ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Tug Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HOLDEN MARINE TOWING INC

Be Seen First

Licensed Tug Operator

Callahan, FL · On-site

$48.48/hr

Captain (Union) * Directs and is responsible for the management, navigation, and safety of the crew, vessel and tow. * Ensures all operations comply with state, federal, and maritime regulatory ...

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 ...

HOLDEN MARINE TOWING INC

Be Seen First

Licensed Tug Operator

Callahan, FL · On-site

$48.48/hr

Captain (Union) * Directs and is responsible for the management, navigation, and safety of the crew, vessel and tow. * Ensures all operations comply with state, federal, and maritime regulatory ...

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 ...

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

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 ...

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 ...

A&E Paper Company

Machine Room Laborer

Tyrone, PA · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

Complete daily tug inspection ensuring the equipment is in working order and charging as needed. * Keep machine room and basement areas clean by sweeping, hosing, and removing scrap paper.

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsTug Jobs

Tug information

See salary details

$7

$21

$48

How much do tug jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 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 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.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 13% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,153 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

TUG ASSISTANT ENGINEER

OSG Ship Management, Inc.

Tampa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

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's MS requirements related to the position.
• Performing the operations, maintenance and housekeeping functions as delegated by the Chief Engineer, the Assistant shall know these duties thoroughly so he/she can perform them without reminder.
• Consulting with the Chief Engineer when questions arise about operations or in cases where the Chief has directed him/her to do so.
• Performing the duties of seaman as directed by the Watch Officer.
• Directing work of seaman assigned to assist in engine spaces.
• Maintaining proper logs during watch.

Apply