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Tug Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Moran Towing Corporation

Deckhand

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Working on deck, including ship docking and tug mooring operations. * Conducting engine room rounds as required. * Being thoroughly familiar with vessel's equipment. * Carrying out vessel and ...

Moran Towing Corporation

Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Maritime experience working aboard a harbor assist tug. * Excellent communication skills. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: * Work safely in a marine setting. * Walk, sit, or stand for extended periods of time.

TBA

School Nutrition Worker 5-Hour Worker

Martinsville, VA · On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

Using upper extremities to exert force in order to draw, haul or tug objects in a sustained motion. * Grasping: Applying pressure to an object with the fingers and palm. * Handling: Picking, holding ...

Wlu

Part-Time Public Safety Officer

Lexington, VA · On-site

$19/hr

Pulling: Using the upper extremities to exert force to draw, drag, haul, or tug objects in a sustained motion. * Lifting: Raising objects from a lower to a higher position or moving objects ...

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Tug information

See Virginia salary details

$7

$21

$48

How much do tug jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 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 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Tug jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Tug job openings:

Tug jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tug job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 10% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,774 per year, or $21 per hour.

Deckhand

Moran Towing Corporation

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Moran Towing rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description
Moran Towing Corporation (www.morantug.com) has an opportunity available for a Deckhand, for Moran Norfolk. This is a full-time position.
Moran Towing Corporation is one of the oldest companies in America and has prospered by continuously reinventing itself for over 160 years. Starting in 1860 as a tugboat company, we have grown from those roots to become a dominant provider of commercial ship docking services, marine transportation, LNG support operations, environmental recovery, and commercial diving services. While economies, cultures, markets, and technology will always continue to evolve, our steadfast commitment to partnering with our employees and customers to solve our customers' marine requirements has enabled us to stay the course year after year.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Deckhand reports to the Captain and Mate as appropriate.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Carrying out all lawful orders.
  • Reporting unsafe situations or opportunities for improvement.
  • Performing duties safely and efficiently.
  • Acting as lookout as required.
  • Working on deck, including ship docking and tug mooring operations.
  • Conducting engine room rounds as required.
  • Being thoroughly familiar with vessel's equipment.
  • Carrying out vessel and equipment cleaning, maintenance duties.
  • Other duties as designated by the Captain or his/her designee.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC), or, if the applicable waterway is exempt from MMD requirements for mariners, the applicant must apply for a MMC within 60 days of their start date.
  • Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • STCW certification (if required for service).
  • USCG 719k Physical examination meeting Merchant Mariner Medical certification.
  • Pre-Employment Drug Screening.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Maritime experience working aboard a vessel.
  • Excellent communication skills.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Position requires the ability to:
  • Work safely in a marine setting.
  • Walk, sit, or stand for extended periods of time.
  • Frequently reach with hands and arms.
  • Frequently crouch or stoop.
  • Climb/descend stairs and ladders.
  • Occasionally lift and/or carry up to 60 lbs.
  • Occasionally enter and work in enclosed spaces.
  • Withstand exposure to environmental conditions such as heat, rain, cold and or/humidity.

IN RETURN, WE OFFER:
  • Competitive compensation
  • Career development opportunities
  • Team-oriented work environment
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Health Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Company paid Life, AD&D, and Long-Term Disability Insurance Plans
  • Employee Assistance, Health Advocate, and Wellness Programs
  • Generous 401(k) Plan with employer non-elective, matching, and discretionary contributions
  • Company paid Financial Advice Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program

PAY TRANSPARENCY:
Moran Towing Corporation offers generous benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and competitive salaries based on geographic location. Our target pay range for the Deckhand position is $22.00 - $24.00 per hour. This pay range represents Moran's commitment to pay transparency and is a reasonable estimate of possible compensation for this role at the time of posting. The final salary for this role will be determined based on careful consideration of a variety of factors, such as the candidate's exact location, experience, and expertise related to the qualifications.
Moran Towing Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, or other legally protected status.

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