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Tug Driver Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Class A Route Driver - National DCP Location: McDonough, GA Job Type: Full-time Shift: 5-day ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

Class A Route Driver - National DCP Location: McDonough, GA Job Type: Full-time Shift: 5-day ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

Class A Route Driver - National DCP Location: McDonough, GA Job Type: Full-time Shift: 5-day ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

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Tug Driver information

See Georgia salary details

$4

$13

$16

How much do tug driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug driver in Georgia is $13.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.16 and $15.24 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 Georgia? For Tug Driver jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Tug Driver jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for Tug Driver jobs in Georgia are:
Infographic showing various Tug Driver job openings in Georgia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $27,353 per year, or $13.2 per hour.

Class A Route Driver

National DCP

Mcdonough, GA • On-site

$90K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


National DCP rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview
Job Title: Class A Route Driver - National DCP
Location: McDonough, GA
Job Type: Full-time
Shift: 5-day workweek 3am start time.
Overview:
Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Driver, delivering products safely and on-time to Dunkin' franchise stores and production kitchens. This role involves working in varied temperature environments and outdoor conditions. NDCP is a $3 billion supply chain company supporting over 10,000 Dunkin' locations across the U.S.
Why Join Us?
  • Competitive hourly pay: $36.95/hour
  • Top earners make $90,000 + per year
  • 100% Touch Freight
  • Solo routes, Driver/Driver routes and Driver/Helper routes available.

Benefits you can count on:
National DCP offers a robust benefits suite check out our career page for our full list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental & vision insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) / Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Company-paid life, AD&D, short- and long-term disability
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Paid Time Off (vacation, sick, discretionary) & paid holidays and more!
  • Additional benefits: employee assistance programs, discount programs, tuition discount program, and more!

We have frequent and recurring needs for Class A Driver in the McDonough, GA area. We encourage you to apply if you are interested in being among the first to be considered as opportunities arise."
Responsibilities
What you'll do
  • Operates a tractor trailer truck that transports product to and from specified destinations.
  • Conduct a proper pre-trip inspection to ensure the vehicle is safe to operate.
  • Ensures delivery-related paperwork is in order before departing the Distribution Center or transportation hub.
  • Prepares, receives and provides appropriate documentation for the delivery of products.
  • Maintains proper logs of travel and product according to Federal, State and DOT regulations.
  • Maintains contact with NDCP's Member Services team to communicate any problems or delays with deliveries.
  • Ensures the cleanliness and presentation of the interior of the truck cab, as well as the removal of delivery-related trash at the store and production kitchen (i.e., shrink wrap, cardboard, crates and pallets).
  • Conduct a proper post-trip inspection to ensure equipment is in good working order to minimize delays the following day. Reports any vehicle maintenance or malfunction issues to the distribution center.
  • Serves as the face of NDCP and the main point of contact between the distribution center and the customer.

Qualifications
Qualifications you bring:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent experience preferred
  • Valid Class A CDL license with a clean driving record. 6-month driving experience minimum, 1 year desired
  • Possess a current DOT Medical Certification Card and successfully pass DOT pre-employment requirements
  • Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to delivery product to stores over multiple stops per shift
  • Dependable attendance and a great customer service attitude
  • Ability to operate a 10-speed manual transmission
  • Ability to operate a lift gate and refrigeration unit
  • Must be able to read and communicate in the English language - able to hold a conversation, understand highway traffic signs and signals, respond to official inquiries, and enter information on reports and records.

Equal Opportunity Employer: NDCP is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status
#IND123

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