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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 ... 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 ...

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 ...

... performance. * Assist in preparing and maintaining LNG Marine Operating Manuals. * Develops ... engineering and management of marine shipping and/or tugboat activities, with progressive ...

... performance. * Assist in preparing and maintaining LNG Marine Operating Manuals. * Develops ... engineering and management of marine shipping and/or tugboat activities, with progressive ...

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Assistant Tugboat Engineer information

See salary details

$33K

$88.8K

$134.5K

How much do assistant tugboat engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 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.

More about Assistant Tugboat Engineer jobs
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:
Port Engineer

Port Engineer

Curtin Maritime

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Efficiency. Innovation. Integrity. These are our 3 Pillars. At Curtin Maritime, these core values are the framework for safe performance and operational excellence; proof of these pillars is evident in our people and our fleet. For 25 years, Curtin Maritime has been an industry leader in quality maritime solutions. With current and upcoming projects expanding rapidly, we are looking to utilize your expertise to support us in accelerating our organizational growth.
TRAVEL REQUIRED
THIS ROLE:
Curtin Maritime is looking for innovative thinkers who have a high level of accountability, ownership, and take pride in their work. This is a great opportunity for a tugboat Chief Engineer looking to transition to a shoreside position, but this is not required. The preferred candidate will have a minimum of 5 years of experience in an engineering position, or similar mechanical aptitude, on tugboats and must have strong computer and administrative skills. Experience in the management of vessel drydockings, and actual hands-on mechanical skills on a wide variety of equipment is ideal. The position is based in Long Beach, CA.
The Port Engineer will work hand in hand with Engineering Manager and collaborate with team to meet below responsibilities and tasks.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
• Assist Engineering Manager with Vessel Engineers & Engineering Support Staff (Shoreside Mechanics/Welders)
• Support implementation of Engineering policies and procedures
• Purchasing related to normal vessel operations
• Enforcement of Helm Connect related to engineering tasks
• Assist as directed with all Engineering and Marine Transportation department needs
Assist in Management of Vessel Engineers
• Coordinate with Senior Port Engineer in assigning tasks to vessel engineers
• Secondary Point of Contact for Vessel Engineers
• Enforce Tasks are completed in timely manner
• Ensure Parts Requests are completed and delivered to vessel
Vessel Operation and Engineering
• Assist in management of work plans for the fleet through Helm Connect
• Attend vessel drydock periods, report on progress and budgets
• Assist in mobilization and outfitting efforts of vessels going on long-term or specialty jobs
Support Development and implementation of Engineering policies, procedures, and training
• Enforce Engineering policies and procedures for all vessels
• Actively participate in training programs
Purchasing related to normal vessel operations
• Liaison with purchasing department
• Review requisitions relating to engineering before Senior Port Engineer approval
• Assist in determining vendors and tracking specific parts
Helm Connect related to engineering operations
• Ensure all planned and completed tasks are input in Helm Connect
• Ensure all staff are utilizing Helm Connect properly
WHO YOU ARE:
Mental Aptitudes
• Ability to handle stressful situations with focus.
• Understanding importance and taking pride and responsibility in mastering the small things, before mastering the big ones.
• Understand and respect the chain of command. Ability to take direction no matter how it is given.
• Continuously demonstrate a strong sense of responsibility and ownership by being pro-active in all situations/tasks.
Physical Aptitudes
• The employee must meet physical requirements including but not limited to, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, climbing up/down ladders and stairs, negotiating uneven and moving surfaces
• Able to work in confined spaces and carry heavy tools for extended periods of time
• Must be able to pull heavy lines/hoses, lift, carry heavy items, climb onto barges and up and down ladders.
• Must be comfortable entering tanks and other confined spaces
• Must be able to work in difficult conditions with exposure to all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, wind, heat, etc.)
• Must be comfortable working aboard boats and barges using heavy lines, winches, and mechanical tools for repairs
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds unassisted.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to work when exposed to odors, dust, dirt, mechanical hazards, high noise levels, and potentially hazardous equipment.
Minimum Qualifications
• At least 5 years of related experience
• TWIC Card
WHAT WE OFFER:
• Competitive Compensation
• Generous benefits package including Medical (Dental, Vision, STD & AD&D/Life Insurance at no cost for employee's coverage) with additional option to elect incremental Life Insurance for employee and dependents and choice to elect Health and/or Dependent Flexible Spending Account
Curtin Maritime is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.