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Tug Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Tug Mate/Captain of Towing

New York, NY · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Tug Mate of Towing OVERVIEW Since 1977, Miller's Launch's most important goal is to please customers on, near or across the waters in New York (NY), New Jersey (NJ) and Connecticut (CT). Since then ...

Position Summary The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of tug boats and marine vessels supporting heavy civil, bridge, dredging, marine construction ...

Position Summary The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of tug boats and marine vessels supporting heavy civil, bridge, dredging, marine construction ...

Position Summary The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of tug boats and marine vessels supporting heavy civil, bridge, dredging, marine construction ...

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Required Technology Unlimited Group (TUG) is seeking a highly motivated Senior C++ Software Engineer to support the development and integration of Command, Control, Communications, Computers and ...

Position Summary The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of tug boats and marine vessels supporting heavy civil, bridge, dredging, marine construction ...

GARNEY As a Tug Boat Operator in Buford, GA at Garney Construction, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of truckable tugboats to assist in the maneuvering barges for marine ...

GARNEY As a Tug Boat Operator in Buford, GA at Garney Construction, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of truckable tugboats to assist in the maneuvering barges for marine ...

GARNEY As a Tug Boat Operator in Buford, GA at Garney Construction, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of truckable tugboats to assist in the maneuvering barges for marine ...

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How much do tug jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug in the United States is $21.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Tugboat Operator, you need a strong understanding of maritime navigation, vessel handling, and safety procedures, usually supported by a relevant license such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Familiarity with marine communication systems, towing equipment, and GPS navigation technology is essential. Excellent teamwork, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe and efficient maneuvering of vessels, protecting crew, cargo, and the environment in busy port and harbor operations.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a tugboat operator and how do they interact with other maritime professionals?

Tugboat operators are primarily responsible for maneuvering large vessels, such as ships and barges, safely in and out of harbors, docks, and through narrow waterways. A typical day involves monitoring weather and water conditions, maintaining communication with port authorities, pilots, and ship captains, and ensuring the tug and its equipment are in good working order. Tugboat operators work closely with deckhands and engineers on board, as well as with external crews, to coordinate towing, docking, and undocking procedures. This role requires strong teamwork, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to respond quickly to changing situations.

What are tugs?

Tugs, also known as tugboats, are specialized vessels designed to maneuver other vessels by pushing or towing them. They are commonly used in harbors, ports, and canals to assist ships in docking, undocking, and navigating through tight or crowded areas. Tugs are equipped with powerful engines and are highly maneuverable, making them essential for moving large ships that can't easily navigate these spaces on their own.

How much money do you make working on a tugboat?

Tugboat captains and crew members typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and vessel size. Entry-level positions may start around $40,000, while experienced captains can earn higher salaries, especially with overtime and certifications such as STCW. The job often involves shift work and safety training.

What is the difference between Tug vs Crane Operator?

AspectTugCrane Operator
CredentialsMaritime licenses, certifications in vessel operationCrane operation certifications, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentMaritime, dockyards, portsConstruction sites, industrial facilities, ports
Industry UsageShipping, logistics, port operationsConstruction, manufacturing, shipping

While both Tug and Crane Operator roles involve heavy machinery, Tug operators primarily work on water, maneuvering vessels in ports and harbors, requiring maritime certifications. Crane Operators work on land, operating cranes in construction or industrial settings, with certifications focused on crane safety. Both roles are essential in port and shipping industries but differ mainly in environment and specific skills.

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What states have the most Tug jobs? States with the most job openings for Tug jobs include:
Tug Mate/Captain of Towing

Tug Mate/Captain of Towing

MILLERS TUG AND BARGE INC.

New York, NY • On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

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Job description

Tug Mate of Towing

OVERVIEW

Since 1977, Miller's Launch's most important goal is to please customers on, near or across the waters in New York (NY), New Jersey (NJ) and Connecticut (CT). Since then we have had vessels work up and down all coasts of the US as well as internationally. The Company policy has always been to conduct its business in such a way to strive for excellence in safeguarding employees, equipment, the public and environment, zero harm to people, zero incident and zero spill. The Company recognizes that it is vital, and essential to integrate safety into all operations and activities.

