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Tug Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

AAA United States, Inc. has partnered with a company in Portland, Oregon that is the premiere West Coast shipyard for building large Jones Act compliant articulated tug barges, deck barges, dump ...

Physical Requirements • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods and perform repetitive motor tasks such as drawing blood. • Ability to tug, lift, and pull up to thirty-five (35) pounds. • ...

New

Tug driving experience on the flight line. * Experience using aircraft air conditioning (A/C) carts. * Marshalling experience guiding aircraft on the ramp. * Military aircraft maintenance or ...

Aircraft Sheet Metal Mechanic IV

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$25.75 - $33.75/hr

Operate Ground Support Equipment (Power Cart, Tug, Forklift, etc.). Provide own tools with the exception of specialty tools. Remove, inspect, repair, and reinstall aircraft parts/systems. Annotate ...

Aircraft Sheet Metal Mech IV

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$25.75 - $33.75/hr

Operate Ground Support Equipment (Power Cart, Tug, Forklift, etc.). Provide own tools with the exception of specialty tools. Remove, inspect, repair, and reinstall aircraft parts/systems. Annotate ...

Innovation Technician

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

Push objects forward, downward, or outward with sustained force using the upper extremities to press with steady force and drag, draw, haul, or tug objects * Able to work both inside and outside in ...

Innovation Technician

Madison, AL

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Push objects forward, downward, or outward with sustained force using the upper extremities to press with steady force and drag, draw, haul, or tug objects * Able to work both inside and outside in ...

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Tug information

See Alabama salary details

$6

$19

$44

How much do tug jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug in Alabama is $19.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tug?

Tugs, also known as tugboats, are specialized vessels designed to maneuver other vessels by pushing or towing them. They are commonly used in harbors, ports, and canals to assist ships in docking, undocking, and navigating through tight or crowded areas. Tugs are equipped with powerful engines and are highly maneuverable, making them essential for moving large ships that can't easily navigate these spaces on their own.

How to get hired on a tug?

To get hired as a tugboat operator, candidates typically need a valid maritime license such as a Merchant Mariner Credential and relevant experience operating vessels. Employers also look for strong navigation skills, safety training, and the ability to work in challenging environments, often requiring physical fitness and adherence to safety regulations.

What is the difference between Tug vs Crane Operator?

AspectTugCrane Operator
CredentialsMaritime licenses, certifications in vessel operationCrane operation certifications, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentMaritime, dockyards, portsConstruction sites, industrial facilities, ports
Industry UsageShipping, logistics, port operationsConstruction, manufacturing, shipping

While both Tug and Crane Operator roles involve heavy machinery, Tug operators primarily work on water, maneuvering vessels in ports and harbors, requiring maritime certifications. Crane Operators work on land, operating cranes in construction or industrial settings, with certifications focused on crane safety. Both roles are essential in port and shipping industries but differ mainly in environment and specific skills.

What jobs are there on a tug?

Jobs on a tugboat include deckhand, mate, engineer, and captain. These roles involve operating and maintaining the vessel, navigating waterways, and ensuring safety during towing operations. Certifications such as STCW and experience in maritime environments are often required.

What does a tug do?

Tugboat operators are primarily responsible for maneuvering large vessels, such as ships and barges, safely in and out of harbors, docks, and through narrow waterways. A typical day involves monitoring weather and water conditions, maintaining communication with port authorities, pilots, and ship captains, and ensuring the tug and its equipment are in good working order. Tugboat operators work closely with deckhands and engineers on board, as well as with external crews, to coordinate towing, docking, and undocking procedures. This role requires strong teamwork, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to respond quickly to changing situations.

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

To thrive as a Tugboat Operator, you need a strong understanding of maritime navigation, vessel handling, and safety procedures, usually supported by a relevant license such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Familiarity with marine communication systems, towing equipment, and GPS navigation technology is essential. Excellent teamwork, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe and efficient maneuvering of vessels, protecting crew, cargo, and the environment in busy port and harbor operations.
Infographic showing various Tug job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 10% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,019 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Marine Structural Welder / Fitter

AAA USA

Mobile, AL • On-site

$42 - $50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Must be willing to travel/temporarily relocate to Portland, OR.
Why Skilled Trades Professionals Choose AAA USA:
  • Competitive Pay.
  • Overtime Opportunities.
  • Long-Term Assignments.
  • Multiple U.S. Locations.
  • Relocation Assistance Available.
  • Referral Programs.
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Benefits.
  • 401(k) with Company Match.
  • Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays.

Position Summary:
AAA United States, Inc. has partnered with a company in Portland, Oregon that is the premiere West Coast shipyard for building large Jones Act compliant articulated tug barges, deck barges, dump scows, oil spill recovery vessels, crane barges hopper barges and more. 

Essential Functions:
  • Tack and fit steel components together in preparation for final welding.
  • Set up and operate welding equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Perform production welding on heavy steel components.
  • Perform assembly and disassembly of steel components
  • Weld and fit in flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions.
  • Read blueprints and execute precise layout and fitting work.
  • Inspect completed welds to ensure top-quality workmanship and specification compliance.
  • Remove slag and finish welds with attention to detail.
  • Troubleshoot minor welding equipment issues as needed.
  • Work safely and follow all company safety standards and procedures.
  • Collaborate with a hardworking team committed to quality and continuous improvement.

Requirements:
  • Ability to weld structural steel and become certified using 1/16” flux core wire in all positions on unlimited thickness plate.
  • Ability to pass weld tests including:
    • Fillet welds on 1" plate (2G, 3G, and 4G).
    • Groove welds on 1" plate (2G, 3G, and 4G).
  • Strong math and measurement skills, including fractions and tape measure reading.
  • Ability to operate a hand-cutting torch efficiently and produce quality cuts.
  • Blueprint reading and steel layout experience.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
  • AWS D1.1 / D1.5.
  • Strong safety mindset and commitment to safe work practices.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Desire to learn, improve, and build new skills continuously.


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About AAA USA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Strategic planning consulting services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Mobile, AL, US

Year founded

2013