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Tug Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... port engineers, shoreside staff, and tug crews. External interactions include towing companies, Port of Corpus Christi (POCC) harbor masters, Pilots, Pilot dispatchers, vessel agents, terminal ...

... tug and barge. Oversee the installation and repair of systems and equipment on board by outside contractors. Responsibilities/Job Duties * Responsible for engineering personnel and operating and ...

... the tug and barge. Responsibilities / Job Duties: * Assisting the Chief Engineer and other ... engineering personnel in operating and maintaining the vessel's machinery, including engines ...

Senior Engineer Mooring

Houston, TX

$99K - $137K/yr

Looking for Senior Engineer (Moorings) to be part of Global Moorings Department. Candidate will be ... vessel/tug. Good knowledge at coordinating project equipment in material yard. Working ...

Senior Engineer Mooring

Houston, TX · On-site

$99K - $137K/yr

Looking for Senior Engineer (Moorings) to be part of Global Moorings Department. Candidate will be ... vessel/tug. Good knowledge at coordinating project equipment in material yard. Working ...

Licensed Engineer

Port Arthur, TX · On-site

$54.16 - $62.04/hr

The engineer has primary responsibility for the maintenance and operation of all machinery ... Working on deck, including ship docking and tug mooring operations. * Acting as a lookout. * Other ...

Port Engineer

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$103K - $114K/yr

... tug Captains & Engineers. Effective communication, coordination and personnel interface are key to the success of this position. The Port Engineer is required to be fully conversant with, and ...

... tug and barge. Oversee the installation and repair of systems and equipment on board by outside contractors. Responsibilities/Job Duties * Responsible for engineering personnel and operating and ...

CHIEF ENGINEER

Seattle, WA · On-site

$697.68/day

We're actively hiring a Chief Engineer, for our Ship Assist operation in the PNW. To include duties ... tug master. Must follow all Safety Directives and Vessel Security Procedures as well as CMS ...

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Tug Engineer information

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$21.5K

$81.3K

$164.5K

How much do tug engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for tug engineer in the United States is $81,319.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,000.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Tug Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tug Engineer, you need strong mechanical and electrical engineering skills, a deep understanding of marine propulsion systems, and relevant marine engineering qualifications or licenses. Familiarity with engine monitoring systems, maintenance tools, and certifications such as STCW Engineering Watchkeeping or Merchant Mariner documents are commonly required. Effective problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and strong communication skills with crew members and captains are essential soft skills. These qualifications are crucial to ensure tugboat safety, operational reliability, and efficient teamwork during demanding marine operations.

What is a Tug Engineer job?

A Tug Engineer is responsible for maintaining and repairing the mechanical and electrical systems on a tugboat. They ensure the vessel's engines, generators, pumps, and other critical equipment operate efficiently and safely. The role involves conducting routine inspections, troubleshooting issues, and performing necessary repairs to prevent operational downtime. Tug Engineers work closely with the captain and crew to support safe and efficient vessel operations.

What are the typical work hours and environment like for a Tug Engineer?

Tug Engineers often work in shifts, which can include nights, weekends, and extended periods onboard, depending on the nature of towing assignments and port schedules. The work environment is primarily onboard a tugboat, in engine rooms and other confined spaces, and can involve exposure to noise, heat, and variable weather conditions. Tug Engineers collaborate closely with the vessel’s captain, deck crew, and shore-based maintenance teams to ensure all systems are operating safely and efficiently. Adaptability and a proactive approach are valuable as tasks may range from routine maintenance to urgent troubleshooting in dynamic maritime situations.

More about Tug Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Tug Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Tug Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tug Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Tug Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Tug Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Tug Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Tug Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, and 75% Contract. Highlights an 13% Physical, and 87% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $81,319 per year, or $39.1 per hour.
OpCen Watchstander / Dispatcher

OpCen Watchstander / Dispatcher

G&H Towing

Deer Park, TX • On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description


JOB SUMMARY

The Watch Stander is a primary communicator between vessels, pilots, towing companies, agents, customers, and shoreside personnel. Receives orders from the harbor master, agents, and other representatives requiring harbor tug services in the Ports of Houston, Galveston/Texas City, Freeport, and Corpus Christi. Shifts during the first two weeks will be Monday – Friday, 0800 to 1600 or as directed, and then transition to a day or night shift working 12-hour shifts. The day shift will be from 0600 to 1800, and the night shift will be from 1800 to 0600. Shifts will be a four-day on, five-days off, five days on, and four-day off rotation.

KEY INTERACTION (INTERNAL & EXTERNAL)

Operations center manager, operations center assistant manager, watch supervisor, Corpus Christi operations coordinator, port captains, port engineers, shoreside staff, and tug crews. External interactions include towing companies, Port of Corpus Christi (POCC) harbor masters, Pilots, Pilot dispatchers, vessel agents, terminal operators, and regulatory agencies.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Ascertains and maintains awareness of the immediate status of all ongoing, near, and future jobs
  • Assigns tugs to vessel movements
  • Coordinates tug availability for fuel & lube servicing, tug maintenance & repairs, and crew changes
  • Coordinates tug availability with all departments and duty personnel when direct access to the tug by departmental personnel is necessary
  • Identifies any potential tug shortages as rapidly as possible and coordinates with the watch supervisor, harbor Pilot dispatchers, and towing companies
  • Keeps an updated time sheet of all service-degraded tugs, including times to return to full-service
  • Maintains an updated tug sheet of the location of all working, idle, and out-of-service tugs
  • Maintains direct contact with the POCC harbor master dispatchers, Galveston/Texas City Pilot dispatchers, Freeport Pilot dispatchers, Houston Pilot dispatchers, and harbor Pilots to provide the appropriate tug service for all upcoming jobs
  • Monitors all channel closures to ensure tugs are available to transit to and from unaffected docks and terminals
  • Provides solutions to problems and special requests
  • Receives emergency calls and records significant information
  • Will be required to stand an on-call watch as per the operating schedule of the OpCen
  • Willingness to work any shift

