ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Port Towing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

T. Parker Host

Port Engineer

Braithwaite, LA

Port Engineer Status: Full-Time, Exempt Company: Host Terminals, LLC Reports To: Marine Manager ... Minimum 200-ton with towing endorsement * Previous towing experience on push boats on the ...

T. Parker Host

Port Engineer Status: Full-Time, Exempt Company: Host Terminals, LLC Reports To: Marine Manager ... Minimum 200-ton with towing endorsement * Previous towing experience on push boats on the ...

MILLERS TUG AND BARGE INC.

Be Seen First

Port Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

The Port Engineer will play a key role in planning and executing maintenance projects, supervising ... Towing and Salvage are marine support companies with local offices on the East Coast and the Gulf ...

McAllister Towing

Licensed Engineers

Norfolk, VA

McAllister Towing of Virgina has been in the port of Hampton Roads for roughly 50 years, serving Yorktown, Piney Point, Hampton Roads, Norfolk, and the Chesapeake area with unsurpassed towing and ...

McAllister Towing

Licensed Engineers

Norfolk, VA · On-site

McAllister Towing of Virgina has been in the port of Hampton Roads for roughly 50 years, serving Yorktown, Piney Point, Hampton Roads, Norfolk, and the Chesapeake area with unsurpassed towing and ...

McAllister Towing

Captains

Baltimore, MD · On-site

McAllister Towing has been a steadfast contributor to the port's success since 1980, providing the Upper Chesapeake Bay and surrounding areas with outstanding docking, undocking, towing, dredge ...

McAllister Towing

Captains

Baltimore, MD

McAllister Towing has been a steadfast contributor to the port's success since 1980, providing the Upper Chesapeake Bay and surrounding areas with outstanding docking, undocking, towing, dredge ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPort Towing Jobs

Port Towing information

See salary details

$13

$22

$40

How much do port towing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for port 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 the difference between Port Towing vs Port Crane Operator?

AspectPort TowingPort Crane Operator
Required CredentialsCommercial driver's license, maritime trainingCrane operation certification, OSHA training
Work EnvironmentMaritime, on water, tugboats, port areasPort terminals, onshore, crane cabins
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, port authoritiesPort terminals, logistics companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Port Towing involves operating tugboats to move ships or barges within port areas, requiring maritime skills and licenses. Port Crane Operators focus on operating cranes to load and unload cargo, requiring specialized certification. Both roles are essential in port logistics but differ in environment and skill set.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Port Towing Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Port Towing Operator, you need strong seamanship skills, knowledge of maritime regulations, and usually a valid captain’s license or maritime certification. Proficiency in using navigation systems, tow winches, VHF radios, and tugboat handling equipment is essential. Excellent situational awareness, teamwork, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for safely maneuvering vessels in busy port environments. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe, efficient, and timely movement of ships, preventing accidents and supporting port operations.

What are some common challenges faced by port towing professionals and how can they be managed?

Port towing professionals often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, tight maneuvering spaces, and coordinating with multiple vessels and port authorities. Effective communication and strong teamwork are essential to manage these situations safely and efficiently. Adhering to safety protocols and participating in regular training also help in minimizing risks and ensuring smooth operations. Staying adaptable and proactive in addressing mechanical or scheduling issues further contributes to success in this dynamic environment.

What is port towing?

Port towing refers to the service of moving ships, boats, or other vessels within a harbor or port using tugboats or other specialized equipment. This process is essential for guiding large vessels safely to docks, berths, or out of the port, especially when maneuvering in tight spaces or challenging conditions. Port towing ensures the efficient and safe handling of maritime traffic, preventing accidents and facilitating the smooth operation of shipping activities. Tug operators and crew must be skilled in navigation, communication, and safety procedures. The job often requires coordination with harbor authorities and other maritime professionals.
More about Port Towing jobs
What cities are hiring for Port Towing jobs? Cities with the most Port Towing job openings:
What states have the most Port Towing jobs? States with the most job openings for Port Towing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Port Towing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Port Towing jobs are:
Port Towing jobs near you
Shoreside Port Captain

