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Tug Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

GARNEY A Tug Boat Operator position is available at Garney. As a Tug Boat Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of truckable tugboats to assist in the maneuvering ...

GARNEY A Tug Boat Operator position is available at Garney. As a Tug Boat Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of truckable tugboats to assist in the maneuvering ...

GARNEY A Tug Boat Operator position is available at Garney. As a Tug Boat Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of truckable tugboats to assist in the maneuvering ...

Tucked away in the heart of Georgia, the small town of Gordon offers a quaint and serene setting that could tug at the heartstrings of any family! Embrace the welcoming community and dive into the ...

Tucked away in the heart of Georgia, the small town of Gordon offers a quaint and serene setting that could tug at the heartstrings of any family! Embrace the welcoming community and dive into the ...

Tucked away in the heart of Georgia, the small town of Gordon offers a quaint and serene setting that could tug at the heartstrings of any family! Embrace the welcoming community and dive into the ...

CRNA In Calhoun, GA

Calhoun, GA · On-site

$250 - $300/hr

Tucked away in the heart of Georgia, the small town of Gordon offers a quaint and serene setting that could tug at the heartstrings of any family! Embrace the welcoming community and dive into the ...

Warehouse Mail Agent - Atlanta

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Drives motorized equipment (tug, forklift, etc.) to move a variety of conveyances to the appropriate location within the warehouse. * Retrieves and unloads mail distributing accordingly Read mail ...

Receiving Clerk

Dalton, GA · On-site

$14.25 - $16.75/hr

Occasionally uses upper extremities to exert force in order to draw, haul or tug objects in a sustained motion. Weight is usually less than 50 lbs. * Reaching: Extends hand(s) and arm(s) in any ...

Receiving Clerk

Dalton, GA · On-site

$14.25 - $16.75/hr

Occasionally uses upper extremities to exert force in order to draw, haul or tug objects in a sustained motion. Weight is usually less than 50 lbs. * Reaching: Extends hand(s) and arm(s) in any ...

Lineman

Cartersville, GA · On-site

$17/hr

Tug aircraft to organize ramp, pull in and out of hangars for customers and maintenance. * Provide excellent customer service by assisting all inbound/outbound customers and crews with baggage, rides ...

Retail Sales Associate

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$14.50 - $16.50/hr

Ability to lift, tug, and pull 25 IBS with or without accommodation. * High school diploma or equivalent, preferred * 1 year customer service and/or sales experience, preferred * Gets charged up by ...

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Tug information

See Georgia salary details

$6

$17

$41

How much do tug jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug in Georgia is $17.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.16 and $21.73 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.
What cities in Georgia are hiring for Tug jobs? Cities in Georgia with the most Tug job openings:
Infographic showing various Tug job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 11% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,282 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Garney Construction rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

GARNEY

Tug Boat Operator position is available at Garney. As a Tug Boat Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of truckable tugboats to assist in the maneuvering barges for marine construction operations. This role requires a deep understanding of marine navigation and safety protocols and excellent communication skills to collaborate effectively with barge crew members.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING
  • Operate and maneuver truckable tugboats to maneuver construction barges
  • Maintain constant communication with barge crew members
  • Perform regular checks and maintenance on tugboat systems, including engines, navigation equipment, and safety gear
  • Monitor weather conditions, tide schedules, and water currents to adjust operations accordingly
  • Ensure strict compliance with maritime safety regulations and environmental protection standards
  • Respond to emergency situations such as vessel breakdowns, grounding, or other maritime incidents, providing immediate assistance as needed
  • Assist in towing operations, which may include barges, platforms, or other floating equipment
  • Keep accurate logs of daily operations, fuel usage, and maintenance activities
  • Adhere to company policies, operational standards, and industry best practices to minimize risks and enhance operational efficiency
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
  • Strong knowledge of local maritime regulations, waterways, and port operations
  • Proficiency in the use of navigation and communication equipment such as radar, GPS, VHF radios, and sonar
  • Familiarity with mechanical and electrical systems related to marine engines and vessels
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm in high-pressure situations
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills to collaborate effectively with crew members and port personnel
LET'S TALK THE PERKS!
  • Free medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans ($0 premiums)
  • Virtual doctor visits with no co-pay
  • Shares of company stock at no cost starting your first day
  • 401(k) plan with a 3.5% match
  • Student loan resources
  • Weekly paychecks
  • Paid time off
  • 8 paid holidays
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with a lump sum and matching contributions
  • Free life insurance and disability policy
  • Free access to healthcare coordinators
  • Counseling sessions with mental health professionals at no cost
  • Access to consultations with legal and financial professionals at no cost
  • Free programs assisting with weight loss, maternity health, prescriptions for chronic conditions, and more
  • 50% employee discount in the Garney apparel store
CONTACT US

If you are interested in the Tug Boat Operator position, please clickAPPLY NOW to submit your application. To view additional opportunities with Garney, visitcareers.garney.com 

If you have questions or would like more information, please call Alondra Dominguez at (615) 266-6156  or by email alondra.dominguez@garney.com and include the job title and location to ensure a prompt response. Please complete an application if you are interested in the position. All openings listed are currently accepting candidates. 

Garney and its subsidiaries are committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and it is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all people without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other legally protected category. Garney is a background screening, drug-free workplace.

Agency Disclaimer:  All vendors must have a signed Garney Agreement, authorized by the Executive Team, to receive payment for any placement. Verbal or written commitments made by anyone other than a member of the Executive Team will not be considered binding.  Any unsolicited resumes sent to Garney or submitted to employees outside of the Recruiting Team will be deemed the property of Garney. In such cases, Garney will not be obligated to pay any placement fees.


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