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

  • A High school diploma or GED is required; extensive experience may be considered in lieu of education
  • Attention to detail and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Minimum 1-year work experience in the maritime industry or 5 years of boating experience
  • Proficiency in speaking with nautical words, expressions, and phrases
  • Requires proficiency with computer hardware and software to include Microsoft Office applications, using a computer with a keyboard and mouse, navigation with a web browser, checking and sending email, and use of internet search engines
  • U.S. Navy (USN) and or U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) preferred

REQUIRED LICENSURE & CERTIFICATIONS

  • Must be able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Requires an active and valid Texas driver's license

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

  • Ability to always communicate effectively and professionally
  • Ability to deal with others using courtesy, tact, and good judgment
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with personnel and stakeholders
  • Ability to manage multiple demands simultaneously while maintaining service standards
  • Ability to maintain the confidentiality of all sensitive communications
  • Ability to operate a variety of standard office equipment, such as a calculator, telephone, photocopier, fax, etc.
  • Ability to understand and execute complex oral and written instructions
  • Ability to work at a computer desk for prolonged periods without loss of attention
  • Ability to work independently with minimal or no guidance
  • Ability to work some overtime when business needs arise
  • Advanced skills (obtained through either a minimum of three years of industry experience and/or certifications) are required for problem-solving, resource optimization, and resource allocation
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Interpersonal skills to include self-awareness and the ability to deal professionally with others, and always make professional judgments
  • Must be service-oriented and customer-centric to all internal and external customers
  • Must be a team player and support the mission, vision, and goals of G&H Towing and the department
  • Proven ability to troubleshoot, test resolutions, and escalate common issues
  • Proven analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Strong communication, organizational, analytical, time management, problem-solving, and planning skills

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Work hours will be assigned based on business needs; however, work hours will typically be: shifts during the first two weeks will be Monday – Friday 0800 to 1600 or as directed, and then transition to a day or night shift working 12-hour shifts. The day shift will be from 0600 to 1800, and the night shift will be from 1800 to 0600. Shifts will be a four-day on, five-days off, five days on, and four-day off rotation. By request from the department manager or department director. Work hours may include irregular hours to assist in completing special tasks or assignments
  • Out-of-regional travel may be required to attend training, seminars, or work-related events
  • Work will be performed in the office setting

SPECIAL PROJECTS

  • Assist the department manager or director when requested to complete special projects and complete all assignments within a negotiated time frame established by the department manager
  • Completion of other duties as assigned by the department manager, as it relates to the program and position

BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCIES

Time Management

  • Candidate must be able to prioritize and complete tasks in a timely manner, and should have the ability to work in a stressful and high-paced environment

Team Work

  • Must be able to collaborate with others to problem-solve and establish effective solutions to issues

Listening

  • Candidate must be able to understand and act upon verbal directions

Resourcefulness

  • Candidate must be unafraid to seek guidance and support from other employees to safely and effectively complete job duties


ESSENTIAL JOB-RELATED PHYSICAL & MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical:

  • Ability to ascend and descend stairs
  • Ability to bend, twist, kneel, stoop, and or reach for items
  • Ability to detect and write effectively
  • Ability to handle objects
  • Ability to have visual acuity to operate a motor vehicle and observe objects within the work setting
  • Ability to hear with or without aid
  • Ability to move around within an office setting and or other locations as needed
  • Ability to operate office equipment
  • Ability to push, pull, and or squat
  • Ability to remain in a stationary position for long periods
  • Ability to transport, adjust, and or move items up to 25 lbs
  • Ability to have visual acuity to operate a motor vehicle and observe objects within the work setting

Mental:

  • Ability to accept constructive criticism
  • Ability to anticipate needs
  • Ability to cultivate a positive working environment
  • Ability to express oneself clearly and effectively, orally and in writing, and use ethical and professional judgment
  • Ability to deal professionally, ethically, and effectively with customers, co-workers, vendors, and the public, including providing professional, prompt, responsive, efficient, and courteous customer service and assistance
  • Ability to maintain regular attendance
  • Ability to meet deadlines
  • Ability to be professional and use professional judgment 100% of the time
  • Ability to multitask and plan time efficiently 100% of the time
  • Ability to perform job description and duties with minor supervision
  • Ability to reason and analyze effectively
  • Ability to solve practical problems as they relate to the position
  • Ability to understand, communicate, and comprehend information in English
  • Ability to work professionally with others 100% of the time
  • Required to pass and maintain all mandatory training
  • Requires the ability to work collaboratively in a team setting
  • Requires the ability to treat everyone professionally with courtesy, decency, and respect

WORKSITE ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

  • Ability to work alone
  • Ability to work closely with others
  • Ability to work closely with customers who may have hygiene challenges
  • Ability to work long and or irregular hours
  • May be subjected to a hostile environment
  • Potential exposure to tobacco products
  • May be exposed to excessive noises
  • May be subjected to both inside and outside environmental conditions, which include variations in temperature, dampness, humidity, heat, and cold
  • May be subjected to exposure to fumes, dust, gases, and or chemicals
  • May be subjected to water and or liquids
  • Travel by motor vehicle, van, bus, or plane

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Management reserves the right to modify, assign, or remove duties as business needs dictate.

The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to maintaining a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications. All qualified applicants and employees will receive consideration without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation. The Company provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and for sincerely held religious beliefs and practices, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship. Individuals needing an accommodation during the application process or employment should contact Human Resources.