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Tug Boat Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vulcan Materials Company

LineHaul Tug Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$650 - $750/day

Inspect Boat and Other Equipment. Perform daily inspections and maintenance of the vessel ... Must have previous experience operating a tug boat in rivers and/or bays with multiple barges ...

Archer Daniels Midland

$263/day

ADM is seeking a laborer to work as a deckhand under the direction of a Captain on a tug boat at ... Ability to follow direction and execute tasks under the supervision of captain or mate * Inland ...

Archer Daniels Midland

ADM is seeking a laborer to work as a deckhand under the direction of a Captain on a tug boat at ... Ability to follow direction and execute tasks under the supervision of captain or mate * Inland ...

Archer Daniels Midland

ADM is seeking a laborer to work as a deckhand under the direction of a Captain on a tug boat at ... Ability to follow direction and execute tasks under the supervision of captain or mate * Inland ...

Archer Daniels Midland

ADM is seeking a laborer to work as a deckhand under the direction of a Captain on a tug boat at ... Ability to follow direction and execute tasks under the supervision of captain or mate * Inland ...

Archer Daniels Midland

$236/day

ADM is seeking a laborer to work as a deckhand under the direction of a Captain on a tug boat at ... Ability to follow direction and execute tasks under the supervision of captain or mate * Inland ...

Archer Daniels Midland

ADM is seeking a laborer to work as a deckhand under the direction of a Captain on a tug boat at ... Ability to follow direction and execute tasks under the supervision of captain or mate * Inland ...

Curtin Maritime

Deckhand Trainee

Long Beach, CA · On-site

Work 6 months a yearwhile earning$80,000k+ once you reach Deckhand/Mate/Captain Level ! As your ... Due to the diverse nature of our work, new employees can purse a career on a tug boat, from ...

Centerline Logistics Corporation

Mate, OTB

Seattle, WA · On-site

$686/wk

Overview Acts as second in command of the tug and barge. Must be able to understand and carry out ... boat/barge tie up. * Work aboard boats and barges using pike poles, heavy lines, winches ...

Centerline Logistics Corporation

Mate

Bayonne, NJ

Acts as second in command of the tug and barge. Must be able to understand and carry out the orders ... boat/barge tie up. * Work aboard boats and barges using pike poles, heavy lines, winches ...

Centerline Logistics Corporation

Mate, OTB

Seattle, WA

$600 - $686/hr

Acts as second in command of the tug and barge. Must be able to understand and carry out the orders ... boat/barge tie up. * Work aboard boats and barges using pike poles, heavy lines, winches ...

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Tug Boat Mate information

See salary details

$15

$34

$76

How much do tug boat mate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug boat mate in the United States is $34.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Tug Boat Mate during daily operations?

Tug Boat Mates often encounter challenges such as navigating in adverse weather conditions, coordinating closely with captains and crew to ensure safe vessel maneuvering, and adapting to rapidly changing schedules or assignments. They must remain vigilant and responsive to dynamic port environments, where quick decision-making and clear communication are essential. Additionally, balancing routine maintenance tasks with operational duties can require effective time management and teamwork.

What are Tug Boat Mates?

Tug Boat Mates are licensed maritime professionals who assist the captain in operating and navigating tugboats, which are vessels used to maneuver larger ships in harbors, rivers, and other confined waterways. Their duties include overseeing deck operations, managing crew members, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and helping with navigation and communication. Tug Boat Mates play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of vessels, especially during docking and undocking procedures.

What is the difference between Tug Boat Mate vs Deckhand?

AspectTug Boat MateDeckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, TWIC cardSTCW Basic Safety, TWIC card
Work EnvironmentOn tugboats, near ports and waterwaysOn ships, offshore platforms, or vessels
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist in maneuvering tugboats, safety checksGeneral vessel maintenance, cargo handling

Both Tug Boat Mates and Deckhands require similar certifications and work in maritime environments. Tug Boat Mates typically have additional responsibilities related to maneuvering tugboats and safety operations, whereas Deckhands focus on general maintenance and cargo tasks. The roles are closely related, with Tug Boat Mates often serving as a step toward more advanced maritime positions.

How much do deckhands make on tug boats?

Deckhands on tug boats typically earn between $2,000 and $4,000 per month, depending on experience, certifications, and the company. They often work long shifts and may receive additional pay for overtime or hazardous conditions.

