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Tug Master Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sause Bros Inc

Master Northwest

Coos Bay, OR · On-site

The Tug Master is responsible for the overall voyage operation, management, and safety of Sause Bros.' vessels and their crews in accordance with approved company policies and procedures, and ...

Sause Bros

Master Northwest

Coos Bay, OR · On-site

The Tug Master is responsible for the overall voyage operation, management, and safety of Sause Bros.' vessels and their crews in accordance with approved company policies and procedures, and ...

Sause Bros.

Master Northwest

Coos Bay, OR · On-site

The Tug Master is responsible for the overall voyage operation, management, and safety of Sause Bros.' vessels and their crews in accordance with approved company policies and procedures, and ...

Harbor Docking & Towing LLC

Deckhand

Lake Charles, LA · On-site

The role of harbor tug Deckhand is to assist the tug Master and crew in the timely, efficient, and orderly operation of the company's tug. All Deckhands must hold the appropriate and unexpired ...

MILLERS TUG AND BARGE INC.

Be Seen First

Tug Mate/Captain of Towing

New York, NY · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Tug Mate of Towing OVERVIEW Since 1977, Miller's Launch's most important goal is to please ... MMC) Master 100 Ton Near Coastal · Mate of Towing endorsement · Transportation Worker ...

Vulcan Materials

LineHaul Tug Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$650 - $750/day

A 200-Ton Master Towing certification is also required. * Experience. Must have strong leadership and team management skills. Must have previous experience operating a tug boat in rivers and/or bays ...

TUG

HR Manager/Generalist

San Diego, CA · On-site

Required Technology Unlimited Group (TUG) is seeking a Human Resources Manager/Generalist to assist ... areas: · Master's degree in human resources. · 4+ years of experience in Human Resources ...

Vulcan Materials Company

LineHaul Tug Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$650 - $750/day

A 200-Ton Master Towing certification is also required. Experience. Must have strong leadership and team management skills. Must have previous experience operating a tug boat in rivers and/or bays ...

Island Tug and Barge CO.

Captain

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Company Description Island Tug and Barge Co. has operated as an independent, family-owned marine ... USCG Master credential appropriate to the vessels operated; valid TWIC card and relevant ...

Vulcan Materials Company

LineHaul Tug Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$650 - $750/day

A 200-Ton Master Towing certification is also required. Experience. Must have strong leadership and team management skills. Must have previous experience operating a tug boat in rivers and/or bays ...

Colonial Group

Tug Captain

Savannah, GA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

The Master maintains vessel logs and required documentation, reports accidents, injuries, and operational deficiencies, oversees vessel provisioning and supply management, and ensures the ...

Crowley Maritime Corporation

CHIEF ENGINEER

Oakland, CA

$433.44 - $725.64/day

In addition, general deck duties including line handling and any other duties deemed necessary by the tug master. Must follow all Safety Directives and Vessel Security Procedures as well as Crowley ...

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Tug Master information

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$12

$58

$81

How much do tug master jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug master in the United States is $58.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.52 and $66.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tug master?

A Tug Master is responsible for operating and maneuvering tugboats to assist larger vessels in ports, harbors, or open waters. They ensure safe navigation, towing, and docking by using their knowledge of maritime regulations, weather conditions, and vessel handling. Tug Masters work closely with harbor pilots, ship captains, and port authorities to ensure efficient operations. Their role requires strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and relevant maritime certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tug master?

To thrive as a Tug Master, you must have strong vessel handling skills, maritime navigation knowledge, and typically possess relevant maritime certifications such as a Master’s license or STCW qualifications. Familiarity with marine communication systems, towing equipment, and international maritime regulations is crucial for safe operations. Leadership, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are important soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure the safe maneuvering of vessels, efficient teamwork, and the smooth execution of harbor and towing operations.

What are the typical working hours and conditions for a tug master?

Tug Masters often work in shifts, which may include nights, weekends, or extended hours depending on port activity and vessel schedules. The role involves working outdoors in various weather conditions and requires alertness and quick decision-making in sometimes challenging environments. Work is typically team-oriented, collaborating with crew members, harbor pilots, and port authorities to manage vessel towing and docking. Flexibility and readiness are essential, as tasks can vary daily based on shipping traffic and operational demands.

How much do tug masters make?

Tug masters typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the vessels they operate. They often require certifications such as a towing or marine license and work in maritime or port environments, sometimes on rotating shifts.
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Tug Master jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tug Master job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,688 per year, or $58 per hour.

Master Northwest

Coos Bay, OR • On-site

Sause Bros Inc
Water Transportation • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Sause Bros Incexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Description

General Description:

The Tug Master is responsible for the overall voyage operation, management, and safety of Sause Bros.' vessels and their crews in accordance with approved company policies and procedures, and applicable federal and state and customer regulations. This position interfaces with all Area Port Captains and Area Port Engineers, (as necessary) to ensure that towing operations are conducted in a safe, efficient, and professional manner.

Responsibilities/Performance Standards:

1. Coordinate vessel and crew operations on a per voyage basis.

2. Evaluate the performance of all crewmembers as outlined in the Management and Administration Manual. Conduct navigational audits on Mates. Review performance evaluation with employee.

3. Provide for the leadership and supervision of crew members in their respective duties, both in port and while underway.

4. Conduct all operations in accordance with applicable federal, state, and USCG regulations, and company policies, procedures and guidelines.

5. Conduct inspections as outlined in the Towing Vessel Operations manual.

6. Maintain all required logs and documentation pertaining to the vessel, its operations, and its crew; including federal, state, company, and other required documents.

7. Conduct incident, damage, or loss investigations as directed by port management.

8. Assist barge-loading personnel with the tug's resources and equipment.

9. Conduct crew safety meetings, emergency drills, and safety management system reviews as outlined in the Management and Administration and Towing Vessel Operations Manuals.

10. Conduct JSA's, risk assessments and MOC's as outlined in the Management and Administration and Towing Vessel Operations Manuals.

11. Contact Sause Bros. area operations office daily while at sea or in port, reporting position, weather, and other pertinent information.

12. Assist crew members in maintaining or upgrading their seamanship skills as appropriate.

13. Maintain leadership in emergency situations involving the vessel or crew.

14. Respond to oil or chemical spills in accordance with procedures outlined in the Emergency Procedures Manual.

15. Hold and maintain all necessary certifications and licenses appropriate to the position of Master on a Sause Bros. towing vessel.

16. Wear personal protective equipment as necessary to safely complete job tasks.

17. Function as Vessel Security Officer.

18. Provide appropriate training and guidance to Training Mates.

19. Successfully complete annual Coast Guard physical examination.

20. Participate in monthly Master's safety committee meeting.

21. Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Valid Merchant Mariner Credential

2. Valid license for Master 500 GRT on Ocean routes with Master of Towing Vessels endorsement

3. Valid TWIC

4. Valid Passport

5. STCW II/2, VI/5

6. Radar Observer endorsement

7. ARPA training certificate.

8. Marine Radio Operators Permit

9. Designated Examiner Approval

10. The Master will have demonstrated capability, reliability, and high regard for the safety of vessel and crew, and appropriate leadership ability

11. Or as approved by the President

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