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Mate Towing Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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Mate Towing information

How to become a mate on a tugboat?

To become a mate on a tugboat, you typically need to gain experience as a deckhand or able seaman, obtain relevant certifications such as STCW and first aid, and accumulate sufficient sea time. Advancement to a mate position requires demonstrating leadership skills, knowledge of navigation and safety procedures, and often passing licensing exams specific to maritime authorities.

What is the difference between Mate Towing vs Tow Truck Operator?

AspectMate TowingTow Truck Operator
CredentialsDriver's license, towing certificationDriver's license, towing certification
Work EnvironmentRoadside assistance, towing vehiclesOperating tow trucks, roadside recovery
Employer & IndustryTow companies, roadside assistance servicesTow companies, roadside recovery services
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing towing roles or seeking towing jobsPeople looking for tow truck operator roles or job info

Both Mate Towing and Tow Truck Operators require similar certifications and work in roadside assistance environments. While Mate Towing often refers to entry-level or assisting roles, Tow Truck Operators typically operate the trucks directly. Both roles are essential in the towing industry and are often searched together by job seekers or customers needing roadside help.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mate towing, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mate Towing, you need a solid understanding of maritime navigation, safety procedures, and towing operations, typically supported by a U.S. Coast Guard Mate license and relevant sea service experience. Familiarity with navigation systems (like GPS and radar), communication equipment, and towing gear is essential. Leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for coordinating crew and ensuring safe operations. These skills are vital to ensure the vessel’s safety, compliance with regulations, and the successful execution of towing assignments.

What are some common challenges faced by a mate towing and how can they be managed effectively?

A Mate Towing often encounters challenges such as coordinating with the captain and crew during tight maneuvers, responding to changing weather or water conditions, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. Effective communication and strong situational awareness are essential to anticipate and address potential hazards. Building experience with navigation, emergency procedures, and teamwork helps mates manage these challenges and contribute to a safe and efficient towing operation.

What is a mate towing?

Mate Towing jobs refer to positions on towing vessels where the Mate assists the Captain in navigating and operating the boat, managing the crew, and ensuring the safe transport of barges or other towed vessels. The Mate is responsible for watchkeeping, supervising deck operations, and maintaining safety procedures on board. This role typically requires specialized training, a Merchant Mariner Credential, and knowledge of maritime regulations. Mates on towing vessels play a crucial role in the safe and efficient movement of goods and materials over water.
What are popular job titles related to Mate Towing jobs in Indiana? For Mate Towing jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mate Towing jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Mate Towing jobs in Indiana are:
Mate Towing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mate Towing job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

Inland Wheelman

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Jeffersonville, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

American Commercial Barge Line rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

ACBL is currently seeking Captains as well as Pilots for their mainline vessels.   This position has primary responsibility for the safety of vessel employees, the vessel, cargo and the environment.  This position is for our vessels that work primarily in the Canal; however you must be able to work throughout the Inland river system.  This position will work 28 days on the vessel and be off 14 days (28/14) or 28 days on the vessel and off 28 days (28/28).

Your Responsibilities - How You Will Make an IMPACT!

  • Ensure that work completed during his/her watch is done in accordance with Company safety policies and practices
  • Navigate the vessel safely at all times
  • Ensure all crew members on vessel receive instruction on how to do jobs properly and monitor performance
  • Carry out all duties assigned under the Vessel Security Plan as the designated vessel security officer
  • Ensure that each crew member knows the cargo of each barge in tow and has an understanding of any hazards associated with said cargoes. CFR 35.05-15b
  • Enforce all Company policies and vessel specific guidelines in support of the Crew Endurance Management System onboard all vessels
  • Participate in crew management, performance evaluation, general supervisory duties and management of the vessel’s budget
  • Complete required log entries
  • Maintain radio watch as required
  • Report Certain Dangerous Cargoes (CDC) barges at pick-up, drop-off, and designated mile points to the Inland River Vessel Movement Center
  • Enforce all rules
  • Give assignments and direction to the mate and/or lead deckhand
  • Comply with all established vessel management policies and procedures
  • Maintain the vessel budget and help maximize cost efficiency as directed
  • Provide instructions and information to crew members, ACBL land-based personnel, USCG or lock personnel

Job Qualifications - What You Will Bring to the ACBL Team

  • Must meet USCG physical examination requirements
  • Must be able to travel to and from vessel / training locations via air or car travel (must possess a valid driver’s license)
  • Must be able to work one of the following schedules: 28/28 or 28/14
  • Must be able to work a 6 hour on 6 hour off watch or 12 hour watches
  • Must have experience pushing barges (tows of 6 or more preferred)
  • Must be able to climb steep stairs, sit or stand for long periods of time
  • Must be able to ride in or pilot a crew boat or zodiac to get to/from towing vessel
  • Must be able to work in all weather conditions
  • Must maintain valid USCG licensing
  • Master of Towing Vessels upon Western Rivers license required
  • Must have an Inland Waters or Near Coastal Endorsement
  • Maintain an active TWIC

What American Commercial Barge Line employees say

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