Tug Boat Captain
Mead, OK · On-site
Safely operate tug boats and support vessels in rivers, lakes, channels, ports, and inland waterways * Maneuver and position construction barges, crane barges, sectional barges, and material barges ...
Tug Boat Captain
Mead, OK · On-site
Safely operate tug boats and support vessels in rivers, lakes, channels, ports, and inland waterways * Maneuver and position construction barges, crane barges, sectional barges, and material barges ...
Tug Boat Captain
Mead, OK · On-site
Safely operate tug boats and support vessels in rivers, lakes, channels, ports, and inland waterways * Maneuver and position construction barges, crane barges, sectional barges, and material barges ...
Tug Boat Captain
Mead, OK · On-site
Safely operate tug boats and support vessels in rivers, lakes, channels, ports, and inland waterways * Maneuver and position construction barges, crane barges, sectional barges, and material barges ...
Safely operate tug boats and support vessels in rivers, lakes, channels, ports, and inland waterways * Maneuver and position construction barges, crane barges, sectional barges, and material barges ...
Safely operate tug boats and support vessels in rivers, lakes, channels, ports, and inland waterways * Maneuver and position construction barges, crane barges, sectional barges, and material barges ...
Tug Boat Captain
Mead, OK · On-site
Safely operate tug boats and support vessels in rivers, lakes, channels, ports, and inland waterways * Maneuver and position construction barges, crane barges, sectional barges, and material barges ...
Tug Boat Captain
Mead, OK · On-site
Safely operate tug boats and support vessels in rivers, lakes, channels, ports, and inland waterways * Maneuver and position construction barges, crane barges, sectional barges, and material barges ...
Safely operate tug boats and support vessels in rivers, lakes, channels, ports, and inland waterways * Maneuver and position construction barges, crane barges, sectional barges, and material barges ...
Safely operate tug boats and support vessels in rivers, lakes, channels, ports, and inland waterways * Maneuver and position construction barges, crane barges, sectional barges, and material barges ...
Rigger
Norfolk, VA · On-site
$23.25 - $30/hr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
Norfolk, VA · On-site
$23.25 - $30/hr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$23.25 - $30/hr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$23.25 - $30/hr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
Norfolk, VA · On-site
$23.25 - $30/hr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
Norfolk, VA · On-site
$23.25 - $30/hr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$23.25 - $30/hr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$23.25 - $30/hr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Rigger
$38K - $56K/yr
Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...
Tug Boats information
See salary details
$9.38 - $12.98
15% of jobs
$13.88 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12.98 - $16.59
40% of jobs
$16.59 - $20.19
16% of jobs
$22.12 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$20.19 - $23.80
8% of jobs
$23.80 - $27.40
4% of jobs
$27.40 - $31.01
4% of jobs
$31.01 - $34.62
8% of jobs
$34.62 - $38.22
4% of jobs
$38.22 - $41.83
0% of jobs
$41.83 - $45.43
0% of jobs
$45.43 - $49.04
1% of jobs
$9
$22
$49
How much do tug boats jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug boats in the United States is $22.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are some common challenges faced by tug boat operators during daily operations?
Tug boat operators often encounter challenges such as navigating in adverse weather conditions, coordinating with large vessels in crowded ports, and responding quickly to emergencies like mechanical failures or unexpected changes in schedules. Effective communication with harbor pilots and crew members is crucial to ensure safe maneuvering. Adapting to changing tides and currents, as well as maintaining high safety standards, are also essential parts of the role.
What is the difference between Tug Boats vs Marine Pilots?
| Aspect | Tug Boats | Marine Pilots |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | STCW certification, towing licenses | STCW certification, pilot license |
| Work Environment | Harbors, ports, offshore | Vessels, port areas, ships |
| Employer & Industry | Shipping companies, port authorities | Shipping companies, port authorities |
Both Tug Boats operators and Marine Pilots work in maritime environments and require similar certifications. Tug Boats operators focus on maneuvering vessels using tugboats, primarily in harbors and offshore areas. Marine Pilots, on the other hand, guide ships through ports and narrow waterways. While their roles differ in scope, they often collaborate to ensure safe vessel navigation in busy maritime zones.
