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Tug Boat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Russell Marine LLC

Boat Captain

Ingleside, TX · On-site

The Boat Captain will operate a variety of marine vessels in support of the construction or repair ... Six(6) months of experience operating tug boats/marine vessels. * Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (KSA)

Russell Marine LLC

Boat Captain

Channelview, TX · On-site

The Boat Captain will operate a variety of marine vessels in support of the construction or repair ... Six(6) months of experience operating tug boats/marine vessels. * Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (KSA)

Russell Marine LLC

Boat Captain

North Charleston, SC · On-site

The Boat Captain will operate a variety of marine vessels in support of the construction or repair ... Six(6) months of experience operating tug boats/marine vessels. * Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (KSA)

Archer Daniels Midland

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 St Louis, MO. * General ...

Archer Daniels Midland

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 St. Louis, MO. Job ...

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 our American River Transportation Company (ARTCo) fleeting location in Wickliffe, KY. Job ...

Archer Daniels Midland

$245/day

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 ...

Archer Daniels Midland

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 St. Louis, MO. Job ...

ADM

Fleet Captain - Ottawa, IL

Ottawa, IL · On-site

$480 - $510/hr

ADM is seeking a licensed mariner to Captain and supervise a tug boat at our American River Transportation Company (ARTCo) fleeting location in LaSalle, IL.Job Responsibilities:Supervises the day-to ...

Archer Daniels Midland

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 St. Louis, MO. Job ...

Archer Daniels Midland

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 St. Louis, MO. Job ...

Archer Daniels Midland

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 St. Louis, MO. Job ...

Archer Daniels Midland

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 St. Louis, MO. Job ...

Curtin Maritime

Deckhand Trainee

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Due to the diverse nature of our work, new employees can purse a career on a tug boat, from deckhand to captain, operating cranes and equipment (offshore and shoreside), welding and building ...

Curtin Maritime

Deckhand Trainee

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Due to the diverse nature of our work, new employees can purse a career on a tug boat, from deckhand to captain, operating cranes and equipment (offshore and shoreside), welding and building ...

Torrey Holistics

Boat Captain

Detroit, MI · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

... our tug docks located throughout the Great Lakes system to perform towing assignments (both harbor towing and cross lake towing); travel may involve stays away from home residenceAssist with ...

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Tug Boat information

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$7

$21

$48

How much do tug boat jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug boat 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 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.
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What states have the most Tug Boat jobs?

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Tug Boat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tug Boat job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 5% Summer. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,153 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Boat Captain

Russell Marine LLC

Ingleside, TX • On-site

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Application Instructions
Please complete your application to the best of your ability, or attach a copy of your resume
Position Description
SUMMARY
As a Boat Captain, this position is responsible for supporting field operations at marine or railroad project locations for Russell Marine, LLC. The Boat Captain will operate a variety of marine vessels in support of the construction or repair of marine terminals, dock facilities, and/or railroad bridges.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date logs, records, and reports regarding vessel activities.
  • Operate and navigate a vessel according to United States Coast Guard (USCG) regulations and safety standards.
  • Maintain a high level of safety for passengers and crews, including monitoring crew members on the vessel at all times.
  • Perform and coordinate maintenance of the Company-assigned vessels, including daily maintenance, minor repairs, vessel upkeep, and overall appearance.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Position Requirements
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Education: Must possess a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) or be willing/eligible to obtain one upon hire. Valid Driver's License. Valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC).
  • Experience: Six(6) months of experience operating tug boats/marine vessels.
  • Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (KSA): Must possess strong written and verbal communication skills in English to effectively present information and respond to questions from supervisors. Able to make swift decisions under pressure or in high-stress/emergencies. General knowledge of marine towing. Works independently, without supervision, and can work with a team.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Certification(s): Master of Towing license.
  • Experience: Five (5) years of experience operating tug boats/marine vessels.
  • Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (KSA): Thorough knowledge of marine towing.

WORKING CONDITIONS
  • The individual must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable workplace accommodation.
  • The individual must also be able to wear and properly utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to work or visit within areas where it is required. This includes a hard hat, safety glasses, life vest, respirators, ear plugs, steel-toed shoes, personal floatation devices (PFD), and/or other protective equipment.
  • The individual frequently works near moving mechanical parts and must be able to adapt to temperature changes, outdoor conditions, and prolonged exposure to dusty, wet, or humid conditions, loud noises, and vibration.
  • The individual may be required to work long hours and/or weekends. Additionally, some out-of-town or overnight travel may be required.
  • The individual may be required to walk, step, climb, or otherwise move from one location on the job site to another, which may be of varying heights and access parameters.
  • The individual is going to be required on occasion to climb ladders, stoop, board boats, kneel, crouch, and/or crawl.
  • The individual may be required to lift objects with a minimum of 10 lbs. and a maximum single-person lift of 50 lbs. This could result in frequent lifting or carrying depending on project needs.
  • The individual must be physically fit and capable of spending extended time at sea in all weather conditions.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
The Company expects and requires all employees to observe and fulfill all safety responsibilities as outlined in workplace safety training and actively work toward maintaining a safe workplace. Employees are authorized and obligated to stop work on any task or series of tasks whenever an unsafe condition or situation is anticipated or is observed as well as bring problems to the attention of the immediate supervisor, HSE Manager, or HR Manager.
  • Failure to do so can result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Regular attendance and punctuality are required of all employees. Employment at Russell Marine, LLC is on an "at-will" basis. There is no contract of employment between Russell Marine, LLC and any one or all of its employees unless explicitly stated elsewhere. Employment security cannot be guaranteed for or by any employee. No Manager, Supervisor, or employee of the Company has any authority to enter into an agreement for employment for any specified period of time or to make an agreement for employment other than at-will. Only the Owner or President has the authority to modify the at-will relationship, and then only in writing specifically addressed to the employee on this issue and signed by that Russell Marine, LLC Executive.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Russell Marine, LLC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected status. If you require special assistance or accommodation while seeking employment with Russell Marine, LLC, please contact Human Resources at humanresources@russellmarinellc.com.

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