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Tug Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MILLERS TUG AND BARGE INC.

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Port Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Job Summary Miller's Tug and Barge is seeking an experienced Port Engineer to oversee the maintenance, repair, and operational readiness of our fleet. This position ensures compliance with regulatory ...

Andrie LLC

Tug Mate

Job Type Full-time Description Role and Responsibilities Role Specific Responsibilities • Navigates vessel as directed by Master in a safe and efficient manner • Performs in a professional manner ...

MILLERS TUG AND BARGE INC.

Be Seen First

Port Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Job Summary Miller's Tug and Barge is seeking an experienced Port Engineer to oversee the maintenance, repair, and operational readiness of our fleet. This position ensures compliance with regulatory ...

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 · On-site

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 ...

T. Parker Host

Push Boat Captain

Braithwaite, LA

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 ...

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All JobsTug Jobs

Tug information

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$7

$21

$48

How much do tug jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 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 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.

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 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.

How much money do you make working on a tugboat?

Tugboat captains and crew members typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and vessel size. Entry-level positions may start around $40,000, while experienced captains can earn higher salaries, especially with overtime and certifications such as STCW. The job often involves shift work and safety training.

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.

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
Linehaul Tug Boat Deckhand

Linehaul Tug Boat Deckhand

Vulcan Materials Company

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$250 - $400/day

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago

Vulcan Materials rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

300th of 515 rated manufacturers

Job description

$1,000 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 .
What You'll Do:
Promote Safety. Always take an active role in prioritizing safety per OSHA, MSHA, and Vulcan standards throughout the tug boats, barges, and plants for yourself and others.
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.
Additional Responsibilities. Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Skills You'll Need :
Certifications. A valid Merchant Mariner Credential is required. Applicants without a valid Merchant Mariner Credential will not be considered.
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.
Mechanical Skills. Must have some knowledge of industrial tools, their uses, and maintenance.
What You'll Like About Us :
Hourly Range: the pay range for this role is between $250.00 - $400.00 per day. This role will work a 2-week-on, 2-week-off rotation. This range 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. We are an 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, which impacts daily lives-and every employee contributes.Our aggregates are used to build roads, schools, hospitals, airports, and housing throughout the United States .
Health Benefits. Medical, Dental, and 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 critical to our business.
Vulcan Materials Company is committed to employing a diverse workforce. You will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability. You also have the right to be free from discrimination for medical needs arising from pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.
NOTICE TO TEMPORARY STAFFING AGENCIES, PLACEMENT SERVICES, AND PROFESSIONAL RECRUITERS: Vulcan Materials Company has an internal recruiting department. Please review our policy regarding using temporary staffing agencies, placement services, and professional recruiters.

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