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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 ...

Electrical Engineer

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

To fulfill our mission Starfish developed the Otter space tug, including the Nautilus capture ... This engineer will do everything ranging from designing electrical schematics and PCB layouts, to ...

The unpredictable, ever-changing and inherently dangerous nature of tug and towing operations require the Engineer to be physically qualified to ensure his/her own safety, as well as that of the ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

NY · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Marine Systems Engineer - FL - On site job at Vensure Employer Solutions. Lithia, FL. Essential ... Familiarity with machinery and systems aboard commercial ships, workboats, tug/barges, passenger ...

New

Licensed Engineer

Port Arthur, TX · On-site

$85 - $92/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 ...

New

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 ...

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 ...

... 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 ...

Lead maintenance operations supporting commercial tug and barge fleet * Stable, well-established ... Port Engineers * Chief Engineers * Marine Maintenance Supervisors * Tugboat Engineers * Commercial ...

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Tug Engineer information

See salary details

$21.5K

$81.3K

$164.5K

How much do tug engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 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 is a tug engineer?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a tug engineer?

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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,319 per year, or $39.1 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Centerline Logistics rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Maintain the vessel's engine room and equipment in a state of readiness to perform work for customers as needed. Perform start up and shut down, troubleshooting, and maintenance of vessel power and propulsion systems. This job includes pulling heavy lines and hoses, working on oil and cargo barges, general vessel maintenance, and other tasks that may be assigned from time to time. Perform work as directed by captain and/or mate of vessel.


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

ENGINE ROOM WORK:

  • Preventive maintenance and underway repairs on main engines and gears, pumps, motors, plumbing, deck machinery (including towing winch(es)), and auxiliary generator units.
  • Perform routine periodic maintenance about tug and on barge as needed.
  • Maintain proper liquid levels for tug operations.
  • Perform lubrication services.
  • Monitor and record operating condition of engine room equipment.
  • Maintain daily log with proper readings and times.
  • Engine room must be kept clean and ready for operation at all times.
  • Wash down engine room weekly and at every decrew.
  • Fuel tug.

DECK WORK:

  • Make up all tows as directed by captain or mate.
  • Use the radio.
  • Knot tying, line/wire splicing, make up and handle heaving lines and messengers.
  • Make up and throw heaving lines.
  • Properly tie off barge tows.
  • Give proper direction and distance signals and information.
  • Paint inside and outside of tug on an on-going basis.
  • Loading supplies.
  • General cleanup of tugs and barges.
  • General cooking and galley duties as may be required.
  • Fill out material requisitions and work order forms.

  • Two years previous work experience on marine diesels necessary.
  • MMC and DDE Unlimited
  • PIC
  • Must be able to comprehend and respond and carry out specific orders from the Captain or Mate.
  • Ability to learn and make application of safety awareness, injury prevention, and firefighting.
  • Carry out essential job responsibilities and duties listed above with a minimum of direction.
  • Must be able to understand and use information contained in cargo information cards and material safety data sheets.
  • Operate all firefighting and lifesaving equipment aboard.
  • Electrical systems high (up to 480) and low voltage.
  • Knowledge of Hydraulic Systems.
  • Proper use of power tools including welding and cutting equipment.
  • Must be able to work independently and without direct supervision.
  • Must complete firefighting training within 6 months of hire.
  • Must have a valid first aid certificate.
  • Must have CPR training.
  • Complete HAZWOPER training within 30 days of hire.
  • Valid state driver’s license.

  • Exposure to all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, heat, wind, heavy seas, etc.)
  • 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 physically fit enough to pull heavy lines/hoses, lift, carry heavy items, climb onto barges and up and down ladders, and bending and twisting during boat/barge tie up.
  • 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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