From the solitary launch passenger to the largest corporate accounts, our prime objective is customer satisfaction through our "can-do" attitude. For Miller's Launch, there is no such thing as after-hours. We serve the port of the Tri-State Area 24 hours a day, providing prompt response and stellar marine support.

Miller's Launch's marine professionals and top-notch equipment will assure the success of your task. Our personnel are federally licensed operators, certified welders, custom fabricators and fully trained and certified pollution and environmental specialists. Miller’s Launch operates a fleet of about 70 pieces of floating equipment including but not limited to: offshore supply vessels, tugboats, crew boats, utility boats, launch boats, small work boats, rib boats, roll-on roll-off systems, barges and cranes.

Miller’s Launch isn’t just supply boats, tugboats or launch boats we adapt to our clients’ needs and wants. From moving heavy equipment or trucks on and off islands, to offshore wind support, emergency oil spill response, to film/photo/drone shoots and productions.

Our business is the water.

POSITION:

Millers Launch Inc. is seeking a qualified individual to fill a full-time position as a Tug Mate, working a two week on two week off rotation. The successful candidate will be responsible for the management and documentation of widespread safety, health and environmental policies for the vessel. This individual will be responsible for the vessel’s compliance with local, state, federal and international laws and regulations pertaining to navigation, safety, health, and environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Work as directed by Towing and/or project personnel

· Stand wheelhouse watch on the assigned vessel

· Comply with all state and federal regulatory requirements

· Responsible for executing MT&B Towing Safety Management System (TSMS) aboard the assigned vessel

· Preparation, management, and facilitation of safety meetings and safety drills

· Complete Job Safety Analysis (JSA) and or Activity Hazard Analysis (AHA)

· Delegate daily tasks to the crew to ensure operational readiness

· Oversees training and mentoring of crew members

· Follows company and work site safety policies/procedures and commits to an “incident and injury-free” work environment

· Responsible for the safe transportation of barges vessels and crew

· Responsible for maintenance and cleanliness of tug and barge

· Direct crew in the performance of drills

· Determine the need for and assign lookouts as necessary

· Prepare, monitor, and update vessel work lists and maintenance schedules

· Ensure all crewmen are performing their duties

· Work aboard boats and barges using heavy lines, winches, mechanical tools for repairs as needed

· Perform other duties as assigned

REQUIREMENTS:

· 5+ years total experience with at least 2+ years of experience in a Mate role

· Merchant Mariners Credentials (MMC) Master 100 Ton Near Coastal

· Mate of Towing endorsement

· Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

· CPR/AED First Aid Certification

· Driver's License

· Knowledge of NY Harbor a Plus

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

· Must be able to tolerate rough seas, vibrations, heat, harsh weather conditions, confined spaces, and high noise levels

· Work will frequently require individuals to push, pull, bend or stand for long periods of time, and climb ladders that have capacity limits of 300 lbs.

· Must be able to lift or carry miscellaneous equipment, supplies, and parts up to 50 lbs. unassisted

· Ability to maneuver through/in/around small and/or confined areas within a vessel, as applicable Must be able to maintain both static and dynamic standing balance to complete various duties associated with the job

· Must be capable of performing emergency duties as listed in the vessel’s station bill when onboard a vessel

BENEFITS:

Miller’s Launch offers excellent benefits for medical, dental, vision, 401k with employer match, and PTO.

Millers Launch is an equal-opportunity employer.

Company Description

Providing First-Class Marine Service Since 1977.
Miller's Launch and its affiliated companies Miller Marine, Miller's Tug and Barge and Miller's Towing and Salvage are marine support companies with local offices on the East Coast and the Gulf Coast. Our Local knowledge helps us provide the best marine support that our customers have come to depend on.