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Tug Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

McAllister Towing

Captains

Baltimore, MD

The Captain is required to supervise all crewmembers of the vessel to which he/she is assigned. Description of Duties: * 14/14 schedule in Baltimore, MD * Master of a tug or towing vessel. * Vessel ...

McAllister Towing

Captains

Baltimore, MD · On-site

The Captain is required to supervise all crewmembers of the vessel to which he/she is assigned. Description of Duties: * 14/14 schedule in Baltimore, MD * Master of a tug or towing vessel. * Vessel ...

Centerline Logistics

Captain

Portland, OR

Previous experience as a captain onboard a tug. * Must have a valid Coast Guard license with a radar observer endorsement. * Must have a valid first aid/CPR certificate. * Complete HAZWOPER training ...

Centerline Logistics Corporation

Captain

Portland, OR · On-site

$875/wk

Previous experience as a captain onboard a tug. * Must have a valid Coast Guard license with a radar observer endorsement. * Must have a valid first aid/CPR certificate. * Complete HAZWOPER training ...

Robbins Maritime Inc

Tugboat Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$725/day

Vision insurance About us Robbins Maritime, Inc. is a leading tug and barge company, established in ... Key Responsibilities: Looking for Captain of Towing with experience working with dredging ...

Robbins Maritime Inc

Tugboat Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$725/day

About us Robbins Maritime, Inc. is a leading tug and barge company, established in 1986 and ... Key Responsibilities: Looking for Captain of Towing with experience working with dredging ...

Robbins Maritime Inc

Tugboat Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$725/day

About us Robbins Maritime, Inc. is a leading tug and barge company, established in 1986 and ... Key Responsibilities: Looking for Captain of Towing with experience working with dredging ...

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$104.2K

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How much do tug captain jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for tug captain in the United States is $104,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $128,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Tug Captain position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tug Captain, you need advanced maritime navigation skills, strong situational awareness, and a valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with appropriate endorsements. Proficiency with marine radios, navigation systems (like GPS and RADAR), and tugboat-specific equipment is crucial. Leadership, effective communication, and quick decision-making are soft skills that distinguish top performers in this role. These abilities are essential for ensuring safety, efficient vessel operations, and clear coordination with crews and port personnel.

What are the typical work hours and conditions for a Tug Captain?

Tug Captains often work irregular and extended hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, depending on harbor schedules and ship movements. The job commonly involves shift-work or rotations, and conditions can include working in all weather situations on the water, making adaptability and endurance important. Tug Captains frequently collaborate with deck crews, pilots, and port authorities to ensure safe navigation and docking. Understanding these demands helps job seekers prepare for both the dynamic pace and the teamwork central to this career.

What does a Tug Captain do?

A Tug Captain is responsible for commanding and operating a tugboat to maneuver vessels in harbors, rivers, or open waters. They ensure the safe towing, docking, and escorting of ships while managing the crew and maintaining compliance with maritime regulations. Tug Captains must have strong navigation skills, knowledge of tides and currents, and the ability to handle emergency situations.

More about Tug Captain jobs
What cities are hiring for Tug Captain jobs? Cities with the most Tug Captain job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tug Captain jobs? The most popular types of Tug Captain jobs are:
What states have the most Tug Captain jobs? States with the most job openings for Tug Captain jobs include:
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Tug Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tug Captain job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,157 per year, or $50.1 per hour.
Captains

Captains

McAllister Towing

Baltimore, MD

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Tradition meets innovation at the historic Port of Baltimore. The well-located domestic and international hub was founded in 1706 and now boasts state-of-the-art facilities. Baltimore has become one of busiest ports on the East Coast, handling annually over 30 million tons of cargo from automobiles to zinc. McAllister Towing has been a steadfast contributor to the port's success since 1980, providing the Upper Chesapeake Bay and surrounding areas with outstanding docking, undocking, towing, dredge services, and general harbor assist services.

McAllister Towing of Baltimore is seeking highly qualified Captains for their tugboats.  Duties and responsibilities are outlined below:

Captain:
 
Reports to:
  • The Captain reports to the General Manager or his/her designated representative.
Supervises:
  • The Captain is required to supervise all crewmembers of the vessel to which he/she is assigned.  
Description of Duties:
  • 14/14 schedule in Baltimore, MD
  • Master of a tug or towing vessel.
  • Vessel Security Officer (VSO) in charge of implementing and maintaining the AWO Alternative Security Program.
  • Responsible to safely and efficiently operate and manage (performance of crew, vessel, and tow).   
  • Serve as Officer in Charge of the Navigation Watch. 
  • Assess and maintain vessel seaworthiness.
  • Ensure the availability and serviceability of required lifesaving equipment.
  • Verify the serviceability of all installed fire detection and firefighting systems and equipment.
  • Require accommodations to be maintained in safe, clean condition at all times.
  • Provide clear direction to subordinates.
  • Prepare periodic performance evaluations for subordinates.
  • Maintain vessel and crew readiness for emergency responses.
  • Conduct and report the results of periodic vessel audits and inspections.
  • Operate and maintain the assigned vessel in accordance with the quality, safety, security and environmental protection policies and procedures in the Vessel Operations Manual.
  • Organize and conduct required training, drills and exercises.
  • Complete, submit and maintain required records, logs and reports.
  • Ensure adequate vessel manning and watches.
  • Project a positive company image and maintain professional, amicable relationships with customers, pilots, terminal personnel and the public at all times.
  • Other duties as may be assigned by the General Manager or his/her designated representative.
Minimum Requirements:
  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner's Credential
  • Valid 200 Ton License as Master
  • Master of Towing
  • Valid Radar Endorsement
  • First Aid/CPR
  • Fire Fighting Training
  • Valid TWIC card
  • Z drive/Twin Screw Tugboat Experience
  • Must pass pre-employment drug test
  • Must pass pre-employment physical

Preferred Requirements:

  • Valid 1,600 Ton License as Master
Physical Requirements:
 
The unpredictable, ever-changing and inherently dangerous nature of tug and towing operations require the Captain to be physically qualified to ensure his/her own safety, as well as that of the vessel and crew.  Specific physical requirements include:
 
  • Adequate vision (i.e., absent any color blindness or impairment that cannot be corrected with prescription lenses).
  • Adequate hearing.Capable of walking and standing on wet surfaces for extended periods of time.
  • Able to handle heavy lines and operate heavy machinery.
  • Ability to climb a 12-foot ladder without assistance.
  • Ability to hoist oneself up and over a 12-inch wide, 6-foot-high barrier.
  • Sufficient strength to:
    • Lift 100 lbs. from deck to waist level.
    • Lift 50 lbs. from deck to shoulder level.
    • Lift 35 lbs. from deck to overhead; and
    • Pull (drag) 120 lbs. at least 20 feet.
FLSA Status
  • 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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