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Tug Boat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MILLERS LAUNCH INC

Be Seen First

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

Be Seen First

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.

Arc Boat Company

UX UI Designer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$160K/yr

Designing best-in-class interfaces for recreational boat control, commercial vessel subsystems, and customer service experiences, spanning both Arc Sport (consumer) and Tug/Ferry (commercial)

Arc Boat Company

UX UI Designer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$160K/yr

Designing best-in-class interfaces for recreational boat control, commercial vessel subsystems, and customer service experiences, spanning both Arc Sport (consumer) and Tug/Ferry (commercial)

ADM

Fleet Deckhand - Wickliffe, KY

Wickliffe, KY · On-site

$263/hr

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 ...

ADM

Fleet Deckhand - St. Louis MO

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$266/hr

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 - St. Louis, MO

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$266/hr

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 - Mt. Vernon, IN

Mount Vernon, IN · On-site

$245/hr

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 ...

ADM

Live-On Deckhand - St. Louis, MO

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$279 - $336/hr

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 ...

ADM

Fleet Deckhand - St. Louis MO

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$266/hr

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 ...

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

See salary details

$7

$21

$48

How much do tug boat jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 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.
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?

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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.

Tug Logistics Coordinator (Night Shift)

McAllister Towing

Staten Island, NY • On-site

$80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate electronic communication systems and equipment to coordinate ship movements and communicate with management, shipping agents, and reporting agencies.

  • Organize and dispatch tugs and pilots based on job requirements, evaluate available resources, and assign crews accordingly.

  • Oversee services performed by tug and barge crews, ensure work is completed efficiently and professionally, and maintain documentation for activities and billing.

Job description


Tug Logistics Coordinator - Night Shift
McAllister Towing of New York is seeking a Full-Time Tug Logistics Coordinator (Night Shift) to join our operations team. This position requires a local candidate with exceptional customer service skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced maritime environment.
Candidates must be available to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, holidays, and occasional mid-shifts as operational needs require. Hours will vary based on vessel movements and customer demands. Flexibility, reliability, and the ability to manage multiple priorities are essential for success in this role.
About McAllister:
McAllister Towing has provided superior tugboat service to New York Harbor since 1864, when Captain James McAllister, great-grandfather to current president Brian Buckley McAllister, bought his first sail lighter to carry cargo from Manhattan to Brooklyn. Today, McAllister's tugs provide a wide variety of services to the busy ports of New York and New Jersey, serving the most concentrated and affluent consumer market in the world and handling a significant part of the 16 million tons of cargo that passes through the port every year. In addition to ship docking services and general harbor assist work, New York based tugs are regularly employed in offshore towing along the entire East Coast.
McAllister is proud of its long history in New York Harbor and continues to provide its clients and customers with the highest quality service.
McAllister Towing proudly supports veterans and transitioning service members. Military experience in navigation, engineering, logistics, vessel operations, maintenance, leadership, and safety management is highly valued. Veterans and military spouses are encouraged to apply.
Location: 3165 Richmond Terrace Staten Island, NY 10303
Salary: Base salary $80,000/yr plus overtime
Hours: 1730 - 0530
Description of Duties:
  • Operates electronic communication systems and equipment including two-way radios, telephone systems, fax machines, various computers and software programs, and cellular telephones.
  • Communicates and interfaces with management, shipping agents, and reporting agencies to gather information and schedules for shipping activity. Works with Personnel Department to coordinate crew activities.
  • Maintaining communications with agents, ships, pilots, terminals and all boat crews necessary to complete ship movements, barge loading and discharging. Ensures pilots are informed about their ships and schedules.
  • Organize and dispatch proper tugs and pilots needed for each job. Evaluate available equipment and crews in light of job requirements and assign tugs and crews accordingly.
  • Acts as company representative and receives and processes communications and orders from the U.S. Coast Guard relating to holds, boarding activity, vessel searches, oil spills and accidents.
  • Oversee services performed by tug/barge crews and take appropriate measures to ensure that the work was performed in an efficient and professional manner.
  • Update and monitor database system with shipping and pilot activity.
  • Organizes and documents activities by completing forms, reports, logs, and records; will also complete all materials used for billing purposes and sales information.
  • Keeps systems and equipment functioning properly by following operations instructions, troubleshooting breakdowns, maintaining supplies, performing preventive maintenance, and calling for repairs.
  • Project a positive image to peers and subordinates; to the customers we serve; to the industry in which we participate; and the community in which we live by producing a cost-efficient, quality service in a safe environment.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:
  • Radio operator's license preferred.
  • Ability to obtain an MMC and TWIC card.
  • Must have organization, problem solving and scheduling skills.
  • Superior customer service and communication skills
  • Excellent analytical skills and have the ability to formulate and communicate directions.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook with the ability to learn new software programs quickly.
  • Must have the ability to operate radios on correct frequencies.
  • Must have a good, clear voice and be fluent and articulate in English.

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to work 12-hour shifts.
  • The ability to operate a computer terminal.
  • The ability to operate telephones and standard office equipment

Preferred Experience:
  • Have thorough working knowledge of the local waterways, channels, and associated terminals, piers, tides and currents.
  • Maritime Industry Experience

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
*This position description does not promise or imply that the functions listed are the only duties to be performed or that the position may not change or be eliminated. Employees are always expected to follow their supervisor's instructions and to perform the tasks requested by their supervisors.
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer:
We are an Equal Employment Opportunity ("EEO") Employer.
It has been and will continue to be a fundamental policy of McAllister Towing not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender, gender identity, pregnancy, marital status, partnership status, domestic violence victim status, sexual orientation, age, national origin, alienage or citizenship status, veteran or military status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, caregiver status, unemployment status or any other characteristic prohibited by federal, state and/or local laws.
This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including hiring, promotion, demotion, compensation, training, working conditions, transfer, job assignments, benefits, layoff, and termination.

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