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Tug Master Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 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 ...

Zachry

Tug Boat Captain

Mead, OK · On-site

Position Summary The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient ... Master of Towing Vessels License * OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification * CPR / First Aid Certification ...

Zachry

Tug Boat Captain

Mead, OK

Position Summary The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient ... Master of Towing Vessels License * OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification * CPR / First Aid Certification ...

Zachry

Tug Boat Captain

Mead, OK

Position Summary The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient ... Master of Towing Vessels License * OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification * CPR / First Aid Certification ...

Zachry

Tug Boat Captain

Mead, OK

Position Summary The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient ... Master of Towing Vessels License * OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification * CPR / First Aid Certification ...

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 ...

Vulcan Materials Company

LineHaul Tug Mate

Norfolk, VA

$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 ...

Young Brothers LLC

Tugboat Master I

Honolulu, HI · On-site

Various missions of the tug include: docking and undocking of ship and barges, general towage of a ... ship's Master. * Directs crew in the deployment and recovery of working gear, other traffic ...

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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 Jul 26, 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.

How do you get a job on a tugboat?

To become a tug master, you typically need to gain experience as a deckhand or mate, obtain relevant certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential and a towing endorsement, and accumulate sea service hours. Many employers prefer candidates with maritime training, safety training, and familiarity with vessel operations.

What is a Tug Master job?

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.

How to become a tug master?

To become a tug master, candidates typically need a maritime or engineering background, along with relevant certifications such as a towing or pilotage license. Experience operating tugboats and knowledge of safety protocols are essential, and some positions require a minimum number of sea hours or years at sea. Training programs and on-the-job experience are common pathways to this role.

What is the role of a tug master?

A tug master is responsible for overseeing the operation of tugboats that assist in maneuvering ships in ports, harbors, or through narrow waterways. They ensure safe and efficient vessel movements, often coordinating with crew and using navigation tools, and typically hold relevant certifications and licenses. Their role requires strong knowledge of maritime safety procedures and vessel handling skills.

How much do people make working on a tugboat?

Tug masters typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the vessel. Salaries can increase with certifications, such as towing or marine licenses, and working in offshore or busy port environments often offers higher pay. Overtime and shift work are common in this industry, impacting overall earnings.

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

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.

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Tug Master jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tug Master job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,688 per year, or $58 per hour.
Master Northwest

Master Northwest

Sause Bros

Coos Bay, OR • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 hours ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
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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