ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Tugboat Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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

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

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 ...

41 North Offshore, LLC

Tugboat Captain

New Bedford, MA · On-site

As a Captain with 41 North Offshore, you are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of a tugboat and its crew during towing, docking, ship assist, and marine transportation operations. The ...

Robbins Maritime Inc

Tugboat Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$725/day

If you are a dedicated and an experienced Tugboat Captain looking to join a dynamic team, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your application on our website using the following link ...

Robbins Maritime Inc

Tugboat Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$725/day

If you are a dedicated and an experienced Tugboat Captain looking to join a dynamic team, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your application on our website using the following link ...

Robbins Maritime Inc

Tugboat Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$725/day

If you are a dedicated and an experienced Tugboat Captain looking to join a dynamic team, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your application on our website using the following link ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTugboat Captain Jobs

Tugboat Captain information

See salary details

$19K

$104.2K

$181.5K

How much do tugboat captain jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for tugboat captain 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tugboat Captain, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tugboat Captain, you need advanced knowledge of navigation, seamanship, and maritime regulations, typically supported by a valid captain's license and extensive on-the-water experience. Familiarity with tugboat-specific equipment, radar systems, and electronic navigation tools is essential. Strong leadership, clear communication, and decision-making abilities are crucial for coordinating crew and responding to emergencies. These skills and qualities ensure the safe, efficient maneuvering of vessels in challenging environments and compliance with maritime safety standards.

What are Tugboat Captains?

Tugboat Captains are licensed maritime professionals responsible for operating tugboats, which are specialized vessels used to maneuver larger ships in harbors, rivers, and other confined waters. Their duties include safely towing or pushing ships, assisting with docking and undocking, navigating challenging waterways, and ensuring the safety of crew and cargo. Tugboat Captains must possess strong navigational skills, knowledge of maritime regulations, and leadership abilities to manage their crew and respond to emergencies on the water.

What are some common challenges Tugboat Captains face when coordinating with large vessel crews and port authorities?

Tugboat Captains often encounter challenges when communicating and coordinating with the crews of large vessels and port authorities, especially in busy or congested harbors. Differences in communication protocols, language barriers, and rapidly changing weather or tidal conditions can make precise maneuvering difficult. Successful Tugboat Captains rely on clear, timely communication, strong teamwork, and adaptability to ensure safe and efficient operations. Building good relationships with harbor pilots and understanding local port procedures can greatly ease these challenges.

What is the difference between Tugboat Captain vs Marine Pilot?

AspectTugboat CaptainMarine Pilot
CertificationsSTCW certification, TWIC card, maritime licensesSTCW certification, maritime pilot license
Work EnvironmentOn tugboats, near ports, harbors, and inland waterwaysOn ships, navigating through ports and coastal waters
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, port authoritiesShipping lines, port authorities, maritime agencies
Primary RoleOperate tugboats to assist larger vesselsGuide ships safely through port and harbor areas

While both roles involve maritime navigation and require similar certifications, a Tugboat Captain primarily operates tugboats to assist larger ships, especially in port areas. A Marine Pilot, on the other hand, guides ships through challenging waters and port entrances. Both are essential for safe maritime operations but differ in their specific responsibilities and work environments.

What Does a Tugboat Captain Do?

A tugboat captain, also known as a tug captain or tugboat operator, is the pilot of a small vessel that helps larger crafts steer in tight spaces where their engines cannot safely reach full power. Tugboats can be used to guide a boat out of a port or harbor, maneuver a barge in a river, or help a ship in the open sea if their engines are down. As a tugboat captain, you hire and train the crew of your boat, oversee the boat’s operations, communicate with other vessels, and ensure that all functions are proceeding as they should. Qualifications to become a tugboat captain or tugboat operator include maritime training and licensure.

More about Tugboat Captain jobs
What cities are hiring for Tugboat Captain jobs? Cities with the most Tugboat Captain job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tugboat Captain jobs? The most popular types of Tugboat Captain jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Tugboat Captain jobs? The top employers for Tugboat Captain jobs are:
What states have the most Tugboat Captain jobs? States with the most job openings for Tugboat Captain jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Tugboat Captain jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Tugboat Captain jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Tugboat Captain jobs? For Tugboat Captain jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Tugboat Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tugboat Captain job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,157 per year, or $50.1 per hour.
Tugboat Captain

Tugboat Captain

Beyel Brothers

Merritt Island, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Salary:

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 humility, drive, and social smarts, attracting talented individuals to join our team. With a focus on safety, efficiency, and client satisfaction, we strive to set industry standards and build lasting relationships. Join us in a dynamic environment where every team member has the opportunity to thrive and make a difference.

We are currently seeking an experienced Tugboat Captain with a Master of Towing endorsement.

Responsibilities:

  • Ensure safe and efficient navigation of the vessel.
  • Maintain a safe working environment throughout vessel operations.
  • Ensure crew members are provided with information to adhere to Maritime Regulations.
  • Direct crew in recordkeeping.
  • Supervise crewmembers in their onboard duties.
  • Open communication with Port Captain and management.

Rotation:

  • 28 days on duty , 14 days off

Credentials/Requirements:

  • Merchant Mariner 200 Ton Master upon Oceans with a Master of Towing Endorsement.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • US Passport

Benefits:

  • Competitive pay commensurate with experience.
  • Comprehensive benefits package available, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan available with employer match.
  • Opportunities for professional development and future advancement within the company

Beyel Brothers Inc. is proud to be a EEO/AA Employer