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Tug Captain Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tugboat Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$725/day

Competitive salary * Dental insurance * Health insurance * Vision insurance * 401(k) matching About ... a leading tug and barge company, established in 1986 and headquartered in Norfolk, VA. We ...

Tugboat Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$725/day

About us Robbins Maritime, Inc. is a leading tug and barge company, established in 1986 and ... salary and benefits package. · Health, Vision, Dental Insurance · Voluntary Life Insurance · ...

Tugboat Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$725/day

About us Robbins Maritime, Inc. is a leading tug and barge company, established in 1986 and ... salary and benefits package. · Health, Vision, Dental Insurance · Voluntary Life Insurance · ...

Mate

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$708/day

Mate - Meet the Captains and Mates at McAllister Towing Description/Job Summary: The Mate is ... Tractor tug experience * Must pass pre-employment drug test * Must pass pre-employment physical ...

Mate

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$708/day

Mate - Meet the Captains and Mates at McAllister Towing Description/Job Summary: The Mate is ... Tractor tug experience * Must pass pre-employment drug test * Must pass pre-employment physical ...

Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

The Mate shall report directly to the Captain and is second in command. As a supervisor, all crew ... Maritime experience working aboard a harbor assist tug. * Excellent communication skills. PHYSICAL ...

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Tug Captain Salary information

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$21

$48

How much do tug captain salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug captain salary 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 the average salary of a tug captain?

The average salary of a tug captain in the United States typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the company. Captains working in major ports or with specialized skills may earn higher wages. In addition to base pay, tug captains might receive overtime, bonuses, and benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. Salary can also vary based on union membership and the type of tug operations (harbor, offshore, or river).

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

To thrive as a Tug Captain, you need a valid captain’s license (such as USCG Master of Towing Vessels), extensive maritime navigation experience, and thorough knowledge of towing operations and safety regulations. Familiarity with marine communication systems, navigation software, and safety management systems is essential. Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills help coordinate crew and ensure safe vessel operations. These qualifications and abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant tugboat maneuvers in challenging marine environments.

What are some common challenges faced by tug captains in their daily operations?

Tug Captains often encounter challenges such as navigating in adverse weather conditions, coordinating complex maneuvers in busy ports, and ensuring the safety of their crew and vessel. They must also communicate effectively with harbor pilots, port authorities, and other maritime professionals to execute docking and undocking procedures smoothly. Additionally, managing fatigue during long shifts and adapting to changing schedules are key aspects of the role that require strong leadership and attention to detail.

What is the difference between Tug Captain Salary vs Marine Pilot Salary?

AspectTug CaptainMarine Pilot
Required CredentialsSTCW certification, maritime licensesSTCW certification, pilot license
Work EnvironmentHarbor, offshore tugboatsPort, harbor, offshore vessels
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, portsPort authorities, shipping lines

Both Tug Captains and Marine Pilots require maritime certifications and work in port and offshore environments. Tug Captains typically operate tugboats assisting ships within harbors, while Marine Pilots guide ships through port waters. Salary differences depend on experience, location, and employer, but both roles are vital in maritime operations.

Do tug captain salary make good money?

Tug captains typically earn a competitive salary that reflects their experience, certifications, and the demanding nature of maritime work. According to industry data, the average salary ranges from $70,000 to over $120,000 annually, with higher earnings possible for those with specialized skills or working in high-cost regions. The role often includes benefits such as overtime pay and job stability due to the essential nature of maritime transportation.
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Infographic showing various Tug Captain Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,153 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Foss Captain - Long Beach, CA

Foss Maritime Company

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$148K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

About Foss Maritime

Foss Maritime is one of the most recognized and respected maritime brands in the U.S., combining a rich legacy with a forward-thinking approach to industry innovation. While deeply rooted in tradition, Foss is evolving at a fast pace, continuously setting new standards for operational excellence and sustainability.

With operations spanning all U.S. coasts and global transportation projects, Foss is a leader in harbor and terminal towage, tug and barge transportation, and offshore energy solutions, including traditional energy and offshore wind projects. Our primary operations are on the U.S. West Coast, Alaska, and Hawaii.

As part of the Saltchuk family of companies, Foss is a values-driven organization that takes pride in its exceptional team, commitment to safety, and dedication to customer success. With a culture built on integrity, innovation, and collaboration, Foss Maritime remains a trusted leader in the maritime industry.

About the Role

The primary responsibility and authority for the execution of all vessel assignments including, but not limited to, planning the most efficient and safe operation of the vessel and its crew, implementing the operating plan in a cost-effective manner, and evaluating and reporting the results. It is the responsibility of all Masters to ensure compliance with policies and procedures, requirements and documentation in the Foss Safety Management System Manual (SMS). Masters have the specific obligation to ensure that all personnel assigned to vessels are provided with information, instructions and directions necessary for meeting the program objectives of safety, environmental protection and quality service through knowledgeable and competent execution of assigned tasks.

What You'll Do

  • Ensures safe navigation of the vessel at all times.
  • Conducts required drills, training, safety meetings and maintains records of such, per company policy.
  • Conducts and ensures compliance with vessel maintenance and inspection requirements as prescribed by the company.
  • Inspects vessel to ensure conformance with safety standards and maritime regulations.
  • Work closely with customers, pilots and appropriate government agencies to ensure the proper performance of the job.
  • Ensures prompt and accurate reporting of all equipment failures, illnesses, incidents, accidents and damages.
  • Maintains current knowledge of all maritime laws.
  • Directs and supervises crew members in safe and productive operation of the vessel, its machinery and equipment.
  • Holds crew accountable for their adherence to maritime law, company policies and procedures, and their individual performance/productivity.
  • Evaluate all crewmembers in accordance with Company policy and take action as necessary.

What We're Looking For

  • Thorough knowledge of vessel handling and navigational skills commensurate with operating assignments.
  • Working knowledge of propulsion, auxiliary and deck machinery.
  • Must possess strong written and oral communicative skills.
  • Must be able to economically supervise all aspects of the operation of the vessel, its cargo and crew.
  • Must be able to work independently and without direct supervision.
  • Ability to withstand exposure to all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, heat, wind, heavy seas, etc.)
  • Ability to adapt to a variety of schedules and hours
  • Able to work weekends, holidays, and at night. Willing to take call outs.
  • Must possess and maintain a National Master 500/1600 OC or NC license, National Master of Towing, STCW, Radar Endorsement, MMC, and TWIC.
  • 5 years experience as a Master on towing vessels.
  • Conventional tug experience preferred.
  • Z drive tug experience required.

What We Offer

The hourly rate for this position is $17.77 until checked off. The hourly rate for this position once verified is 20.64. For a full-time Captain, this equates to an estimated annual salary of approximately $148,112.64, depending on total hours worked throughout the year. Captains are paid on a 24-hour scale with varying hours of ST, OT, and DT rate.

How to Apply

Ready to set sail with Foss? Submit your application via our careers page. If you need any assistance please reach out to fossjobs@foss.com. We look forward to welcoming you aboard.

Drug Free Workplace

Foss Maritime Company LLC is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Foss Maritime Company LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.