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Boat Towing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ergon, Inc

Fuel Boat Pilot

East Alton, IL · On-site

Complete Towing Vessel Record each shift which includes the following: * Engine Room Log * Fuel Operations Log * Pre-Sail Check List When a Fuel Boat Pilot is assigned the task of training an ...

Ergon, Inc.

Fuel Boat Pilot

Wood River, IL · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Complete Towing Vessel Record each shift which includes the following: * Engine Room Log * Fuel Operations Log * Pre-Sail Check List * When a Fuel Boat Pilot is assigned the task of training an ...

Ergon, Inc

Fuel Boat Pilot

East Alton, IL · On-site

Complete Towing Vessel Record each shift which includes the following:Engine Room LogFuel Operations LogPre-Sail Check ListWhen a Fuel Boat Pilot is assigned the task of training an upcoming pilot ...

Heidelberg Materials

Boat Pilot

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

## Boat PilotPostulerlocations: Romeoville, ILtime type: Temps pleinposted on: Offre publiée aujourd ... Previous experience in the barge towing industry required. • US Coast Guard Master of Towing ...

Staffing Associates

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Boat Mechanic

Spartanburg, SC · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Comfortable towing and maneuvering a boat trailer * Able to confidently launch and retrieve boats * Comfortable operating a boat on a lake for testing purposes * Able to work independently and ...

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Boat Towing information

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How much do boat towing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat towing in the United States is $22.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is boat towing?

Boat towing refers to the process of pulling or transporting a disabled, stranded, or non-operational boat using another vessel or a specialized towing service. This service is often used when a boat experiences engine failure, runs aground, or encounters other issues on the water. Professional boat towing companies use specialized equipment and follow safety protocols to ensure the safe and efficient movement of boats to docks, marinas, or repair facilities. Boat towing can also include emergency response and recovery services for recreational and commercial vessels.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a boat towing operator?

To thrive as a Boat Towing Operator, you need strong seamanship, navigational skills, and typically a valid USCG captain's license or equivalent credentials. Familiarity with marine radios, GPS navigation systems, towing equipment, and basic marine engine maintenance is essential. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and customer service skills set top operators apart when assisting boaters in distress. These abilities ensure safe, efficient operations and positive outcomes in often challenging and unpredictable marine environments.

What are some common challenges faced by boat towing professionals on the job?

Boat towing professionals often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, navigating crowded or unfamiliar waterways, and handling boats of various sizes and conditions. Working with distressed boaters requires strong communication and problem-solving skills to ensure safety and efficient service. Additionally, coordinating with marinas, coast guards, and other crews is a regular part of the job, making teamwork and adaptability essential traits for success.

What is the difference between Boat Towing vs Marine Transport Driver?

AspectBoat TowingMarine Transport Driver
CredentialsBoat handling licenses, towing certificationsCommercial driver’s license (CDL), transportation certifications
Work EnvironmentMarinas, waterways, docksRoadways, ports, shipping yards
Industry UsageRecreational and small commercial boatsLarge cargo and vessel transport

Boat Towing involves moving boats over water or short distances, often requiring boat handling skills and waterway knowledge. Marine Transport Drivers focus on transporting larger vessels or cargo via road or water, requiring commercial driving licenses and logistics expertise. While both roles involve vessel movement, Boat Towing is more water-centric, whereas Marine Transport Drivers operate mainly on roads or in port environments.

How much do you make working on a boat towing?

Boat towing jobs typically pay between $12 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the company. Some positions may offer additional compensation for on-call hours or specialized skills such as navigation or safety certifications.

How to become a boat towing driver?

To become a boat towing driver, you typically need a valid driver's license, a commercial driver's license (CDL) if required, and experience operating towing equipment or large vehicles. Some employers may also require knowledge of boat handling, safety procedures, and relevant certifications such as first aid or water safety training.
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What cities are hiring for Boat Towing jobs?

Cities with the most Boat Towing job openings:

What states have the most Boat Towing jobs?

States with the most job openings for Boat Towing jobs include:

Boat Towing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boat Towing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $47,733 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Fuel Boat Pilot

Ergon, Inc

East Alton, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Ergon Inc. rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 87 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Fuel Boat Pilot

Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a  Fuel Boat Pilot at its Wood River, IL,  location.

If you are a hard-working person who enjoys helping others and taking pride in your physical accomplishments, this job might be a good fit for you. EMIS services vessels and tows, and this job allows you to be a part of that support of the river crews.

Ergon is a family-owned oil and gas company based in the Jackson, MS area with facilities across the US. EMIS is a subsidiary with facilities that support marine traffic up and down the Mississippi River. Our facilities are located in Vicksburg, MS, Wood River, IL,  and Memphis, TN.

Ergon offers a competitive benefits package: 401(k) Matching, Health, Life, Dental, Holidays, Vacation, Sick Leave, Tuition Assistance, and Profit Sharing

The Fuel Boat Pilot ensures the safe and efficient operation and performance of his crew, vessel, and tow in a manner that complies with company policy, U. S. Coast Guard rules and regulations, and federal, state, and local laws. 

Fuel Boat Pilot Responsibilities include the following:

  • Ensure that company policy, rules and regulations are followed.

  • Report violations of EMIS company policy or violations of federal, state or local laws.

  • Ensure deck crew are performing their duties.

  • Inspect all areas of the vessel and tow to ensure safety, proper maintenance, and a clean vessel is ready for voyage.

  • Provide customer service according to the EMIS Mission Statement.

  • Captain has the right to reject of any tow configuration or barge.

  • Ensure all crewmembers on EMIS vessels and docks are using Proper PPE.

  • Assist other operations as required by management.

  • Maintain EMIS fleets and equipment, documenting fleet checks every six hours or as per MARSEC levels.

  • Inspect all barges according to the Dry Cargo/Chemical Barge Inspection Report, notify a supervisor immediately of any damage, and take appropriate measures to ensure safety.

  • Responsible for reviewing the tow orders and determining whether the boat is of sufficient horsepower.

  • Report incidents immediately to appropriate supervisor and enter in vessel logs.

  • Order supplies as needed.

  • Ensure fire extinguishers are recharged or refilled as required for each type of extinguisher.

  • Ensure fire hose with nozzle is at each fire station.

  • Ensure dewatering pumps are on board the vessel and ready for use.

  • Ensure adequate number of approved life preservers are on board.

  • Ensure adequate quantity of first aid supplies onboard the vessel.

  • Ensure crewmembers are properly trained in emergency procedures including fire drills.

  • Chip, Buff, Prime and paint vessel and equipment as needed.

  • Complete Towing Vessel Record each shift which includes the following:

    • Engine Room Log
    • Fuel Operations Log
    • Pre-Sail Check List

    When a Fuel Boat Pilot is assigned the task of training an upcoming pilot the current pilot is considered the "Master of the Vessel" and is responsible for and will be held accountable for the actions of the trainee in the performance of their duties.

    Captain is required to have a safety briefing with crew prior to engaging in any barge tow work, barge movement activity or fuel transfers. This briefing must be documented in the towing vessel record.

Fuel Boat Pilot Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED

  • Must have a U.S. Coast Guard license as Master of Towing Vessels/Limited Master of Towing

  • Must have sufficient time with EMIS to prove competence and leadership skills as determined by the Vice President, for promotion from within the company

  • Must be able to swim

  • Valid TWIC Card (Transportation Workers Identification Credential)

  • Must have a valid driver's license

We are an EEO/AAP employer.

Position: Fuel Boat Pilot


Employment offer contingent upon pre-employment drug test, background check, and MVR.

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