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Tugboat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Next Gen Logistics

Tugboat Captain

Lake Charles, LA · Remote

Tugboat Captain YOUR COMPASS TO SUCCESS Your New Company: At NGL Companies we are committed to workplace safety.We are a trusted maritime transportation, construction and logistics company providing ...

Next Gen Logistics

Tugboat Captain

New Orleans, LA · Remote

Tugboat Captain YOUR COMPASS TO SUCCESS Your New Company: At NGL Companies we are committed to workplace safety.We are a trusted maritime transportation, construction and logistics company providing ...

Next Gen Logistics

Tugboat Captain

Cocodrie, LA · Remote

Tugboat Captain YOUR COMPASS TO SUCCESS Your New Company: At NGL Companies we are committed to workplace safety.We are a trusted maritime transportation, construction and logistics company providing ...

Beyel Brothers

Tugboat Captain

Merritt Island, FL · On-site

TUGBOAT CAPTAIN OCEANS W/MASTER OF TOWING ENDORSEMENT At Beyel Brothers, were dedicated to excellence in crane operations, rigging, heavy haulage, and marine transport. Our mission is to lead with ...

McMillen Inc.

Tugboat Captain

Barling, AR · On-site

Tugboat Captain McMillen, Inc. is seeking a Tugboat Captain for a project in Barling, AR. All Construction Division offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background ...

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Tugboat information

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$19K

$104.2K

$181.5K

How much do tugboat jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for tugboat in the United States is $104,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $128,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Tugboat job?

A tugboat job involves operating or assisting in the operation of tugboats, which are small but powerful vessels used to maneuver larger ships in harbors, rivers, and other confined waters. Crew members may work as captains, deckhands, or engineers, ensuring safe navigation, towing, and docking operations. Responsibilities vary but often include maintaining the vessel, securing tow lines, and assisting with navigation. Tugboat jobs require physical fitness, maritime training, and certifications, depending on the role.

Is working on a tugboat worth it?

Working as a tugboat operator can be rewarding for those interested in maritime work, offering opportunities for hands-on navigation and vessel handling. The job often requires certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential and involves working in challenging environments with irregular hours. Compensation varies based on experience and location, but it can provide a stable career in the maritime industry.

What boat job pays the most?

The highest-paying boat jobs typically include offshore oil rig workers, marine captains, and specialized engineers, with salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually. These roles require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and often involve working in challenging environments such as deep-sea or industrial settings.

What qualifications do you need to work on a tugboat?

To work on a tugboat, individuals typically need a valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) issued by the Coast Guard, which requires relevant maritime experience, a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), and completion of safety training such as STCW courses. Additionally, positions often require a minimum age of 18 and physical fitness to handle demanding conditions at sea.

What does a typical day look like for a tugboat operator and what kinds of vessels or assignments might they encounter?

A typical day for a tugboat operator involves assisting ships in docking and undocking, towing barges or other vessels, and navigating busy harbors under various weather and sea conditions. You might operate in coastal ports, rivers, or busy shipping lanes, interacting closely with harbor pilots and other maritime professionals to coordinate safe maneuvers. Assignments can vary, from moving massive container ships to transporting materials along inland waterways, each with its own set of challenges and responsibilities. Tugboat operators often work in rotating shifts, including nights and weekends, and the work environment requires constant vigilance and quick decision-making. This dynamic role offers exposure to different types of vessels and situations, contributing to valuable experience and potential advancement into senior marine positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Tugboat position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tugboat Operator, you generally need strong navigational skills, mechanical aptitude, and a valid merchant mariner credential such as a U.S. Coast Guard license. Experience with marine communication equipment, towing winches, and vessel maneuvering systems is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and adaptability are key soft skills, especially when working in changing weather or port conditions. These skills ensure operational safety, efficient vessel handling, and effective coordination with harbor and ship crews.

How do you get a job on a tugboat?

To get a job on a tugboat, candidates typically need to obtain relevant maritime certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential and a TWIC card, along with experience in maritime or related fields. Entry-level positions often require physical fitness, good communication skills, and the ability to work in challenging environments; some roles may also require completing maritime training programs or apprenticeships.
More about Tugboat jobs
What cities are hiring for Tugboat jobs? Cities with the most Tugboat job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tugboat jobs? The most popular types of Tugboat jobs are:
What states have the most Tugboat jobs? States with the most job openings for Tugboat jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Tugboat jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Tugboat jobs are:
Tugboat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tugboat job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,157 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Tugboat Captain

Next Gen Logistics

Lake Charles, LA • Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Salary:

Tugboat Captain


YOUR COMPASS TO SUCCESS


Your New Company:


At NGL Companies we are committed to workplace safety.We are a trusted maritime transportation, construction and logistics company providing our services on both land and sea.


We are seeking qualified applicants who are focused on the safe operation and navigation of a 1200 HP Lugger tugboat vessel. The vessel isworking for our client in the locations of Cameron, La & Montegut, La. They are pushing one or two barges of rock to assist in coastal restoration on the Louisiana coast. Our basic rotation is 28/14. The tugboat captain will be responsible for managing the crew members and ensuring they are completing their required duties.


ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES:


  • Safe and efficient operation of the vessel and support equipment.
  • Implementing the safety and environmental policy of the Company, motivating the crew in the execution of that policy, issuing orders in a clear and concise manner and reviewing safety and pollution prevention activities.
  • Reporting defects to the Company and other matters with implications for safe operations or pollution risk and which require the assistance of the Company.
  • Appraising and coordinating on-board training requirements with the Company.
  • Ensuring that all safety information is kept in date and available to all members of the crew at all times.
  • Review of on-board contingency plans and ship procedures and reporting any deficiencies to the company.
  • Reporting non-conformities, accidents involving personnel or plant and hazardous situations to the Company.
  • Requesting assistance from the Company as may be deemed necessary to ensure safe and pollution-free operation of the ship.
  • Provide employee scheduling information to the crew.
  • Maintain the vessel budget and help maximize cost efficiency as directed
  • Complete required log entries and maintain radio watch as required
  • Give assignments and direction to the mate and/or lead deckhand


QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:


  • The minimum qualifications and experience required are:
  • Must have experience as a U.S.C.G. MOTV licensed Captain with towing and endorsements for Western Rivers, Oceans, and/or Near Coastal waters
  • Must have a valid TWIC (receipts NOT accepted)
  • Must have a valid DL
  • Must be able to work in all types of weather conditions
  • Must be able to carry, push/pull and/or lift materials weighing upwards of 75lbs
  • Maintain the vessel budget and help maximize cost efficiency as directed
  • Complete required log entries and maintain radio watch as required
  • Give assignments and direction to the mate and/or lead deckhand
  • Ability to meet USCG physical examination requirements


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:


  • The Tugboat Captain must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable workplace accommodation.
  • The individual must also be able to wear and properly utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to work or visit within areas where it is required.
  • Walking, stepping, climbing, or otherwise moving from one location on the job site to another, which may be of varying heights and access parameters.


What you will get in return:


  • Opportunity to grow with an industry leader
  • Great benefits plan (Medical, Dental, Vision)
  • 401K with match


COMPETITIVE SALARY COMMENSURATE WITH EXPERIENCE AVAILABLE TO QUALIFIED CANDIDATES. EMPLOYMENT OFFERS ARE CONTINGENT UPON A REVIEW OF REFERENCES, SATISFACTORY COMPLETION OF A DRUG SCREEN, AND ANALYSIS OF FULL BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS.


Next Generation Logistics is an equal-opportunity employer. Next Generation Logistics does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business need