How much does it pay to work on a tugboat?
Tugboat captains and crew members typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start around $40,000, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by overtime and hazard pay in maritime environments.
What jobs pay 2000 a day?
In the maritime industry, tug boat captains and senior crew members can earn around $2,000 or more per day, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and in high-demand environments. These roles often require specialized skills, licenses, and working long or irregular hours on vessels. Compensation varies based on location, employer, and level of responsibility.
What qualifications do you need to work on a tugboat?
To work on a tugboat, individuals typically need a valid Coast Guard license or certification such as a Merchant Mariner Credential, along with relevant experience in maritime operations. Basic safety training, including first aid and firefighting, is also required, and applicants often need to pass physical exams and background checks.
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 operations, navigation, and vessel handling, usually backed by a relevant maritime license such as a USCG Merchant Mariner Credential. Familiarity with navigation systems, marine radios, and engine control systems is essential. Excellent situational awareness, teamwork, and communication skills help ensure safe and efficient maneuvering in challenging environments. These skills are crucial to guarantee the safety of crew, vessels, and cargo while operating in busy or confined waterways.
Is working on a tugboat a good job?
Working as a tugboat operator involves operating and maintaining vessels that assist in maneuvering ships in harbors and ports. It requires physical stamina, technical skills, and often involves working in challenging maritime environments, with certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential. The job can offer good pay and opportunities for advancement but also involves long hours and safety risks.
What are tug boats and what do they do?
Tug boats are specialized vessels designed to maneuver other ships by towing or pushing them, especially in harbors, narrow waterways, or busy ports. They are essential for guiding large ships that cannot easily navigate tight spaces on their own, such as container ships, oil tankers, and barges. Tug boats are equipped with powerful engines and are highly maneuverable, making them crucial for the safe docking, undocking, and movement of vessels in confined areas. In addition to towing ships, tug boats may also assist in salvage operations and firefighting on the water.
More about Tug Boats jobs
What cities are hiring for Tug Boats jobs? Cities with the most Tug Boats job openings:
What states have the most Tug Boats jobs? States with the most job openings for Tug Boats jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Tug Boats jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Tug Boats jobs are:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
Posted 18 days ago
Job description
Build Your Future with a Company That's Built America for Over a Century
For more than 100 years, Zachry Construction Corporation has been shaping America's infrastructure from highways and bridges to major civil projects that connect communities and strengthen our nation. As a family-owned company, we've built our reputation on integrity, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to our people.
At Zachry, you're not just joining a construction company, you're joining a family that values hard work, teamwork, and doing the right thing because it's the right thing to do. We're looking for dedicated individuals who are ready to grow their careers and make a lasting impact.
Our Core Values guide everything we do: Every Person Matters®, Together We Can Do Great Things®, This Is More Than a Job®.
Position Summary
The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of tug boats and marine vessels supporting heavy civil, bridge, dredging, marine construction, and barge operations. This role oversees vessel navigation, crew leadership, equipment coordination, and compliance with all applicable maritime, Coast Guard, OSHA, and company safety requirements.
The Captain works closely with project management, crane operators, barge crews, and field supervision to safely maneuver barges, transport materials and equipment, assist with marine construction activities, and maintain operational readiness of vessels and marine assets.
What You'll Do
This job summary is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required.
What We're Looking For
Preferred Certifications & Licenses
Why You'll Love Working with Us
At Zachry, we invest in our people because they're the foundation of our success. We're proud to offer career growth opportunities, long-term stability, and a culture built on trust and respect.
Our Industry-Leading Benefits Include
Zachry Construction Corporation performs heavy civil and building work throughout the United States. Relocation may be required for ongoing opportunities and career growth.
