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Tug Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Curtin Maritime

Deckhand Trainee

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Due to the diverse nature of our work, new employees can purse a career on a tug boat, from deckhand to captain, operating cranes and equipment (offshore and shoreside), welding and building ...

Curtin Maritime

Deckhand Trainee

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Due to the diverse nature of our work, new employees can purse a career on a tug boat, from deckhand to captain, operating cranes and equipment (offshore and shoreside), welding and building ...

ABO Plasma

Donor Screener

San Diego, CA · On-site

General Requirements - Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures, Current Good Manufacturing ... Ability to lift, tug, and pull up to 50 pounds. Ability to read while standing or sitting in front ...

ABO Plasma

Phlebotomist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

General Requirements - Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures, Current Good Manufacturing ... Ability to lift, tug, and pull up to 50 pounds. Ability to read while standing or sitting in front ...

ABO Plasma

Plasma Process Lab Tech

San Diego, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

General Requirements - Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures, Current Good Manufacturing ... Ability to lift, tug, and pull up to 50 pounds. WORK ENVIRONMENT This role routinely uses standard ...

Crowley Maritime Corporation

CHIEF ENGINEER

Oakland, CA

$433.44 - $725.64/day

S.-owned and operated company, Crowley provides services to 36 nations and island territories. Our ... by the tug master. Must follow all Safety Directives and Vessel Security Procedures as well as ...

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Tug Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$24

$34

How much do tug operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug operator in California is $24.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $29.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tug operator?

Tug operators are professionals who operate tugboats to assist with the maneuvering of ships and other large vessels in harbors, rivers, and canals. Their main duties involve towing, pushing, or guiding ships safely to their berths or out to open water, often in confined or busy waterways. Tug operators must have strong navigational skills, knowledge of maritime regulations, and the ability to work as part of a team to ensure safe and efficient vessel movements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tug operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tug Operator, you need a solid understanding of vessel handling, navigation, and maritime safety, typically supported by a relevant maritime license such as an MMC (Merchant Mariner Credential) and experience in marine operations. Familiarity with navigation systems, marine radios, and towing equipment is essential for daily operations. Strong communication, situational awareness, and teamwork skills help ensure safe and efficient maneuvering in busy ports. These competencies are vital for preventing accidents, protecting cargo, and supporting the smooth flow of maritime traffic.

What are some common challenges tug operators face during daily operations, and how can these be managed?

Tug Operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, tight maneuvering spaces in busy ports, and coordinating with multiple vessels and harbor staff. Managing these challenges involves strong communication skills, a thorough understanding of maritime safety protocols, and the ability to quickly adapt to changing situations. Regular training, adherence to established procedures, and effective teamwork are essential for ensuring safe and efficient operations.
Tug Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tug Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,203 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Foss Captain - Long Beach, CA

Long Beach, CA • On-site

Foss Maritime
Transportation and Warehousing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Foss Maritimeexternal

$148K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

About Foss Maritime
Foss Maritime is one of the most recognized and respected maritime brands in the U.S., combining a rich legacy with a forward-thinking approach to industry innovation. While deeply rooted in tradition, Foss is evolving at a fast pace, continuously setting new standards for operational excellence and sustainability.
With operations spanning all U.S. coasts and global transportation projects, Foss is a leader in harbor and terminal towage, tug and barge transportation, and offshore energy solutions, including traditional energy and offshore wind projects. Our primary operations are on the U.S. West Coast, Alaska, and Hawaii.
As part of the Saltchuk family of companies, Foss is a values-driven organization that takes pride in its exceptional team, commitment to safety, and dedication to customer success. With a culture built on integrity, innovation, and collaboration, Foss Maritime remains a trusted leader in the maritime industry.
About the Role
The primary responsibility and authority for the execution of all vessel assignments including, but not limited to, planning the most efficient and safe operation of the vessel and its crew, implementing the operating plan in a cost-effective manner, and evaluating and reporting the results. It is the responsibility of all Masters to ensure compliance with policies and procedures, requirements and documentation in the Foss Safety Management System Manual (SMS). Masters have the specific obligation to ensure that all personnel assigned to vessels are provided with information, instructions and directions necessary for meeting the program objectives of safety, environmental protection and quality service through knowledgeable and competent execution of assigned tasks.
What You'll Do
  • Ensures safe navigation of the vessel at all times.
  • Conducts required drills, training, safety meetings and maintains records of such, per company policy.
  • Conducts and ensures compliance with vessel maintenance and inspection requirements as prescribed by the company.
  • Inspects vessel to ensure conformance with safety standards and maritime regulations.
  • Work closely with customers, pilots and appropriate government agencies to ensure the proper performance of the job.
  • Ensures prompt and accurate reporting of all equipment failures, illnesses, incidents, accidents and damages.
  • Maintains current knowledge of all maritime laws.
  • Directs and supervises crew members in safe and productive operation of the vessel, its machinery and equipment.
  • Holds crew accountable for their adherence to maritime law, company policies and procedures, and their individual performance/productivity.
  • Evaluate all crewmembers in accordance with Company policy and take action as necessary.

What We're Looking For
  • Thorough knowledge of vessel handling and navigational skills commensurate with operating assignments.
  • Working knowledge of propulsion, auxiliary and deck machinery.
  • Must possess strong written and oral communicative skills.
  • Must be able to economically supervise all aspects of the operation of the vessel, its cargo and crew.
  • Must be able to work independently and without direct supervision.
  • Ability to withstand exposure to all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, heat, wind, heavy seas, etc.)
  • Ability to adapt to a variety of schedules and hours
  • Able to work weekends, holidays, and at night. Willing to take call outs.
  • Must possess and maintain a National Master 500/1600 OC or NC license, National Master of Towing, STCW, Radar Endorsement, MMC, and TWIC.
  • 5 years experience as a Master on towing vessels.
  • Conventional tug experience preferred.
  • Z drive tug experience required.

What We Offer
The hourly rate for this position is $17.77 until checked off. The hourly rate for this position once verified is 20.64. For a full-time Captain, this equates to an estimated annual salary of approximately $148,112.64, depending on total hours worked throughout the year. Captains are paid on a 24-hour scale with varying hours of ST, OT, and DT rate.
How to Apply
Ready to set sail with Foss? Submit your application via our careers page. If you need any assistance please reach out to fossjobs@foss.com. We look forward to welcoming you aboard.
Drug Free Workplace
Foss Maritime Company LLC is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Foss Maritime Company LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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