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Tug Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Box Truck Driver

Oberlin, OH · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Box Truck, Tow motor and tug use daily * Proper disposal of inventory labels * All other duties as ... L license or tug/forklift certification may be required

MATE TUG CLASS I

Detroit, MI · On-site +1

$48.44 - $56.50/hr

Must possess and maintain a valid state issued motor vehicle driver's license. * This position ... Ability to do the work of a(n) MATE TUG CLASS I without more than normal supervision. I have the ...

MATE TUG CLASS I

Detroit, MI · On-site +1

$48.44 - $56.50/hr

Must possess and maintain a valid state issued motor vehicle driver's license. * This position ... Ability to do the work of a(n) MATE TUG CLASS I ~ without more than normal supervision.I have the ...

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Tug Driver information

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How much do tug driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug driver in the United States is $15.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tug driver?

Tug drivers, also known as ground support equipment (GSE) operators, are responsible for operating tugs or tractors that move aircraft, baggage carts, cargo, and other equipment around airports. They play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of aircraft and materials on the ground. Tug drivers must be skilled in maneuvering large vehicles in busy airport environments and adhere to strict safety protocols. Their work helps maintain timely flight schedules and supports overall airport operations.

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

To thrive as a Tug Driver, you need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and experience or certification in operating heavy vehicles or airport ground support equipment. Familiarity with airport communications systems, ground handling procedures, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong communication skills help ensure safe and efficient operations on busy airfields. These skills and qualifications are crucial to prevent accidents, maintain flight schedules, and uphold safety standards in airport environments.

What are some common challenges faced by tug drivers, and how can they be managed on the job?

Tug drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating busy or congested airport ramps, adhering to tight schedules, and working in varying weather conditions. To manage these challenges, it's important to maintain clear communication with ground crews and follow all safety protocols diligently. Staying alert, keeping up with ongoing training, and being adaptable to sudden operational changes can help tug drivers perform efficiently and safely. Collaboration with dispatchers and other team members is also essential to ensure smooth ground handling operations.

What is the difference between Tug Driver vs Forklift Operator?

AspectTug DriverForklift Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) often requiredForklift certification/license required
Work EnvironmentPorts, docks, shipping yardsWarehouses, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageMaritime, shipping, logisticsWarehousing, manufacturing, retail
Job FocusMoving large ships, tugging cargo shipsMoving pallets, containers within facilities

While both roles involve vehicle operation in logistics settings, Tug Drivers primarily operate specialized vehicles to move ships and large cargo in ports, requiring a CDL. Forklift Operators focus on internal material handling within warehouses, needing forklift certification. Both roles are essential in logistics but differ in environment, equipment, and specific skills.

What are the duties of a tug driver?

A tug driver operates tugboats to move ships, barges, or other large vessels within ports, harbors, or docks. Their duties include maneuvering vessels safely, following safety protocols, and maintaining the vessel and equipment. Certification in marine operations and good navigation skills are often required.
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What cities are hiring for Tug Driver jobs?

Cities with the most Tug Driver job openings:

What states have the most Tug Driver jobs?

States with the most job openings for Tug Driver jobs include:

Infographic showing various Tug Driver job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,394 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Tug Mate/Captain of Towing

MILLERS TUG AND BARGE INC.

New York, NY • On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Tug Mate of Towing

OVERVIEW

Since 1977, Miller's Launch's most important goal is to please customers on, near or across the waters in New York (NY), New Jersey (NJ) and Connecticut (CT). Since then we have had vessels work up and down all coasts of the US as well as internationally. The Company policy has always been to conduct its business in such a way to strive for excellence in safeguarding employees, equipment, the public and environment, zero harm to people, zero incident and zero spill. The Company recognizes that it is vital, and essential to integrate safety into all operations and activities.

From the solitary launch passenger to the largest corporate accounts, our prime objective is customer satisfaction through our "can-do" attitude. For Miller's Launch, there is no such thing as after-hours. We serve the port of the Tri-State Area 24 hours a day, providing prompt response and stellar marine support.

Miller's Launch's marine professionals and top-notch equipment will assure the success of your task. Our personnel are federally licensed operators, certified welders, custom fabricators and fully trained and certified pollution and environmental specialists. Miller’s Launch operates a fleet of about 70 pieces of floating equipment including but not limited to: offshore supply vessels, tugboats, crew boats, utility boats, launch boats, small work boats, rib boats, roll-on roll-off systems, barges and cranes.

Miller’s Launch isn’t just supply boats, tugboats or launch boats we adapt to our clients’ needs and wants. From moving heavy equipment or trucks on and off islands, to offshore wind support, emergency oil spill response, to film/photo/drone shoots and productions.

Our business is the water.

POSITION:

Millers Launch Inc. is seeking a qualified individual to fill a full-time position as a Tug Mate, working a two week on two week off rotation. The successful candidate will be responsible for the management and documentation of widespread safety, health and environmental policies for the vessel. This individual will be responsible for the vessel’s compliance with local, state, federal and international laws and regulations pertaining to navigation, safety, health, and environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Work as directed by Towing and/or project personnel

· Stand wheelhouse watch on the assigned vessel

· Comply with all state and federal regulatory requirements

· Responsible for executing MT&B Towing Safety Management System (TSMS) aboard the assigned vessel

· Preparation, management, and facilitation of safety meetings and safety drills

· Complete Job Safety Analysis (JSA) and or Activity Hazard Analysis (AHA)

· Delegate daily tasks to the crew to ensure operational readiness

· Oversees training and mentoring of crew members

· Follows company and work site safety policies/procedures and commits to an “incident and injury-free” work environment

· Responsible for the safe transportation of barges vessels and crew

· Responsible for maintenance and cleanliness of tug and barge

· Direct crew in the performance of drills

· Determine the need for and assign lookouts as necessary

· Prepare, monitor, and update vessel work lists and maintenance schedules

· Ensure all crewmen are performing their duties

· Work aboard boats and barges using heavy lines, winches, mechanical tools for repairs as needed

· Perform other duties as assigned

REQUIREMENTS:

· 5+ years total experience with at least 2+ years of experience in a Mate role

· Merchant Mariners Credentials (MMC) Master 100 Ton Near Coastal

· Mate of Towing endorsement

· Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

· CPR/AED First Aid Certification

· Driver's License

· Knowledge of NY Harbor a Plus

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

· Must be able to tolerate rough seas, vibrations, heat, harsh weather conditions, confined spaces, and high noise levels

· Work will frequently require individuals to push, pull, bend or stand for long periods of time, and climb ladders that have capacity limits of 300 lbs.

· Must be able to lift or carry miscellaneous equipment, supplies, and parts up to 50 lbs. unassisted

· Ability to maneuver through/in/around small and/or confined areas within a vessel, as applicable Must be able to maintain both static and dynamic standing balance to complete various duties associated with the job

· Must be capable of performing emergency duties as listed in the vessel’s station bill when onboard a vessel

BENEFITS:

Miller’s Launch offers excellent benefits for medical, dental, vision, 401k with employer match, and PTO.

Millers Launch is an equal-opportunity employer.

Company Description

Providing First-Class Marine Service Since 1977.

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. Our Local knowledge helps us provide the best marine support that our customers have come to depend on.