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Push Boat Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

NOVA Parks

Senior Maintenance Specialist

Ashburn, VA

$20/hr

Mow grass using a variety of equipment that may include push mowers, tractors, bush hogs, boom ... Perform facility maintenance such as repairing picnic tables, repairing boat motors, applying paint ...

NOVA Parks

Senior Maintenance Specialist

Ashburn, VA · On-site

Mow grass using a variety of equipment that may include push mowers, tractors, bush hogs, boom ... Perform facility maintenance such as repairing picnic tables, repairing boat motors, applying paint ...

Cni

Small Craft Specialist

Quantico, VA · On-site

Maintains and manages the MCSC boat locker and related equipment. * Supports fielding and ... Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects. Use stomach and lower back muscles to ...

County of Culpeper, VA

FIRE/EMS INSTRUCTOR

Culpeper, VA · On-site

$35/hr

... ambulance, boat, trailer, dive equipment, defibrillator, suction unit, oxygen delivery system ... Tasks require the ability to lift, carry or push items more than 100 pounds and may involve a ...

County of Culpeper

FIRE/EMS INSTRUCTOR

Culpeper, VA · On-site

$35/hr

... ambulance, boat, trailer, dive equipment, defibrillator, suction unit, oxygen delivery system ... Tasks require the ability to lift, carry or push items more than 100 pounds and may involve a ...

Tractor Supply Company

Team Member, Petsense

Martinsville, VA · On-site

$11.50 - $14.75/hr

Ability to push and pull merchandise up to 2,000 pounds with the assistance of proper material handling equipment (e.g. pallet jack, dolly or U-boat). * Ability to successfully complete all required ...

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All JobsPush Boat JobsPush Boat Jobs in Virginia

Push Boat information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$25

$48

How much do push boat jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for push boat in Virginia is $25.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $30.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a push boat?

A Push Boat job involves operating or assisting in maneuvering a specialized vessel designed to push barges on rivers and waterways. Crew members handle navigation, maintenance, and ensure safe transport of cargo. Responsibilities vary based on the role, from captains piloting the vessel to deckhands securing tow lines and performing upkeep. These jobs require physical endurance, teamwork, and knowledge of maritime safety regulations. Many positions also require certifications like a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) or specific endorsements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the push boat position?

To excel as a Push Boat operator, you need experience in marine vessel operation, a valid U.S. Coast Guard credential (such as a Master of Towing or Mate of Towing license), and a solid understanding of river navigation rules. Familiarity with navigation electronics, deck machinery, and safety systems is essential for safe and efficient operations. Strong communication, leadership, and situational awareness help facilitate teamwork and ensure safety on board. These skills are vital for maneuvering large barges, coordinating with crews, and responding effectively to changing river conditions.

What are typical work schedules and environments like for push boat operators?

Push Boat operators often work in rotations, such as 20 days on followed by 10 days off, with shifts usually ranging from 6 to 12 hours a day, including night and weekend hours. The environment is primarily on the water, navigating rivers or inland waterways, and conditions can vary with weather and river traffic. You’ll collaborate closely with deckhands, engineers, and supervisors to ensure safe barge movements and routine vessel maintenance. This role requires adaptability to extended time away from home, a focus on safety, and teamwork in a close-quarters setting. Those who enjoy hands-on work in dynamic settings and value camaraderie often find this career rewarding.

Do push boat workers make good money?

Push boat workers, also known as tugboat operators, typically earn a competitive salary that varies based on experience, location, and certifications. On average, they can make between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with higher earnings possible for experienced operators or those working in specialized environments. The job often requires physical stamina, navigation skills, and safety training.

What are popular job titles related to Push Boat jobs in Virginia?

For Push Boat jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Push Boat jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Push Boat jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Push Boat jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Push Boat job openings:

Push Boat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Push Boat job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,072 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Deckhand

Project Management Quality Services

Newport News, VA • On-site

$20.66 - $27.31/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Pay: $20.66 - $27.31/Hourly
Per Diem: $120+/Daily
Location: Newport News, VA
Duration: 2+ Years
Background Check and Drug Test Required
U.S. Citizenship Required
Required Experience:
  • High school graduate or equivalent
  • Minimum of two years' experience on tugboats
  • Must have a specialized knowledge of local winds, current tides reading, and weather and shipping hazards.
  • Must possess strong communication, interpersonal and leadership skills
  • Must possess a thorough technical knowledge of the tug boats, and Ship movement, and have a solid educational base, generally gained through working as a Tug Boat Deck Hand

General Duties & Responsibilities:
Deckhands work aboard tugboats towing barges under the direction and supervision of the Captain and/or Mate. They perform a variety of hands-on physical duties, often on unstable marine platforms and in all kinds of inclement weather. Given the nature of the job, deckhands require strength, flexibility, dexterity, and balance to perform their functions safely. Deckhands are required to be capable of lifting and carrying a variety of equipment. They must be unrestricted in their capabilities to pull, push, climb and walk onboard tugs, barges and piers.
Duties that Deckhands are expected to perform are:
• Making sure all necessary towing gear is in good order, properly stowed, and ready for use.
• Making sure tug and barge equipment is in good operating condition.
• Making sure barges are moored safely along piers and ships
• Making sure all hatches are properly secured to prevent ingress of water.
• Knowing where all emergency equipment is located and ensuring first aid kit is fully stocked.
• Act as lookout during the navigation of a tug.
• Perform periodic checks of the engine room and including the bilges, fluid levels on main and auxiliary engines and gear boxes, and battery water levels.
• Keep all areas of the tug in a clean, organized, and safe condition.
• Take direction from the Captain or the Mate as required.
The anticipated salary range represents the estimated base pay for this role. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors, and may vary from the posted range

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