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Tug Driver Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Maintain and operate a forklift, tug and pallet jack safely and efficiently * Adhere to all FAA ... Must have a valid and unexpired US Driver's license. * Must be able to lift up to 70 lbs.

Building Inspector

Frisco, TX ยท On-site

$24.74 - $34.64/hr

Must possess a valid State of Texas Driver's License. Environmental Factors & Conditions/Physical ... Pulling - use upper extremities to exert force, haul, or tug. * Pushing - use upper extremities to ...

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Tug Driver information

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$4

$14

$18

How much do tug driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug driver in Texas is $14.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $16.78 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.

What are popular job titles related to Tug Driver jobs in Texas?

For Tug Driver jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Tug Driver jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Tug Driver job openings:

Infographic showing various Tug Driver job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,180 per year, or $14.5 per hour.

C RATE TECHNICIAN - BUS SHOP

Fort Worth Transportation Authority

Fort Worth, TX โ€ข On-site

$29.01 - $32.68/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform preventive maintenance and minor repairs on transit buses, trucks, automobiles, and related equipment.

  • Inspect, troubleshoot, adjust, and repair or replace lighting, electrical, mechanical, and basic systems on transit vehicles.

  • Assist with rebuilding major and minor equipment components, perform tune-ups, engine overhauls, and engine/transmission replacements.


Job description

*New Rates*

C-Rate Technician: $29.01/hour

B-Rate Technician: $30.47/ hour

A-Rate Technician: $32.68/ hour

 

Trinity Metro has an immediate opening for a Bus Shop Technician.  The incumbent will perform preventive maintenance and minor repairs on transit buses, trucks, automobiles, and related equipment as well as assist other technicians with more complex repairs.
Responsibilities for this position include:

  • Lubricates and services all transit vehicles and equipment; use steam machine to clean engine compartment and other areas/components as needed.
  • Repairs transit buses, trucks, automobiles and related equipment (excluding body/fender fabrication, repair of major body damage and painting requiring mixing paint)
  • Inspects, troubleshoots, adjusts and repairs/replaces lighting, electrical, mechanical, air conditioning components, charging, starting and other basic systems including, but not limited to, seat inserts/cushions, ad racks, interior and exterior panels not requiring fabrication, and applying touch up paint (paint not requiring mixing) on all transit vehicles.
  • Replaces water pumps, generators, light bulbs, switches, tires, air system, steering components, batteries, body interior/exterior panels, seat cushions/inserts and other vehicle components; change oil, engine and transmission fluids; change oil filters.
  • Removes, repairs, and installs engines, transmissions and accessory units, and all components on buses and support equipment; installs and maintains compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles and bus fuel systems.
  • Assists in rebuilding major and minor equipment components and complex vehicle
  • Performs tune-ups, inframe over-hauls, and engine/transmission replacements.
  • Starts buses to prepare for morning pullout; operates all transit buses, trucks and automobiles, both on and off the property, as needed; operates forklift, warehouse tug and farm tractor with attachments.
  • Makes emergency road calls and repairs; drives vehicles to dealerships for offsite repairs.
  • Performs preventive maintenance inspections and repairs.
  • Cleans own work area after each job is completed. Major cleans shop periodically to ensure safe work environment.
  • Calculate and measure specifications for installing and repairing vehicle components.
  • Installs accessory units and adjusts/repairs brakes as required.

EXPERIENCE
One to two years experience servicing, maintaining and repairing motor vehicles, transit buses, heavy equipment, or related equipment.
A Texas Class B CDL driver’s license (with air brake and passenger endorsements), or the ability to obtain one within 90 days of employment

SCHEDULE

The schedule for this position will be Saturday through Wednesday, off days: Thursday and Friday. 
SHIFT DIFFERENTIAL PAY
2nd Shift $2.00 per hour (shifts starting a 1 pm or later)
3rd Shift $3.00 per hour (shifts starting at 10 pm or later)
Weekend Any Shifts $4.00 per hour (shifts with a start time that begin on a Saturday or Sunday)
Trinity Metro is an Equal Employment/Affirmative Action Employer.