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Temporary Tug Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Summer/Winter Internship is a temporary training position in one of McAllister Towing's ports ... Performs cleaning and maintenance as assigned by the Captain. * Accountable for personal hygiene ...

$448/day

Brice Marine LLC Temporary Pay Range: $448 daily rate Why choose us? As a proud subsidiary of ... Clean the tug and barges. * Assist with the handling of fuel and freight. * Act as lookout and ...

... a harbor tug boat. The primary function is to build and break tows during the process of ... Inspect, correct if possible, and notify the Captain of any conditions, which will affect the ...

Brice Marine LLC Temporary JOB SUMMARY: The Ordinary Seaman holds a position as entry-level ... Cleans the tug and barges and assists with the handling of fuel and freight. * Act as lookout and ...

Temporary Tug Captain information

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$9

$37

$76

How much do temporary tug captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary tug captain in the United States is $37.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $41.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Temporary Tug Captain vs Permanent Tug Captain?

AspectTemporary Tug CaptainPermanent Tug Captain
CertificationsRequired certifications are similar, including STCW and TWICSame certifications as temporary, often with additional company-specific training
Work EnvironmentShort-term assignments, variable locations, project-basedLong-term employment, consistent work location
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by maritime contractors, shipping companies for specific projectsEmployed directly by shipping lines or port authorities
Search & Comparison IntentHigh overlap in credentials and work environment, often compared for flexibilityFocuses on job stability and benefits

Both Temporary Tug Captains and Permanent Tug Captains require similar certifications and work in maritime environments. The key difference lies in employment type: temporary roles are project-based with short-term assignments, while permanent roles offer long-term stability. Understanding these differences helps candidates choose the right position based on their career goals and preferences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Temporary Tug Captain, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Temporary Tug Captain, you need a valid captain's license (such as a USCG Master of Towing Vessels endorsement), strong navigational skills, and experience in vessel operations. Familiarity with tug-specific equipment, GPS navigation systems, and safety management protocols is typically required. Leadership, quick decision-making, and effective communication are critical soft skills for coordinating crew and responding to changing conditions. These abilities ensure safe, efficient vessel maneuvering and successful teamwork in high-pressure maritime environments.

What are Temporary Tug Captains?

Temporary Tug Captains are licensed mariners hired on a short-term or seasonal basis to operate tugboats. They are responsible for navigating and maneuvering tugboats to assist with towing, docking, or moving ships and other vessels, usually in harbors or at sea. The 'temporary' designation means they fill in for permanent staff during absences, busy periods, or special projects. These captains must hold appropriate maritime licenses and have knowledge of local waterways and safety procedures. Their duties often involve close coordination with crews, port authorities, and other vessels to ensure safe and efficient operations.

What are some common challenges a Temporary Tug Captain might face when joining a new crew or worksite?

As a Temporary Tug Captain, one of the main challenges is quickly adapting to different vessels, crews, and operational procedures at each new assignment. Each tugboat and company may have unique safety protocols, communication styles, and local navigational hazards to consider. Building rapport with a new crew in a short timeframe is crucial for effective teamwork and safe operations. Temporary captains are often expected to demonstrate flexibility, strong leadership, and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure while ensuring compliance with maritime regulations.
More about Temporary Tug Captain jobs
What cities are hiring for Temporary Tug Captain jobs? Cities with the most Temporary Tug Captain job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tug Captain jobs? The most popular types of Tug Captain jobs are:
What states have the most Temporary Tug Captain jobs? States with the most job openings for Temporary Tug Captain jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Temporary Tug Captain jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Temporary Tug Captain jobs are:
Infographic showing various Temporary Tug Captain job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 67% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 9% Temporary, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $77,625 per year, or $37.3 per hour.
Tug Boat Captain

Tug Boat Captain

Vulcan Materials Company

Prince George, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Vulcan Materials rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

329th of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

Build Your Career. Build America's Future.
Vulcan Materials Company is the nation's largest producer of construction aggregates and a major producer of aggregate-based construction materials, including asphalt and ready-mixed concrete. Joining Vulcan is more than starting an exciting career-you get to make a difference for millions of people every day across the country.
When you join Vulcan, you join a dynamic culture in which career development is encouraged, excellence is rewarded, and diversity is valued. No matter the role or the location across the country, every member of the Vulcan team lives through the Vulcan Way: doing the right thing, the right way, at the right time .
Job Overview :
We are seeking an experienced Harbor Tug Boat Captain to join our team. The captain will be responsible for maneuvering and shifting barges carrying construction aggregates (stone, sand, and gravel) in harbor and terminal operations. This role requires strong leadership skills to manage crew members effectively, ensuring efficient and safe vessel operations in compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations and company policies.
What You'll Do:
Harbor Tug Operations: Safely operate and navigate the tugboat to shift, dock, and undock barges in confined harbor and terminal environments.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensure adherence to USCG regulations, safety procedures, and company policies, including record-keeping and reporting requirements.
Crew Leadership: Direct and supervise crew members, oversee performance, and conduct weekly crew safety training.
Pre-Shift Inspections & Maintenance Oversight: Conduct pre-voyage inspections, monitor vessel performance, and coordinate routine maintenance to ensure the vessel remains in top working condition.
Barge Handling & Mooring: Oversee and assist in securing barges at loading and offloading facilities, ensuring proper handling and positioning.
Communication & Reporting: Maintain accurate logbooks, reports, and real-time communication with dispatch and company leadership.
Emergency Response: Respond to onboard mechanical issues or emergency situations as needed.
Champion Safety. Per MSHA, OSHA, and Vulcan standards, take an active role in prioritizing safety for yourself and others throughout the operation at all times. Maintain responsibility for the safe and efficient day-to-day operation of the harbor vessel and crew.
Qualifications
Skills and Qualifications You'll Need :
Minimum 200-Ton Master of Towing USCG-issued License with radar endorsement (Required).
Experience operating a tugboat in harbors, rivers, and bays.
Strong understanding of barge maneuvering, mooring, and dockside operations.
Proficiency in navigating shallow waters and maneuvering a tug with a tow through bridges.
Strong leadership and team management skills.
Ability to work in physically demanding conditions and respond to emergencies effectively.
What You'll Like About Us :
Great Company Culture. Our people share a competitive drive for excellence in an environment of trust, teamwork, open-mindedness, and communication.
Safe. Industry leader in health and safety standards. We are committed to creating a safe work environment and protecting all employees and customers.
Meaningful Work. What sets us apart is that our work impacts daily lives - and every employee contributes.Our aggregates produced are used to build roads, schools, hospitals, airports, and housing throughout the United States .
Health Benefits. Medical, Dental, and Vision programs, plus much more .
Rest and Relaxation. Paid vacation, personal floating days, and paid holidays.
Prepare for the Future. 401(k) with company match and contribution.
Training and Development. We see our development programs and helping our employees meet their goals as critical to our business.
Hourly Range:the hourly range for this role is between $30.00- $40.00. This range is not inclusive of our discretionary bonus or equity package. When determining a candidate's compensation, we consider a number of factors, including skillset, experience, job scope, and current market data.
Vulcan Materials Company is committed to employing a diverse workforce. You will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability. You also have the right to be free from discrimination for medical needs arising from pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.
NOTICE TO TEMPORARY STAFFING AGENCIES, PLACEMENT SERVICES, AND PROFESSIONAL RECRUITERS: Vulcan Materials Company has an internal recruiting department. Please review our policy regarding using temporary staffing agencies, placement services, and professional recruiters.

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