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Tug Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

LineHaul Tug Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$650 - $750/day

Must have previous experience operating a tug boat in rivers and/or bays with multiple barges (Preferred). Must also have Experience navigating shallow waters and maneuvering a tug with a tow through ...

LineHaul Tug Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$650 - $750/day

Must have previous experience operating a tug boat in rivers and/or bays with multiple barges (Preferred). Must also have Experience navigating shallow waters and maneuvering a tug with a tow through ...

Captain Elliott Westall joined the McAllister family in 1997 after a distinguished 20-year career in the US Navy where he served primarily as Tug Captain and Harbor Pilot. Captain Westall was named ...

Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Captain Elliott Westall joined the McAllister family in 1997 after a distinguished 20-year career in the US Navy where he served primarily as Tug Captain and Harbor Pilot. Captain Westall was named ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA

$23.25 - $30/hr

Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA

$23.25 - $30/hr

Move barges and derricks with tug boats and yard boats. * Works in engine rooms, boiler rooms, aloft or in confined spaces as required. * Thorough knowledge of shackles, natural, synthetic and wire ...

Captain Elliott Westall joined the McAllister family in 1997 after a distinguished 20-year career in the US Navy where he served primarily as Tug Captain and Harbor Pilot. Captain Westall was named ...

National Recruiter

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$40K - $45K/yr

Serve autonomously as a point of contact for all traditional undergraduate (TUG) related recruiting and admissions events and processes and exercise discretion and sound judgment regularly as a ...

Captain Elliott Westall joined the McAllister family in 1997 after a distinguished 20-year career in the US Navy where he served primarily as Tug Captain and Harbor Pilot. Captain Westall was named ...

Tugboat Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$600 - $675/day

About us Robbins Maritime, Inc. is a leading tug and barge company, established in 1986 and headquartered in Norfolk, VA. We specialize in providing reliable and efficient maritime support services ...

Tugboat Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$600 - $675/day

About us Robbins Maritime, Inc. is a leading tug and barge company, established in 1986 and headquartered in Norfolk, VA. We specialize in providing reliable and efficient maritime support services ...

Tugboat Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$600 - $675/day

Vision insurance * 401(k) matching About us Robbins Maritime, Inc. is a leading tug and barge company, established in 1986 and headquartered in Norfolk, VA. We specialize in providing reliable and ...

Tugboat Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$725/day

About us Robbins Maritime, Inc. is a leading tug and barge company, established in 1986 and headquartered in Norfolk, VA. We specialize in providing reliable and efficient maritime support services ...

Tugboat Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$725/day

Vision insurance * 401(k) matching About us Robbins Maritime, Inc. is a leading tug and barge company, established in 1986 and headquartered in Norfolk, VA. We specialize in providing reliable and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Tug information

See Virginia salary details

$7

$21

$48

How much do tug jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug in Virginia is $21.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are tugs?

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 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 do you get a job on a tugboat?

To work as a tugboat crew member, you typically need relevant maritime certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential and a TWIC card, along with experience in boat handling and safety procedures. Entry-level positions often require a maritime training program or apprenticeship, and physical fitness is essential due to the demanding environment. Gaining experience on smaller vessels can improve chances of employment on larger tugboats.

How much do you get paid working on a tug boat?

Tugboat captains and crew members typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, certification, and the region. Entry-level positions may start around $40,000, while experienced captains can earn higher salaries, especially with overtime and specialized skills.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a tugboat operator and how do they interact with other maritime professionals?

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 Tugboat Operator, and why are they important?

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.

How to become a tug operator?

To become a tug operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with maritime or marine certification such as a Marine Deck Officer license or a Towboat Certification. Experience operating boats or heavy machinery is often required, and training is provided on the specific vessels and safety procedures used in the industry.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Jobs that can pay around $4,000 a week without requiring a degree include commercial fishing, certain skilled trades like plumbing or electrical work, and some sales positions such as real estate or high-ticket sales. These roles often require specialized skills, experience, or licensing, and may involve physically demanding or high-pressure environments.
What are popular job titles related to Tug jobs in Virginia? For Tug jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Tug jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Tug job openings:
Infographic showing various Tug job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,774 per year, or $21 per hour.

