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Tug Driver Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Captain

Seattle, WA · On-site

$1.0K/day

Responsible for maintenance and cleanliness of tug and barge. Responsibilities The job ... Must have valid states driver's license. * Valid radio operator's license. * Must be able to ...

Captain

Seattle, WA · On-site

$780 - $1.0K/day

Responsible for maintenance and cleanliness of tug and barge. The job responsibilities include but ... Must have valid states driver's license. * Valid radio operator's license. * Must be able to ...

Mate, OTB

Seattle, WA · On-site

$600 - $686/hr

Acts as second in command of the tug and barge. Must be able to understand and carry out the orders ... Valid state driver's license. * GMDSS and ECDIS preferred. * Ability to live in confined spaces and ...

Mate, OTB

Seattle, WA · On-site

$686/wk

Overview Acts as second in command of the tug and barge. Must be able to understand and carry out ... Valid state driver's license. * GMDSS and ECDIS preferred. Job Condition and Environment * Ability ...

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Tug Driver information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$6

$17

$22

How much do tug driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug driver in Seattle, WA is $17.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $20.53 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 Seattle, WA?

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

What job categories do people searching Tug Driver jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Tug Driver jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Infographic showing various Tug Driver job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,887 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Mate - Olympic Tug and Barge

Centerline Logistics Corporation

Seattle, WA • On-site

$600 - $686/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 hours ago

Posted today


Centerline Logistics rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Acts as second in command of the tug and barge. Must be able to understand and carry out the orders and directions of the Captain. Must be prepared to assume command in the event of incapacity of the captain. Responsible for safely making and breaking tow with barges, handling lines and wires. Responsible for maintenance and cleanliness of the vessel.


The job responsibilities include, but are not limited, to the following:

  • Stands wheelhouse watch alternating with captain.
  • Oversees safety of vessel including all installed equipment and inspections thereof.
  • Maintains chart and publication corrections.
  • Instructs Deckhands in seamanship skills.
  • Assist Captain in barge landings and must be able to communicate distances and directions to Captain accurately and concisely.
  • Determine the need for and assign lookouts as necessary.
  • Inspect for cleanliness of vessel.
  • Inventory supplies and order as appropriate.
  • Monitor onboard usage to ensure supplies are utilized in an efficient manner.

  • Experience as a Mate or Master of a tug hauling oil barges.
  • Minimum 200 Ton Mate Near Coastal USCG license with towing endorsement.
  • Permanent residence in Washington preferred.
  • Radar observer endorsement required.
  • Must have Coast Guard approved firefighting training.
  • Must be able to communicate in English and effectively direct workers in assigning jobs and seeing them through to completion.
  • Must be able to train assigned workers.
  • Must be able to fairly evaluate subordinates.
  • Must be able to understand and use information in cargo information cards and material safety data sheets.
  • Must be able to read, speak, and understand English over telephone and/or radio.
  • Must be able to instruct Deckhand on use of all tools and machinery onboard vessel.
  • Valid First aid/ CPR certificates.
  • Complete HAZWOPER training within 90 days of hire.
  • Valid state driver’s license.
  • GMDSS and ECDIS preferred. 

  • Ability to live in confined spaces and get along with crew members for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to perform the functions set forth in the attached job analysis and be physically fit enough to pull heavy lines/hoses, lift, carry heavy items, kneel while painting, climb onto barges and up and down ladders, and bending and twisting during boat/barge tie up.
  • Work aboard boats and barges using pike poles, heavy lines, winches, mechanical tools for repairs, paint, thinner, paint brushes/rollers, paint chipping tools, cleaning solvents, kitchen utensils/cookware, power cords.
  • Exposure to all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, heat, wind, heavy seas, etc.)
  • Must not be afraid of heights.

  • Ability to adapt to a variety of schedules and hours
  • Able to work weekends, holidays, and at night. Willing to take call outs.

Centerline Logistics is a leading provider of marine transportation services in the United States. Centerline Logistics operates on the United States West Coast (including Alaska and Hawaii), United States East Coast (including Puerto Rico), the United States Gulf Coast and the Mississippi River System. Services provided include the transportation and storage of petroleum products, tanker escort, ship assist, the transportation of general cargo and rescue towing. Centerline Logistics is the parent company of eight businesses specializing in marine services and a bulk liquids terminal business. Centerline Logistics provides accounting, administrative, human resources, safety and environmental services, and other support to the subsidiary companies.

The Company offers Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and AD&D options to our employees and their eligible dependents after meeting Company requirements. 401(k) options, Disability Insurance, sick pay, vacation pay, 10 paid holidays per calendar year (subject to work schedule) and Healthcare and/or Dependent Care FSAs are also available to our employees after meeting Company requirements. All benefits information may be subject to change based on any current or updated benefit plan year changes and/or Collective Bargaining Agreements.

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity and Drug Free Work place. Pre-employment drug testing is required.


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