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.
We do not sponsor or transfer sponsorship of an employment visa at this time. We do not interview or hire students in F-1 or J-1 status and will not sponsor them for work visas.
To learn more about our legacy and projects, visit www.zachrycorp.com.
For more than 100 years, Zachry Construction Corporation has been shaping America's infrastructure from highways and bridges to major civil projects that connect communities and strengthen our nation. As a family-owned company, we've built our reputation on integrity, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to our people.
At Zachry, you're not just joining a construction company, you're joining a family that values hard work, teamwork, and doing the right thing because it's the right thing to do. We're looking for dedicated individuals who are ready to grow their careers and make a lasting impact.
Our Core Values guide everything we do: Every Person Matters®, Together We Can Do Great Things®, This Is More Than a Job®.
Position Summary
The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of tug boats and marine vessels supporting heavy civil, bridge, dredging, marine construction, and barge operations. This role oversees vessel navigation, crew leadership, equipment coordination, and compliance with all applicable maritime, Coast Guard, OSHA, and company safety requirements.
The Captain works closely with project management, crane operators, barge crews, and field supervision to safely maneuver barges, transport materials and equipment, assist with marine construction activities, and maintain operational readiness of vessels and marine assets.
What You'll Do
- Safely operate tug boats and support vessels in rivers, lakes, channels, ports, and inland waterways
- Maneuver and position construction barges, crane barges, sectional barges, and material barges
- Assist with towing operations, spud barge positioning, anchor handling, and fleet movements
- Monitor weather, currents, water elevations, and marine traffic conditions
- Conduct vessel inspections before, during, and after operations
- Ensure compliance with USCG regulations, OSHA requirements, Inland Navigation Rules, and company marine safety plans
- Conduct Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs) and toolbox talks
- Supervise deckhands and marine crew members
- Coordinate vessel activities with project managers, crane operators, and construction supervision
- Train crew members on marine safety, emergency response, and operational procedures
- Monitor tug engines, fuel systems, hydraulics, pumps, and electrical systems
- Coordinate vessel maintenance and repairs
- Maintain vessel logs, inspection reports, and fuel records
- Support marine construction operations including bridge construction, dredging, pile driving, and heavy lifts
- Assist with emergency response and recovery operations as needed
- Perform other duties as assigned
This job summary is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required.
What We're Looking For
- Strong vessel handling and towing experience
- Knowledge of inland waterways and marine navigation practices
- Understanding of barge configurations and fleet management
- Experience reading river conditions, currents, weather, and water elevations
- Marine construction experience preferred
- Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
- Ability to remain calm under pressure and maintain situational awareness
- Basic mechanical troubleshooting skills
- Proficiency with marine radio communications
- Knowledge of marine rigging and towing systems
- Understanding of lock and dam procedures
- Familiarity with navigation electronics and radar systems
- Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather conditions
- Ability to climb ladders, board vessels, and work on uneven surfaces
- Ability to lift equipment and perform physical labor as needed
Preferred Certifications & Licenses
- Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)
- Master of Towing Vessels License
- OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification
- CPR / First Aid Certification
Why You'll Love Working with Us
At Zachry, we invest in our people because they're the foundation of our success. We're proud to offer career growth opportunities, long-term stability, and a culture built on trust and respect.
Our Industry-Leading Benefits Include
- Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
- 401(k) with 6% dollar-for-dollar company match, Paid Time Off, and an annual Performance Bonus Program
- Company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for you and your family
- Opportunities for training, professional development, and advancement
Zachry Construction Corporation performs heavy civil and building work throughout the United States. Relocation may be required for ongoing opportunities and career growth.
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.
We do not sponsor or transfer sponsorship of an employment visa at this time. We do not interview or hire students in F-1 or J-1 status and will not sponsor them for work visas.
To learn more about our legacy and projects, visit www.zachrycorp.com.