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Tug Master Jobs (NOW HIRING)

T. Parker Host

Push Boat Captain

Braithwaite, LA

Previous experience as Master of a twin-screw tug engaged in fleet work * Excellent communication skills in order to communicate effectively/efficiently with crew members, shore staff, customer, and ...

T. Parker Host

Push Boat Captain

Braithwaite, LA · On-site

Previous experience as Master of a twin-screw tug engaged in fleet work * Excellent communication skills in order to communicate effectively/efficiently with crew members, shore staff, customer, and ...

Vitus Energy, LLC

Captain - Master

Anchorage, AK

The Master is responsible for the safe operation of the tug and barge while underway, idle, and while engaged in cargo operations. The Master will provide directions to the crew, including setting ...

Vitus Energy LLC

Captain - Master

Anchorage, AK · On-site

The Master is responsible for the safe operation of the tug and barge while underway, idle, and while engaged in cargo operations. The Master will provide directions to the crew, including setting ...

Foss Maritime

Dredge Master Captain

Richmond, CA · On-site

$62.73 - $73.55/hr

S. coasts and global transportation projects, Foss is a leader in harbor and terminal towage, tug ... Must possess and maintain a National Master 500/1600 OC or NC license, National Master of Towing ...

McAllister Towing

Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

The Mate is responsible for assisting the Master with safe and efficient operation of the Tug. The Mate safely manages all towing operations and deck evolutions. The Mate navigates the vessel and ...

Colonial Group

NY · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

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

McAllister Towing

Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

The Mate is responsible for assisting the Master with safe and efficient operation of the Tug. The Mate safely manages all towing operations and deck evolutions. The Mate navigates the vessel and ...

McAllister Towing

Mate

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$708/day

The Mate is responsible for assisting the Master with safe and efficient operation of the Tug. The Mate safely manages all towing operations and deck evolutions. The Mate navigates the vessel and ...

McAllister Towing

Mate

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$708/day

The Mate is responsible for assisting the Master with safe and efficient operation of the Tug. The Mate safely manages all towing operations and deck evolutions. The Mate navigates the vessel and ...

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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 9, 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.

Captain (Inland 14/7)

Gretna, LA • On-site

JOHN W STONE OIL DISTRIBUTOR LLC
Oil and Gas Extraction • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about JOHN W STONE OIL DISTRIBUTOR LLCexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Company Description: John W. Stone Oil Distributor, LLC is the local leader in dockside, mid-streaming, and offshore fueling along the Mississippi River, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to Venice, Louisiana, and into the Gulf of Mexico.

Position: Captain.

Worksite: Inland Tug and Barges.

Work Schedule: 14 days on / 7 days off.

Home Port: Located in Gretna, Louisiana.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma (or Equivalent).
  • Reliable Transportation to and from Work.
  • Basic Computer Skills.
  • Valid Driver's License.
  • Acceptable Driving Record.
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Valid United States Coast Guard Medical Certificate.
  • Valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with Master of Towing Upon Great Lakes, Inland Waters and Western Rivers.
  • At Least Five Years of Work Experience as a Master of Towing on a Vessel of No Less than 200 Gross Tons.

Essential Job Duties:

  • Steer, navigate, maneuver, and operate tug and barges, together their appurtenances, in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Set courses and determine voyage plans.
  • Monitor deck operations, including the loading and unloading of equipment, goods, and cargo.
  • Complete, manage, and maintain shipboard documents, including vessel logs, voyage plans, daily checklists, JSAs, incident reports, and the like.
  • Ensure that the vessel is fully stocked with all necessary equipment, supplies, stores, and the like.
  • Create and submit requisitions for equipment, supplies, stores, and the like.
  • Record and report daily inventories of product and stores.
  • Manage, train, direct, assess, evaluate, and discipline the vessel's crew, including Deckhands, Tankerman, Appreciate Mates, and the like.
  • Perform basic first aid as needed.
  • Monitor and ensure the vessel's seaworthiness.
  • Use a computer and various computer programs.
  • Order groceries.
  • Drive crew changes vans.
  • Complete and submit various forms of paperwork.
  • Work, communicate, and interface with crewmembers, customers, office personnel, contractors, inspectors, auditors, government agencies, and other entities and people, some of which may speak a foreign language.
  • Perform drills.
  • Handle emergencies.
  • Conduct Job Safety Analysis (JSA).
  • Undertake action to ensure the overall safety and protection of people, property, and the environment.
  • Report incidents, including illnesses, injuries, property damage, and pollution.
  • Inspect the tug and barges, their appurtenances, and other equipment.
  • Ensure that the tug and barges, their appurtenances, and all other equipment is maintained in every way.
  • Ensure that the tug and barges, their appurtenances, and all other equipment is kept in good working order and condition.
  • Ensure that sanitary living and working conditions are maintained.
  • Communicate via a VHF radio.
  • Cook and prepare meals.
  • Troubleshoot problems.
  • Live and work in close quarters onboard a vessel in harsh weather conditions for weeks at a time.
  • Adhere to, comply with, and enforce company policies and all applicable laws, rules, and regulations, including United States Coast Guard Regulations, the company's Safety Management System (SMS), and the vessel's Certificate of Inspection (COI).

Physical Requirements: All offers of employment are conditioned on passing a drug screen (a DOT test, and a non-DOT hair test) and a fit-for-duty physical examination.

John W. Stone Oil Distributor, LLC is an EOE, including disability/vets.

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