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 often requires passing exams and demonstrating leadership skills to qualify for the mate position.

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

To thrive as a Tug Boat Mate, you need a strong grasp of vessel operations, navigation, seamanship, and often a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with the appropriate endorsements. Familiarity with marine communication systems, GPS, radar, and safety equipment is typically required. Exceptional teamwork, problem-solving, and clear communication skills help ensure safe and efficient vessel handling in challenging environments. These competencies are crucial for protecting crew safety, preventing accidents, and ensuring smooth tug operations in busy or hazardous waterways.

How much does a mate make on a tugboat?

A tugboat mate typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the vessel. Mates are responsible for assisting the captain, handling lines, and ensuring safety procedures are followed, often requiring certifications such as STCW and good seamanship skills.

How do you get a job on a tugboat?

To become a tug boat mate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant maritime certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential, and experience in maritime or related work. Entry-level positions often require completing safety training and gaining sea time, with advancement possible through gaining additional certifications and experience.
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Tug Boat Mate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tug Boat Mate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $72,583 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Tug Boat Captain

Broussard Brothers Inc

Abbeville, LA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Description:


Tug Boat Captain Job Description:


Broussard Brothers, Inc. offers competitive pay, health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(K) match, life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, and other incentives. SIGN ON BONUS AND HOLIDAY PAY AVAILABLE!!!


* Master of Towing


* Mate of Towing


Job Summary:

The Captain is the onboard person ultimately responsible and accountable for the safety of the crew and passengers, the care of the cargo, equipment and supplies being transferred, as well as for the proper care of the Tugboat and its equipment. As such, he/she is responsible for the conduct of the passengers and vessel's crew as well as for the safe and efficient navigation, handling and maneuvering of the Tugboat in and around other vessels and structures, navigable and open waterways, etc. during the course of its operations. The Captain is further responsible for the safe transportation of the contract companies' personnel, cargo, supplies and equipment. The Captain assumes ultimate responsibility for training and the direct and indirect supervision of the Deckhand and where appropriate, a Wheelman. He/she must ensure compliance with Company, Coast Guard and environmental regulations as they pertain to open water vessels. In addition to this, the Captain is the Company's on-site representative on the vessel. As such, he/she must ensure that his/her conduct and that of the crew is in line with the positive image the Company projects.


Essential Functions:


Ensuring a seaworthy vessel at all times. This shall include the fuel, water, spare parts, safety apparatus, provisions and stores necessary for successfully completing the job are on board and operational..

Ensuring that all engines and other machinery are regularly checked and maintained, and that vessel cleaning, maintenance, and other housekeeping duties are performed in a timely manner.

Maintaining current knowledge regarding the U.S. and local laws and regulations, local requirements of all ports of call, familiarity with handling characteristics of the vessel, operation of the navigational equipment, ect.

Safe operation of and navigation of the vessel. This will also include the safe loading and back loading of the vessel, the safe and secure storage of supplies and equipment transported, as well as for the conduct of the crew and passengers on the vessel.

Ensuring proper training and qualifications of the employee's working under his/her supervision. This shall include ensuring that no employee works in an area they have not demonstrated competence in or, where appropriate, are licensed to perform.

Performing as well as supervising the navigational work and the watch stood by the subordinates so as to ensure the accurate and safe maneuvering of the vessel.

Staying advised of the weather conditions at all times and responding in an appropriate manner in all areas concerned with personnel safety, security of the vessel, and successful completion of the contracting company's objective.


Job Type:

Full-time


Benefits:

401(k)

401(k) matching

Dental insurance

Employee assistance program

Health insurance

Health savings account

Life insurance

Referral program

Vision insurance


License/Certification:

USCG Master of Towing License for operating towing vessels in inland waters (near coastal endorsements is a plus)

CPR

First Aid

Firefighting

FCC Radio/Telephone Operating Permit


Schedules:

7/7, 14/7, 14/14, 28/14, 28/28


Work Location:

Intracoastal City, Abbeville, Louisiana

In person


If your disability requires a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process, please contact our Human Resources Department at 3378935303 or jobs@broussardbrothers.com. We are committed to ensuring all applicants have equal access to opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disabled/Veterans

Requirements: