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Tug Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Russell Marine LLC

Boat Captain

Ingleside, TX · On-site

The Boat Captain will operate a variety of marine vessels in support of the construction or repair ... Six(6) months of experience operating tug boats/marine vessels. * Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (KSA)

Russell Marine LLC

Boat Captain

Channelview, TX · On-site

The Boat Captain will operate a variety of marine vessels in support of the construction or repair ... Six(6) months of experience operating tug boats/marine vessels. * Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (KSA)

McAllister Towing

Assistant Port Engineer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Captain Elliott Westall joined the McAllister family in 1997 after a distinguished 20-year career in the US Navy where he served primarily as Tug Captain and Harbor Pilot. Captain Westall was named ...

V2X

As Pilot he/she will know the passes, the lagoon and docks may be assigned to vessels as captain or mate as needed * will assist visiting ships with local knowledge, tug assist coordination and ...

Archer Daniels Midland

ADM is seeking a licensed mariner to Captain and supervise a tug boat at our American River Transportation Company (ARTCo) fleeting location in LaSalle, IL. Job Responsibilities: * Supervises the day ...

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Tug Captain information

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$19K

$104.2K

$181.5K

How much do tug captain jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 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.

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Tug Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tug Captain job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $104,157 per year, or $50.1 per hour.
Tugboat Captain

Tugboat Captain

Robbins Maritime Inc

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$725/day

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

About us
Robbins Maritime, Inc. is a leading tug and barge company, established in 1986 and headquartered in Norfolk, VA. We specialize in providing reliable and efficient maritime support services along the East Coast and Gulf Coast of the United States.
 
Key Responsibilities:
Looking for Captain of Towing with experience working with dredging operations.
  • Work schedule is 28 days on and 14 days off
  • Paid travel to and from the vessel from closest major airport to residence
  • Crew safety, vessel safety and Environmental protection (Vessel Master has ultimate responsibility).
  • Pre-voyage inspections and voyage planning.
  • The safe operation and navigation of the vessel on it’s planned voyage including all dockings and un-dockings/departures and making and breaking tows
  • Ensuring the ability for up-to-date and corrected charts.
  • Maintaining a radio communications log reflecting all vessel-to-vessel communications, waypoints, and job start, stop and standby times.
  • Conducting fire drills once each month, New Crew Member Safety Orientations, and Vessel Security Plan Exercises and drills at the appropriate times.
  • Ensuring other crew members are completing their required duties and responsibilities.
  • Crew safety, vessel safety and Environmental protection.
  • Loading of vessel food stores
  • Maintaining the safe operation and navigation of the vessel, on her planned voyage, so that neither operator is in operation of the vessel for more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period and that adequate rest is received by both.
Requirements:
·         Merchant Mariners Credentials (Master of Towing-Near Coastal 200 GRT)
·         Valid Driver License
·         Valid TWIC Card
·         Must be able to pass Merchant Mariner Physical/CG-719K and Drug Screening 
·         Must have a Satisfactory Background Check
·         Excellent communication skills and ability to work well in a team
·         Physical fitness and the ability to handle the demands of working on a vessel
·         Subject to Random Drug Screening

Benefits:
·         Competitive salary and benefits package.
·         Health, Vision, Dental Insurance
·         Voluntary Life Insurance
·         401(k)
·         Safe Harbor 401(k) match
·         Opportunities for professional growth and development.
 
How to Apply:
If you are a dedicated and an experienced Tugboat Captain looking to join a dynamic team, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your application on our website using the following link. https://www.robbinsmaritime.com/employment-application/. All application and resumes should be sent to hr@robbinsmaritime.com
Robbins Maritime, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.