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Tug Boat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Curtin Maritime

Deckhand Trainee

Long Beach, CA · On-site

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 ...

Vulcan Materials Company

Deckhand

Grand Rivers, KY · On-site

Summary Description of Position The Deckhand is responsible for the safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant operation of assigned area on a harbor tug boat. The primary function is ...

MSCCN

Fleet Deckhand - Winona, MN

Winona, MN · On-site

$251/day

ADM is seeking a laborer to work as a deckhand under the direction of a Captain on a tug boat at one of our American River Transportation Company (ARTCo) fleeting locations in Winona, MN Job ...

MILLERS LAUNCH INC

Licensed Boat Captain

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

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.

MILLERS LAUNCH INC

Licensed Boat Captain

Neptune City, NJ · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

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.

MILLERS LAUNCH INC

Licensed Boat Captain

New York, NY · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

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.

ADM

Fleet Deckhand - St. Louis, MO

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$266/wk

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 Deckhand - Ottawa, IL

Ottawa, IL

$236/wk

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 Ottawa, IL. Job ...

T. Parker Host

... boat * Work with Captain to ensure safe and reliable daily movements of the United Bulk Terminals fleet * Make-up and break down tug to/from barges * Inspect and, if necessary, pump barge voids

T. Parker Host

Deckhand

Braithwaite, LA

... boat * Work with Captain to ensure safe and reliable daily movements of the United Bulk Terminals fleet * Make-up and break down tug to/from barges * Inspect and, if necessary, pump barge voids

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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 Jun 16, 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 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.

How to be a tug boat operator?

To become a tug boat operator, you typically need a Merchant Mariner Credential with a towing endorsement from the Coast Guard, along with relevant maritime experience and training. Operators must understand navigation, safety procedures, and vessel handling, often working long hours in various weather conditions. Certification programs and on-the-job training are essential steps in qualifying for this role.

How much do tug boat people make?

Tug boat operators and crew members typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Experienced captains and engineers tend to earn higher salaries, especially in busy port regions or with specialized skills. Many positions also include overtime and shift differentials due to the demanding work environment.

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 tug boat jobs?

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 boat job pays the most?

The highest-paying boat jobs are often offshore captain or master mariner positions, which require extensive experience and certifications such as STCW. These roles can earn six-figure salaries due to the demanding nature, responsibility, and specialized skills involved in managing large vessels or offshore platforms.

Is working on a tugboat a good job?

Working as a tugboat operator involves operating and maintaining tugboats used to assist larger ships in harbors and waterways. The job can be physically demanding, requires safety training and certifications, and often involves working in challenging weather conditions and irregular hours. It offers opportunities for advancement and good pay in the maritime industry.

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.

More about Tug Boat jobs
What cities are hiring for Tug Boat jobs? Cities with the most Tug Boat job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tug Boat jobs? The most popular types of Tug Boat jobs are:
What states have the most Tug Boat jobs? States with the most job openings for Tug Boat jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Tug Boat jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Tug Boat jobs are:
Tug Boat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tug Boat job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,153 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Able Seaman- Anchorage Harbor

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge

Anchorage, AK

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

AB - Harbor Division

We are Alaska's tug andbarge company- and are growing.

Cook Inlet Tug & Bargehasprovidedmarine services since 1924. We specialize in harbor services throughout Alaska. Visit www.cookinlettug.com to learn more about us.

Why Cook Inlet Tug & Barge?

Simply put, Cook Inlet Tug &Bargeisa team ofexceptionalmerchant mariners. If you are looking forsteady year-round work andenjoy what you do,this isan opportunity of a lifetime! We are committed to employee safety and take pride in our professional operations.

We offer competitive pay and a full package of benefits to include medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and more to our full-time employees.

Get your application in today at: https://www.cookinlettug.com/careers!

Roles and Responsibilities

As an Able Seaman(AB)youwill be responsible to keep our vessels in a state of readinessand keep things running smoothly.

Working at the direction of the Captainto performvarious taskssuch as:

  • Maintain the vessel in a constant and proper state of repair and operational readinessby completingrequiredvessel inspections,cleaningtasks, and general maintenance of the boat.
  • Engine room duties as assigned.
  • Maintain a watch system.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Equipmentused willincludewinches, capstan, pike pole, and pumps.

You are an integral part of the team, maintaining a safe work environment on the vessel by implementing company policies, procedures, and general maritime industry-standards.

Qualifications:

  • Able Bodied(AB)Seaman endorsement.
  • Valid USCG Merchant MarinerCredential(MMC).
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
  • QMED rating preferred.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent, equivalent experience will be considered.
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States.
Experience and Skills:
  • Two years previous experience as an AB
  • Two years of sea-going experience on towing vessels(preferred).

Working conditions:

  • Lodging and provisions on the vessel.
  • Must bephysicallyfittoclimb aboard tugs and barges, ascend and descend ladders and balance while aboard vessels in aseaway; kneel,stoop, use stairs, reach overhead, and stand forlong periods.
  • Comfortable with heights or narrow walkways.
  • Must be able to work 12 hours a day every day.
  • Exposure toallweather conditions(rain, ice, snow, heat,wind, etc.).
  • Year-round work, typical shift is two weeks on/off.

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse workforce and taking affirmative action to employ and advance qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. We are a drug-free employer and a participant of the E-Verify Employment Verification Program.

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