$650 - $750/day

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


Vulcan Materials rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

292nd of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description


$1,500 Sign-On Bonus
$1,500 Employee Referral Bonus Eligible
Build Your Career. Build America's Future.
Vulcan Materials Company is the nation's largest producer of construction aggregates and a major producer of aggregates-based construction materials including asphalt and ready-mixed concrete. When you join Vulcan, it's more than starting an exciting career - you get to make a difference for millions of people every day across the country.
When you join Vulcan, you join a dynamic culture in which career development is encouraged, excellence is rewarded, and diversity is valued. No matter the role or the location across the country, every member of the Vulcan team lives through the Vulcan Way: doing the right thing, the right way, at the right time.
We're Coming Back Together To Be Together
100% In Office & Onsite
At Vulcan Materials, we believe that the heart of our success lies in the strength of our engagement, our connection, and our commitment to developing our people. We are excited to restore the collaborative in-person environment that fuels our innovation and growth. This move is not just about being physically present; it's about reigniting the spirit that comes from face-to-face interactions, fostering a collaborative, inclusive culture where every voice is heard and everyone thrives.
What You'll Do:
Champion Safety. Take an active role in prioritizing safety throughout the operation for yourself and others at all times in accordance with MSHA and Vulcan standards. Ensure vessel safety (navigational equipment, fire suppression, hull integrity, repair scheduling, safety training, and fire drills).
Oversee Crew Members. Oversee all crew member responsibilities and training. Manage and schedule deckhand daily and weekly duties. Coordinate vessel maintenance to be performed on board by the crew.
Build and Break Tows. Buildtows using cables and lines to assist others on the vessel in preparing barges for the loading, transporting, and discharging aggregate barges.
Lock and Dock. Assist coworkers with handling and assembling deck lines, rigging during tow building, and locking and docking activities.
Inspect Boat and Other Equipment. Perform daily inspections and maintenance of the vessel's interior and exterior to ensure safe working conditions.
Maintain Boat and Equipment. Perform scheduled preventative maintenance, including cleaning, scraping, painting, and changing all oil and filters throughout the vessel.
Monitor Inventory. Assist with and approve store inventory.
Ensure Compliance. Act in full compliance with company rules and policies as well as U.S.C.G mandates.
Additional Responsibilities. Other duties as assigned.
Responsibilities
Skills You'll Need:
Certifications. A valid Merchant Mariner Credential is required. Applicants without a valid Merchant Mariner Credential will not be considered. A 200-Ton Master Towing certification is also required.
Experience. Must have strong leadership and team management skills. Must have previous experience operating a tug boat in rivers and/or bays with multiple barges (Preferred). Must also have Experience navigating shallow waters and maneuvering a tug with a tow through bridges.
Flexibility. Must be willing to work overtime and extended hours depending on company demands. Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions while wearing protective equipment, including foul weather gear, life jackets, gloves, and boots.
Knowledge of Best Practices. Must have knowledge of general principles and practices regarding marine safety and operations.
Organizational Skills. Must have the ability to manage the vessel and crew in regard to upkeep and safety.
Regional Knowledge. Must have experience with and knowledge of the Chesapeake Bay and tributaries.
Problem Solving Skills. Must demonstrate the ability to solve problems regarding mechanical, crew, and weather issues.
Physical and Mechanical Skills. Must have the ability to work in physically demanding conditions.Must have some knowledge of industrial tools, their uses, and maintenance.
What You'll Like About Us:
Salary Range. The base salary for this role is $650 to $750 per day. This rate is not inclusive of our discretionary bonus or equity package. When determining a candidate's compensation, we consider a number of factors, including skillset, experience, job scope, and current market data.
Great Company Culture. Our people share a competitive drive for excellence in an environment of trust, teamwork, open-mindedness, and communication.
Safe. Industry leader in health and safety standards. We are committed to creating a safe work environment and protecting all employees and customers.
Meaningful Work. What sets us apart is the work we do impact daily lives - and every employee contributes.Our aggregates produced are used to build roads, schools, hospitals, airports, and housing throughout the United States.
Health Benefits. Medical, Dental, Vision programs, plus much more.
Rest and Relaxation. Paid holidays.
Prepare for the Future. 401(k) with company match and contribution.
Training and Development. We see our development programs and helping our employees meet their goals as a key part of our business.
Vulcan Materials Company is an equal opportunity employer.

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