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Tug Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Crowley Maritime Corporation

Dispatcher, Tug

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

Overview Who We Are: As a privately held, U.S.-owned and operated company, Crowley provides services to 36 nations and island territories. Our purpose is to bravely advance what's possible to elevate ...

New York State

Tug Captain

Waterford, NY

$27.73 - $38.29/hr

Duties Description - Directs the movement and placement of derrick boats, dredges, scows, and other water-based equipment in connection with canal maintenance operations. Maintains records related to ...

Andrie Crew

Tug Mate

Muskegon, MI · On-site

Description: Role and Responsibilities Role Specific Responsibilities · Navigates vessel as directed by Master in a safe and efficient manner · Performs in a professional manner all aspects of ...

osg

TUG ASSISTANT ENGINEER

Tampa, FL

The Assistant Engineer's duties include but are not limited to the following: · Operating the engine room properly during his/her watch as directed by the Chief Engineer. · Comply with the Company ...

G&H Towing

OpCen Watchstander / Dispatcher

Deer Park, TX · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Coordinates tug availability with all departments and duty personnel when direct access to the tug by departmental personnel is necessary * Identifies any potential tug shortages as rapidly as ...

T. Parker Host

Push Boat Captain

Braithwaite, LA · On-site

Tug Deckhands and any other on-board crew Location: United Bulk Terminals, Davant In 2019, T. Parker Host acquired United Bulk Terminals (UBT) on Mile 55 of the Mississippi River as one of the ...

T. Parker Host

Tug Deckhands and any other on-board crew Location: United Bulk Terminals, Davant In 2019, T. Parker Host acquired United Bulk Terminals (UBT) on Mile 55 of the Mississippi River as one of the ...

T. Parker Host

Tug Deckhands and any other on-board crew Location: United Bulk Terminals, Davant In 2019, T. Parker Host acquired United Bulk Terminals (UBT) on Mile 55 of the Mississippi River as one of the ...

CNIC Careers

MOTOR VESSEL CAPTAIN

Everett, WA

$35.90/hr

... on a tug; 4) Performing tug make-up, line handling, towing, docking, undocking, anchoring, and mooring of a tug Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of ...

T. Parker Host

Handle lines on barge/tug and dock when required * Perform general cleaning of Tug as directed by Captain or Port Captain * Perform general and preventative maintenance of tug machinery as directed ...

T. Parker Host

Deckhand

Braithwaite, LA

Handle lines on barge/tug and dock when required * Perform general cleaning of Tug as directed by Captain or Port Captain * Perform general and preventative maintenance of tug machinery as directed ...

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Tug information

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$7

$21

$48

How much do tug jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug in the United States is $21.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $25.72 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.

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.
More about Tug jobs
What cities are hiring for Tug jobs? Cities with the most Tug job openings:
What states have the most Tug jobs? States with the most job openings for Tug jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Tug jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Tug jobs are:
Tug jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tug job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,153 per year, or $21.2 per hour.
Dispatcher, Tug

Dispatcher, Tug

Crowley Maritime Corporation

Seattle, WA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Overview

Who We Are:

As a privately held, U.S.-owned and operated company, Crowley provides services to 36 nations and island territories. Our purpose is to bravely advance what's possible to elevate people and planet, with our core values of Integrity, Sustainability and Drive guiding everything we do.

By expanding and innovating our services, we have expanded our footprint in services within the Logistics, Land Transportation, Shipping, Wind and Fuel industries. Crowley and its affiliated companies have generated more than $3.5 billion in annual revenue through our people's focus on excellence and a culture that values everyone's voices and collaboration. 

To continue laying the groundwork and challenge what's possible for our business, we seek to partner with individuals ready to elevate their careers with us.

Work Arrangement:

Hybrid


Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

Responsible for responding to customer and intra-company requests for ship assist and/or escort services.


Qualifications

Education & Credentials:

High school diploma or equivalent, with course work after high school and job-related training or Associate's degree.

Experience:

2 - 3 years of experience in a clerical or customer service position.

Technical Skills:

Proficient in Microsoft Office products, including Excel, Outlook and Word.

What We Offer? 

We inspire top talent by offering a comprehensive and competitive package that supports the diverse needs of our people—on land, at sea, in offices, and remotely.

Our Total Rewards include:

  • Competitive pay with recognition programs 
  • Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability coverage, and paid vacation and holidays
  • Leave and family support: parental leave and sick leave
  • Learning and growth: access to training and development for continuous skill development
  • Well-being resources: Employee Assistance Program, wellness program, and gym membership discounts

At Crowley, we invest in you—your success, your health, and your future.

Qualifications:

Education & Credentials:

High school diploma or equivalent, with course work after high school and job-related training or Associate's degree.

Experience:

2 - 3 years of experience in a clerical or customer service position.

Technical Skills:

Proficient in Microsoft Office products, including Excel, Outlook and Word.

What We Offer? 

We inspire top talent by offering a comprehensive and competitive package that supports the diverse needs of our people—on land, at sea, in offices, and remotely.

Our Total Rewards include:

  • Competitive pay with recognition programs 
  • Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability coverage, and paid vacation and holidays
  • Leave and family support: parental leave and sick leave
  • Learning and growth: access to training and development for continuous skill development
  • Well-being resources: Employee Assistance Program, wellness program, and gym membership discounts

At Crowley, we invest in you—your success, your health, and your future.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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