Shoreside Port Captain

Centerline Logistics Corporation

Seattle, WA • On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Overview
Directly supervise, hire, train and evaluate marine personnel. Conduct Tug Inspections, attend SIRE inspections, and conduct evaluations and navigation audits of Deck Officers via direct observations on board. Develop marine operations and cost control programs for vessels. Assist in new project development, interfacing with customers, etc. Assist in vessel scheduling of personnel as required. Produce weekly Operations reports.
Responsibilities
  • Supervise Captains, Mates, and Deck Crews.
  • Ensure that vessels and crews are following and complying with State and Federal regulations.
  • Ensure that crews are following and complying with company policies.
  • Conduct Management Vessel Inspections on repair and maintenance standards and procedures.
  • Ensuring that vessels are SIRE ready.
  • Assist in scheduling of SIRE's
  • Perform incident investigations.
  • Manage Compliance with company safety program.
  • Prompt and correct response to operating situations.
  • Perform inspections of vessels on repair & maintenance standards and procedures.
  • Recruitment, performance reviews and auditing of marine personnel.
  • Develop and administer operating & cost control procedures on company vessels.
  • Assist in new project development.
  • Interface with customers on an ongoing basis.
  • Operate company vessels as Captain if directed by President, Vice President, or Director of Marine Operations.
  • Accident & Spill Free Operations
  • Training, professional skill development of marine personnel
  • Monitor safety record of vessels and crew
  • Development of company operating procedures and acceptance by Vetters.
  • Perform in the company Spill Management team as assigned
  • Perform other related duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • Five (5) years at sea as Master on tugboats, tankers or oil barges or equivalent military experience.
  • Four (4) year college education in Maritime or related studies or equivalent experience preferred.
  • Valid US Coast Guard Master's license on offshore towboats 200T Minimum/Master of Towing Endorsement.
  • ATB Operational experience strongly preferred
  • 500T Minimum Master of Towing preferred.
  • Extensive knowledge of the tugboat and oil transportation industry.
  • Must be thoroughly familiar with tank barge, ship and terminal/refinery operations.
  • Knowledge of tug and barge maintenance systems and equipment.
  • Complete a 24 hour HAZWOPER (including Incident Command System) training within 6 months of being hired.
  • First Aid/CPR training.
  • STCW Certification.
  • Valid State Driver's license.
  • Ability to get along with office staff and vessel crew members.
  • Maintain the confidentiality of all sensitive communications.
  • Able and willing to travel to the out ports.
  • Ability to work with others using courtesy, tact, and good judgment.
  • Ability to understand and execute complex oral and written instructions.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal or no guidance.
  • Typing: 40 wpm.
  • Computer Skills: Word, Excel and Outlook.
  • Must be able to read, speak, write type and understand English in person and over the phone.

Job Condition and Environment
  • Capable of making decisions and giving directions to facilitate prompt service delivery.
  • Must be physically fit enough to board barges and tugs at sea and in port.
  • Frequently required to board tugs, barges, and ships, at dock or at anchor in all weather conditions and at all hours.

Expected Hours of Work
  • Normal office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
  • Take communications 24 hours a day, including weekends concerning changes in schedules and conditions.

Company Overview
Centerline Logistics is a leading provider of marine transportation services in the United States. Centerline Logistics operates on the United States West Coast (including Alaska and Hawaii), United States East Coast (including Puerto Rico), the United States Gulf Coast and the Mississippi River System. Services provided include the transportation and storage of petroleum products, tanker escort, ship assist, the transportation of general cargo and rescue towing. Centerline Logistics is the parent company of eight businesses specializing in marine services and a bulk liquids terminal business. Centerline Logistics provides accounting, administrative, human resources, safety and environmental services, and other support to the subsidiary companies.
The Company offers Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and AD&D options to our employees and their eligible dependents after meeting Company requirements. 401(k) options, Disability Insurance, sick pay, vacation pay, 10 paid holidays per calendar year (subject to work schedule) and Healthcare and/or Dependent Care FSAs are also available to our employees after meeting Company requirements. All benefits information may be subject to change based on any current or updated benefit plan year changes and/or Collective Bargaining Agreements.
We are an Equal Employment Opportunity and Drug Free Work place. Pre-employment drug testing is required.

Apply