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Mate Towing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Mate's duties will include safe operation of vessels during appointed shifts, oversight of ... The safety of the towing vessel is the responsibility of the master and includes: o Adherence to ...

The Mate's duties will include safe operation of vessels during appointed shifts, oversight of ... The safety of the towing vessel is the responsibility of the master and includes: o Adherence to ...

Mate

New Haven, CT · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

While the towing industry is often dynamic, Buchanan Marine LP is a transportation organization ... General Expectations As a Mate, you will be working and living aboard during your on-hitch period.

It is the responsibility of the Mate to see that all deck operations and procedures are carried out ... towing vessel. 8. Stand a diligent watch and safely navigate the vessel in accordance with ...

It is the responsibility of the Mate to see that all deck operations and procedures are carried out ... towing vessel. 8. Stand a diligent watch and safely navigate the vessel in accordance with ...

It is the responsibility of the Mate to see that all deck operations and procedures are carried out ... towing vessel. 8. Stand a diligent watch and safely navigate the vessel in accordance with ...

Mate

Bayonne, NJ · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mate of Towing Endorsement Near Coastal. * Radar observer endorsement and Coast Guard approved firefighting training. * Ability to understand and use information in cargo information cards and ...

Mate

Bayonne, NJ · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mate of Towing Endorsement Near Coastal. * Radar observer endorsement and Coast Guard approved firefighting training. * Ability to understand and use information in cargo information cards and ...

MATE- Anchorage Harbor

Anchorage, AK · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Mate of Towing 200 GT - We are Alaska's tug andbarge company- and are growing. Cook Inlet Tug & Bargehasprovidedmarine services since 1924. We specialize in harbor services throughout South Central ...

MATE- Anchorage Harbor

Anchorage, AK · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Mate of Towing 200 GT - We are Alaska's tug and barge company - and are growing. Cook Inlet Tug & Barge has provided marine services since 1924. We specialize in harbor services throughout South ...

Direct deck operations including line handling, towing equipment operation, vessel mooring, and ... Mate of Towing Vessels endorsement or ability to obtain through company qualification requirements ...

Direct deck operations including line handling, towing equipment operation, vessel mooring, and ... Mate of Towing Vessels endorsement or ability to obtain through company qualification requirements ...

Tugboat Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$600 - $675/day

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Looking for Mate of Towing with experience working with dredging operations. * Work schedule is 28 days on and 14 days off * Paid travel to and from the vessel from closest major airport to residence

Tugboat Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$600 - $675/day

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Looking for Mate of Towing with experience working with dredging operations. * Work schedule is 28 days on and 14 days off * Paid travel to and from the vessel from closest major airport to residence

Tugboat Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$600 - $675/day

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Looking for Mate of Towing with experience working with dredging operations. * Work schedule is 28 days on and 14 days off * Paid travel to and from the vessel from closest major airport to residence

Showing results 21-40

Mate Towing information

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$11

$22

$40

How much do mate towing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for mate towing in the United States is $22.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
More about Mate Towing jobs
What cities are hiring for Mate Towing jobs? Cities with the most Mate Towing job openings:
What states have the most Mate Towing jobs? States with the most job openings for Mate Towing jobs include:
Infographic showing various Mate 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 $46,000 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Temporary

