Engineer and deck crew to coordinate maintenance tasks. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as well as the ability to work in confined spaces and manage fatigue during long shifts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Tugboat Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Tugboat Engineer, you need a solid understanding of marine engineering principles, engine maintenance, and repair, often supported by a relevant maritime engineering qualification or Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Familiarity with marine propulsion systems, auxiliary equipment, and diagnostic tools is essential, as is compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and attention to detail help you excel in the dynamic and sometimes hazardous environment of tugboat operations. These competencies are crucial for ensuring vessel reliability, operational safety, and the efficient support of maritime activities.

What are Assistant Tugboat Engineers?

Assistant Tugboat Engineers are maritime professionals who support the chief engineer in maintaining and operating the mechanical and electrical systems aboard tugboats. Their responsibilities include assisting with engine maintenance, troubleshooting mechanical issues, monitoring fuel and lubricant levels, and ensuring all systems function safely and efficiently. They often work in challenging conditions and must comply with strict safety and environmental regulations. This role is crucial for the smooth operation of tugboats, which help maneuver larger vessels in ports and harbors.

What is the difference between Assistant Tugboat Engineer vs Deckhand?

AspectAssistant Tugboat EngineerDeckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Engine Room CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Basic Seamanship
Work EnvironmentEngine room, technical maintenanceDeck, exterior of vessel, cargo handling
ResponsibilitiesAssist engine maintenance, monitor machineryDeck operations, mooring, cargo

The Assistant Tugboat Engineer primarily focuses on engine room tasks and machinery maintenance, requiring technical certifications. In contrast, a Deckhand handles deck operations and cargo tasks. Both roles are essential in tugboat operations but differ in technical scope and daily duties.

What cities are hiring for Assistant Tugboat Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Tugboat Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tugboat Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Tugboat Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Tugboat Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Tugboat Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Tugboat Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Tugboat Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Assistant Tugboat Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,754 per year, or $42.7 per hour.

$54.16 - $62.04/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Moran Towing Corporation (www.morantug.com) has an opportunity available for a Licensed Engineer, for Moran Port Arthur/Beaumont.This is a full-time position.

Moran Towing Corporation is one of the oldest companies in America and has prospered by continuously reinventing itself for over 160 years. Starting in 1860 as a tugboat company, we have grown from those roots to become a dominant provider of commercial ship docking services, marine transportation, LNG support operations, environmental recovery, and commercial diving services. While economies, cultures, markets, and technology will always continue to evolve, our steadfast commitment to partnering with our employees and customers to solve our customers' marine requirements has enabled us to stay the course year after year.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Engineer reports to the Captain or his/her designee as appropriate.The engineer has primary responsibility for the maintenance and operation of all machinery, associated systems and spaces.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Familiarizing himself or herself with the current operational status upon joining a boat with the off-going engineer.
  • Properly turning over his/her duties to his/her relief.
  • Reporting unsafe situations or opportunities for improvement.
  • Completing general and planned maintenance schedules.
  • Keeping the Captain and shoreside management apprised of all conditions, including requirements for maintenance, which may adversely affect the vessel or its operating schedule.
  • Maintaining accurate and complete engine log, maintenance, and engine records.
  • Monthly fuel and lube oil reporting.
  • Supervising the procurement, loading, use, and transfer of:
    • Potable and ballast water,
    • Fuel oil,
    • Lube oil.
  • When acting as PIC, complete and sign proper entries on the Declaration of Inspection form, and in the vessels Oil Transfer Procedure.
  • Monitoring the quality and condition of engineering supplies.
  • Maintaining inventories of adequate spare parts and tools.
  • Working on deck, including ship docking and tug mooring operations.
  • Acting as a lookout.
  • Other duties as designated by the Captain or his/her designee.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC) with endorsement of Designated Duty Engineer Unlimited, Third Assistant Engineer or greater.
  • Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • STCW certification (if required for service).
  • USCG 719k Physical examination meeting Merchant Mariner Medical certification.
  • Pre-Employment Drug Screening.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Maritime experience working aboard a vessel.
  • USCG engineering license.
  • Excellent communication skills.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • Work safely in a marine setting.
  • Walk, sit, or stand for extended periods of time.
  • Frequently reach with hands and arms.
  • Frequently crouch or stoop.
  • Climb/descend stairs and ladders.
  • Occasionally lift and/or carry up to 60 lbs.
  • Occasionally enter and work in enclosed spaces.
  • Withstand exposure to environmental conditions such as heat, rain, cold and or/humidity.

IN RETURN, WE OFFER:

  • Competitive compensation
  • Career development opportunities
  • Team-oriented work environment
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Health Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Company paid Life, AD&D, and Long-Term Disability Insurance Plans
  • Employee Assistance, Health Advocate, and Wellness Programs
  • Generous 401(k) Plan with employer non-elective, matching, and discretionary contributions
  • Company paid Financial Advice Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program

PAY TRANSPARENCY:

Moran Towing Corporation offers generous benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and competitive salaries based on geographic location. Our target pay range for the Licensed Engineerposition is $54.16 - $62.04per hour. This pay range represents Moran's commitment to pay transparency and is a reasonable estimate of possible compensation for this role at the time of posting. The final salary for this role will be determined based on careful consideration of a variety of factors, such as the candidate's exact location, experience, and expertise related to the qualifications.

Moran Towing Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, or other legally protected status.