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Tug Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TUG

Senior C++ Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Required Technology Unlimited Group (TUG) is seeking a highly motivated Senior C++ Software Engineer to support the development and integration of Command, Control, Communications, Computers and ...

TUG

HR Manager/Generalist

San Diego, CA · On-site

Required Technology Unlimited Group (TUG) is seeking a Human Resources Manager/Generalist to assist in the development and implementation of Human Resource strategy and programs; including corporate ...

Foss Maritime

Senior Deckhand (NorCal)

Oakland, CA

Fuel tug. Complete barge reports, engine room logs. * Paint inside and outside of tug on an on-going basis. Cook meals for crew members and prepare grocery orders and supply requisitions. Check ...

Foss Maritime

Senior Deckhand (LA/LB)

Wilmington, CA · On-site

Fuel tug. Complete barge reports, engine room logs. * Paint inside and outside of tug on an on-going basis. Cook meals for crew members and prepare grocery orders and supply requisitions. Check ...

AmNav Maritime

Senior Deckhand (NorCal)

Oakland, CA

Fuel tug. Complete barge reports, engine room logs. * Paint inside and outside of tug on an on-going basis. Cook meals for crew members and prepare grocery orders and supply requisitions. Check ...

AmNav Maritime

Senior Deckhand (NorCal)

Oakland, CA · On-site

Fuel tug. Complete barge reports, engine room logs. * Paint inside and outside of tug on an on-going basis. Cook meals for crew members and prepare grocery orders and supply requisitions. Check ...

AmNav Maritime

Senior Deckhand (LA/LB)

Wilmington, CA · On-site

Fuel tug. Complete barge reports, engine room logs. * Paint inside and outside of tug on an on-going basis. Cook meals for crew members and prepare grocery orders and supply requisitions. Check ...

CAPITAL LUMBER COMPANY

Yard Assistant I

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$20/hr

May operate a gas powered tug to move lumber products * Package materials and keep packaging area clean and organized * Assist in keeping all lanes and other areas clean and clear for traffic * May ...

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 ...

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Tug information

See California salary details

$7

$20

$48

How much do tug jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug in California is $20.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $25.38 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.

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.

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.

How to get hired on a tugboat?

To get hired as a tugboat crew member, candidates typically need relevant maritime experience, a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), and certifications such as Basic Safety Training and Marine Radio Operator Permit. Employers often require physical fitness, good communication skills, and the ability to work in a team environment, with job opportunities available through maritime unions, shipping companies, or specialized job boards.

What jobs are there on a tugboat?

Jobs on a tugboat include deckhand, engineer, captain, and mate, each requiring specific skills and certifications. Deckhands assist with towing operations and vessel maintenance, while engineers handle engine and mechanical systems. These roles demand safety training, maritime certifications, and familiarity with navigation and communication tools.

What are popular job titles related to Tug jobs in California?

For Tug jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tug jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Tug jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Tug jobs?

Cities in California with the most Tug job openings:

Tug jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tug job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 10% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,574 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Senior C++ Software Engineer

TUG

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Senior C++ Software Engineer

Location: San Diego, CA

Job Type: On-Site

US Citizenship: Required

Job Description:

Technology Unlimited Group (TUG) is seeking a highly motivated Senior C++ Software Engineer to support the development and integration of Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (C4I) Systems. The position will be at the TUG office in San Diego, CA and/or customer sites in San Diego. We are seeking engineers to add to our team to perform the full range of duties including software development, integration, and testing.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

  • Minimum of 3 years' experience in C++ version 11 or greater, within the last 5 years.
  • 5-10 years' Software Development experience using C++.
  • Develop and expand features and products using C++ version 11 or greater.
  • Experience with Agile SW Development.
  • Able to write well-designed, testable, efficient code and associated documentation.
  • Debug, test, and fix errors.
  • Document code development and revisions.
  • Create and use software tools to help automate writing code.
  • Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Proficiency in oral communications skills.
  • Ability to work with and communicate with project team members and customer representatives.
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in the area of Computer Science, Computer Engineering or a related Science discipline.
  • Eligible for a Government Security Clearance.
  • Must pass Pre-Employment Drug Test.

Desired Skills and Qualifications:

In addition to the required skills, the ideal candidate may have one or more of the following:

  • Familiarity with Continuous Integration / Continuous Delivery (CI/CD) and desire to learn.
  • Eagerness to learn and continuously improve.
  • Possess an Active Government Security Clearance.

Technology Unlimited Group 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.

Company Description

Technology Unlimited Group (TUG) is a provider of high quality, cost-effective system engineering and software development services. Our technical team covers all aspects of systems and software engineering support services, including the specification, development and certification of systems, software, and surveillance-related applications as well as System Administration, Cybersecurity and Testing. We are a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) and a Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB).