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Tug Boat Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

ADM is seeking a laborer to work as a deckhand under the direction of a Captain on a tug boat at our American River Transportation Company (ARTCo) fleeting location in Mt. Vernon, IN Job ...

Tug Boat information

See Indiana salary details

$7

$20

$46

How much do tug boat jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug boat in Indiana is $20.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $24.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tug boat?

Tug boat jobs involve operating and managing tugboats, which are specialized vessels used to maneuver larger ships in harbors, rivers, or through narrow waterways. Common positions include tugboat captain, deckhand, and engineer, each with specific duties such as navigation, line handling, engine maintenance, and ensuring safety protocols. Tug boat crews play a crucial role in assisting with docking, undocking, and towing operations, often working in challenging weather and maritime conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tug boat operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tug Boat Operator, you need a strong understanding of maritime navigation, vessel handling, and safety procedures, typically supported by a valid captain’s license or Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Familiarity with radar, GPS navigation systems, radio communication equipment, and often STCW certification is essential. Excellent situational awareness, teamwork, and decision-making skills set top operators apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient maneuvering of vessels in challenging marine environments.

What are some common challenges tug boat operators face during daily operations?

Tug boat operators frequently encounter challenges such as navigating in tight or congested harbor spaces, working in adverse weather conditions, and coordinating with large vessels and port authorities. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as operators must collaborate closely with crew members and pilots to ensure safe maneuvers. Additionally, operators must remain vigilant at all times to respond quickly to sudden changes in vessel movements or environmental factors.

What is the difference between Tug Boat vs Marine Pilot?

AspectTug BoatMarine Pilot
Required CredentialsSTCW certification, towing licensesSTCW certification, pilot license, local navigation training
Work EnvironmentHarbor, port, offshoreVessels, ports, waterways
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, port authoritiesShipping lines, port authorities
Primary RoleAssist ships in docking, towing, maneuveringNavigate ships through ports, waterways

While both Tug Boats and Marine Pilots operate in port and maritime environments, Tug Boats are specialized vessels used to tow or maneuver ships, whereas Marine Pilots are licensed professionals who navigate ships through challenging waters. Both roles require maritime certifications and are essential for safe port operations, but they differ in responsibilities and work settings.

How to get hired on a tug boat?

To get hired as a tug boat crew member, candidates typically need relevant maritime certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential and specialized training in towing operations. Prior experience in marine or commercial vessel operations and physical fitness are also important for employment in this field.

Is working on a tug boat worth it?

Working as a tug boat operator can be rewarding for those interested in maritime work, offering competitive pay and opportunities for advancement. The job requires physical stamina, technical skills, and often involves working in challenging weather conditions and long shifts. Certification and safety training are typically necessary to ensure compliance with maritime regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Tug Boat jobs in Indiana?

For Tug Boat jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tug Boat jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Tug Boat jobs in Indiana are:

Infographic showing various Tug Boat job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,014 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Fleet Deckhand - Mt. Vernon, IN

ADM

Mount Vernon, IN • On-site

$245/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


ADM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 185 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 365 rated logistics


Job description

Job Description Fleet Deckhand - Mt. Vernon, INThis is a full-time, non-exempt level position. Pay-$245/day 5 days on / 5 nights on / 5 days off (5/5/5)Position Summary:ADM is seeking a laborer to work as a deckhand under the direction of a Captain on a tug boat at our American River Transportation Company (ARTCo) fleeting location in Mt. Vernon, IN Job Responsibilities: General housekeeping and upkeep of the vessel, including washing, chipping, painting, and cleaningTow work, including building rigging, and building tow for LineboatsFleet work, including preparing barges for delivery to local customersAssisting barge cleaners, mechanics, and welders may also be requiredAssist the captain with required vessel reports in compliance with environmental, safety and USCG regulations and report any problems or damageReport all injuries, illnesses, and near misses in a timely mannerAdditional duties and responsibilities as required or requested Job Requirements: Ability to follow direction and execute tasks under the supervision of captain or mateInland waterway decking experience preferred, but not requiredReading and writing skills sufficient to comprehend/complete a variety of documentsAbility to work in a flexible schedule; must allow for changes in assignments, and priorities depending upon identified needs of the vesselAbility to work well independently as well as part of a teamMust be able to work in all types of climatesPromote the ADM Way and core ValuesMust have a demonstrated history of safe work behavior and a sincere desire to follow and improve upon safety policies and proceduresAbility to work extended hours, evenings, weekends and Holidays Current Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card required. If you do not have a TWIC card upon hire, you must apply for one within 5 days Physical Requirements: Candidates must pass a pre-employment physical, drug screening and company human performance exam (physical ability test)Standing for prolonged periods of timeFrequent heavy liftingProlonged periods of kneeling, bending and climbing stairs/laddersAbility to work near or on large bodies of water, at various heights and in confined spaces ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. REF:111871BR Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors. The pay range for this position is expected to be between: $245/day Benefits and Perks Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including: Physical wellness - medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable). Financial wellness - flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers' compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection. Mental and social wellness - Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares). Additional benefits include: Paid time off including paid holidays. Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave. Tuition assistance. Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs. *Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter. #IncludingYouDiversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM's efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments - environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law About ADM At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.

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