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Description
Position Summary:
The Mate's duties will include safe operation of vessels during appointed shifts, oversight of vessel staff, and supervision of offloading of all cargos, communication with the main office, reporting to the vessel Captain, and to work under direction of the Vitus Marine Port Captain. The 1st Mate will provide direction to the crew, including setting crew schedules, directing crew as required with assignments of maintenance, cooking, cleaning, watch standing, and other such activities required to be implemented by the Master. Provide safety leadership as well as confirm vessel and crew compliance with company policy and procedures. Conducting fire and boat drills, maintains records of stores and equipment in the deck department and approves requisitions.
The standard work schedule is continuous from April through October for seasonal Alaska operations; however, this work schedule may vary. The seven days per week daily work schedule is usually divided into two six-hour watches, for a total of a 12-hour work day. The forward watch is from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m., and 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. The after watch runs from 12 noon to 6 p.m. and 12 a.m. to 6 a.m. Hours for the call watch may vary according to the operational demands of the vessel.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Collaborate with management on vessel delivery schedules
  • Maintain regular communication with Vitus Marine Management team, Contractors and other Vessels as required
  • Share information with other Vitus vessels to ensure safe and profitable operation including, but not limited to routes, local knowledge and contacts.
  • Maintenance planning and execution as well as supervising contractors when necessary
  • Complete prescribed paperwork as outlined by managements & vessel documents, including but not limited to
    • Vessel Inspections
    • AWO Requirements
    • USCG Sub-Chapter M Requirements
    • Trip Reconciliation Forms
    • Expense Reports
  • Assist with customer and supplier notification / coordination
  • Ensure vessel orientation training of crews
  • Represent company to regulatory agencies and personnel as needed
  • Plan and schedule vessel crew changes with Port Captain and Operations Support Specialist
  • Facilitate shore side response to vessel needs for repairs, parts & supplies
  • Cook for crew when requested by the vessel Master
  • Any other duties as required to ensure safe and efficient vessel operations
  • Must be able to work a rotating six hours on and six hours off watch schedule, and occasionally work different hours when necessary
  • Must be able to adhere to all company policies, United States Coast Guard and environmental regulations
  • The safety of the towing vessel is the responsibility of the master and includes: o Adherence to the provisions of the COI;
    • Compliance with the applicable provisions of USCG Subchapter M;
    • Compliance with the TSMS, if one is applicable to the vessel; and
    • Supervision of all persons onboard in carrying out their assigned duties.
  • If the master or officer in charge of a navigational watch believes it is unsafe for the vessel to proceed, that an operation endangers the vessel or crew, or that an unsafe condition exists, he or she must ensure that adequate corrective action is taken and must not proceed until it is safe to do so.
  • Nothing in this subpart may be construed in a manner which limits the master or officer in charge of a navigational watch, at his or her own discretion, from diverting from the route prescribed in the COI or taking such steps as deemed necessary and prudent to assist vessels in distress or for other emergency conditions.

Other Job Responsibilities:
  • Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:
  • High school diploma, or equivalent
  • USCG issued Mate 100 Ton Near Coastal license with radar endorsement
  • TOAR/Mate of Towing
  • Prefer USCG issued MATE 500 or 1600 Ton Oceans license w/radar endorsement
  • Prefer Tankerman/PIC endorsement
  • Relevant towing experience
  • Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC)
  • Drug-free certification

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:
  • Effective problem solving skills
  • Ability to communicate clearly, verbally and written
  • Ability to read, write and speak English
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide all units of measure
  • Ability to deal with a variety of variables in situations where limited standardization exists

Education:
  • High school diploma, or equivalent

(1 year of directly related work experience may qualify to substitute 1 year of education to meet the education requirement)
Required Training & Certificates:
  • USCG issued Mate 100 Ton Near Coastal license with radar endorsement
  • TOAR/Mate of Towing
  • Prefer USCG issued MATE 500 or 1600 Ton Oceans license w/radar endorsement
  • Prefer Tankerman/PIC endorsement
  • Attends training sessions, seminars and appropriate educational classes required by department.
  • Computer skills commensurate with program and job applications.

Physical Demand/Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly type, talk and hear. The employee is frequently required to sit, stand, walk, reach with arms and hands, climb or balance, and to stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee must ascend and descend portable ladders or fixed stairs. The employee is regularly required to communicate with other vessels, Coast Guard stations, Corps of Engineers, lockmasters and their own crewmembers. Communications may be made via VHF radio, orally, by sound signals or by hand signals. The employee must be able to hear and communicate effectively in the conditions that might be encountered aboard a towboat. The employee must regularly lift and/or move 25 pound and occasionally items in excess of 100 pounds. Visual Acuity: must be adequate to safely operate the vessel in situations that are likely to occur when a boat is in navigation night and day, year round. The employee must be able to recognize color coded objects such as navigation lights, signals, and symbols, as well as warning lights or symbols. Depth perception must be adequate for navigation in close quarters, including lock or bridge approached. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate and may be loud on occasion. Work is usually done on a marine vessel and sometimes at a client facility, often out-of-doors, sometimes in extreme weather conditions, requiring the use of personal protective equipment to include, but not limited to; a reflective vest, steel toed boots, safety glasses with side shields and mandatory hearing protection. The employee must be capable of hearing alarms, unusual noises in operating machinery, signals from the boat and signals from passing vessels. The employee must be able to communicate with boat or dock personnel by radio, telephone, and voice communications. The employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts, vehicles and equipment, high, precarious places, fumes or airborne particles, risk of electrical shock and vibration. The employee may be required to travel by a variety of conventional and non-conventional modes.
Disclaimer: The above job description covers the principal duties and responsibilities of the job. The description shall not however, be construed as a complete job listing of all duties, which may be required from day
Vitus Energy, LLC is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.