ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Tug Driver Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

National DCP

Driver

Fort Pierce, FL

$90K/yr

Driver - National DCP Location: Ft. Pierce, FL Job Type: Full-time Shift: 4-day workweek (Mon, Tues ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

National DCP

Driver

Fort Pierce, FL · On-site

$90K/yr

Driver - National DCP Location: Ft. Pierce, FL Job Type: Full-time Shift: 4-day workweek (Mon, Tues ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

National DCP

Driver

Fort Pierce, FL

$90K/yr

Driver - National DCP Location: Ft. Pierce, FL Job Type: Full-time Shift: 4-day workweek (Mon, Tues ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

National DCP

Driver, Shuttle

Tampa, FL · On-site

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Shuttle Driver, delivering products safely and on time to Dunkin ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

New

National DCP

Driver, Shuttle

Tampa, FL

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Shuttle Driver, delivering products safely and on time to Dunkin ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack ...

New

National DCP

Driver, Shuttle

Tampa, FL

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Shuttle Driver, delivering products safely and on time to Dunkin ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

New

National DCP

Double Shuttle Driver

Groveland, FL · On-site

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Double Shuttle Driver, delivering products safely and on time to ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

National DCP

Double Shuttle Driver

Groveland, FL · On-site

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Double Shuttle Driver, delivering products safely and on time to ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

National DCP

Double Shuttle Driver

Groveland, FL

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Double Shuttle Driver, delivering products safely and on time to ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack ...

National DCP

Driver, Shuttle

Tampa, FL

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Shuttle Driver, delivering products safely and on time to Dunkin ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack ...

New

National DCP

Double Shuttle Driver

Groveland, FL · On-site

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Double Shuttle Driver, delivering products safely and on time to ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack ...

Border States

CDL Driver - Class A

Tampa, FL · On-site

Maintains a clean vehicle, daily driver logs, and daily vehicle inspection reports. Completes truck ... tug) - Occasionally Handling (applying pressure to an object with the fingers and palm ...

Menzies Aviation

Lead Ramp Agent

Melbourne, FL

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Connects tow bar and tug for push back or towing aircraft. * Operates headset/radio to provide ... Posess/maintain a valid Driver's License and other FAA required identification/seals. * Must be ...

Menzies Aviation

Lead Ramp Agent

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Connects tow bar and tug for push back or towing aircraft. * Operates headset/radio to provide ... Posess/maintain a valid Driver's License and other FAA required identification/seals. * Must be ...

City of Doral, FL

Auto Maintenance Technician

Doral, FL · On-site

$45K - $67K/yr

Must possess a State of Florida Driver's License with an acceptable driving record * ASE ... Pulling: Using upper extremities to exert force in order to draw, haul or tug objects in a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTug Driver JobsTug Driver Jobs in Florida

Tug Driver information

See Florida salary details

$3

$11

$14

How much do tug driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug driver in Florida is $11.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.77 and $13.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are tug drivers?

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 is the demand for tug boat jobs?

The demand for tug boat jobs is generally steady, especially in ports, shipping hubs, and maritime industries that require vessel maneuvering and assistance. Employment opportunities depend on economic activity in shipping, port operations, and maritime infrastructure, with experienced tug drivers often in consistent demand. Certifications in marine operations and safety are typically required for these roles.

How to become an aircraft tug driver?

To become an aircraft tug driver, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must complete on-the-job training or certification in aircraft ground handling and safety procedures. Some employers prefer candidates with experience operating heavy machinery or forklifts, and obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) may be required depending on the equipment used. Strong communication skills, attention to safety, and the ability to work in a fast-paced airport environment are essential.

What is the highest paying driving job?

For tug drivers, the highest paying positions are often found in maritime ports or large industrial facilities, where specialized skills such as operating heavy-duty equipment and adherence to safety standards are required. These roles typically offer higher wages due to the demanding environment and the need for certifications like OSHA or CDL licenses. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and employer, but port and terminal tug driving roles generally provide some of the highest pay in the driving industry.

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 jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Tug drivers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. Some highly experienced or owner-operator tugboat captains in the maritime industry can reach high six-figure incomes, but earning $500,000 or more is uncommon for standard tug driver positions. Advanced certifications, extensive experience, and working in high-demand environments can increase earning potential but rarely reach half a million dollars per year for this role.

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 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 popular job titles related to Tug Driver jobs in Florida? For Tug Driver jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Tug Driver jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Tug Driver jobs in Florida are:
Tug Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tug Driver job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $24,208 per year, or $11.6 per hour.

Licensed Tug Operator

HOLDEN MARINE TOWING INC

Callahan, FL • On-site

$48.48/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Captain (Union)

  • Directs and is responsible for the management, navigation, and safety of the crew, vessel and tow.
  • Ensures all operations comply with state, federal, and maritime regulatory requirements.
  • Attend safety meetings and completes job safety analyses (JSA).
  • Supervises the maintenance, repairs, and functions of all vessel equipment.
  • Responsible for record keeping of daily operations.
  • Aids in the orientation of new personnel.
  • Examines and adjust operations for tide, current, and weather conditions.
  • Reads and maintains navigational charts and aids.
  • This position is coastwise and requires work along the United States Atlantic and Gulf coasts.
  • A typical work schedule is four weeks on and two weeks off.
  • This position is represented by IUOE Local 25.
  • Wages start at $48.48 per hour with incentive pay for certain licenses, certifications, and certified endorsements.
  • Union provided benefits include medical, vision, dental, annuity/401K retirement plan, pension, and vacation.

Requirements

  • Valid Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Valid Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC)
  • Master of Towing Vessels
  • Radar Observer
  • STCW certification (if needed)
  • Valid driver's license
  • Pass USCG 719k physical examination
  • Pass pre-employment drug screening
  • Proficient computer skills
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 60 lbs
  • Ability to climb and descend steep stairs or ladders
  • Enter and work in tight, enclosed spaces
  • Withstand exposure to harsh environmental conditions such as rough seas, heat, rain, snow, ice, wind, and cold.
  • Live on-board in tight quarters for a full rotation
  • Drive and/or fly long distances to/from job site
  • Ability to work 84 hours a week
  • Ability to work nights, weekends and holidays
  • Subject to random drug and alcohol screenings