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Tugboat Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sea Hawk Maritime

Tugboat Captain

Largo, FL · On-site

$650 - $725/day

Tugboat Captain Sea Hawk Maritime is looking for a Licensed Tugboat Captain - Operator. This is a great opportunity for an experienced Tugboat Captain who can operate and maintain a tug or push boat ...

Sea Hawk Maritime

Tugboat Captain

Largo, FL · On-site

$650 - $725/day

Tugboat Captain Sea Hawk Maritime is looking for a Licensed Tugboat Captain - Operator. This is a great opportunity for an experienced Tugboat Captain who can operate and maintain a tug or push boat ...

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 ...

Carver Companies Payroll LLC

NY · On-site

$68.83/hr

Tugboat Captain Full Time Management Coeymans, NY, US 2 days ago Requisition ID: 1072 Salary Range: $68.83 To $68.83 Hourly Position Summary: The Tugboat Captain is responsible for the safe ...

New

Integratedcooling

Tugboat Captain

New Orleans, LA · On-site

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 ...

Carver Companies Payroll LLC

Tugboat Captain

Coeymans, NY · On-site

$68.83/hr

The Tugboat Captain is responsible for the safe navigation, operation, and overall management of tugboat operations in support of harbor and marine transportation activities. This leadership role ...

Integratedcooling

Tugboat Captain

Cocodrie, LA · On-site

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 ...

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 ...

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Tugboat Captain information

See salary details

$19K

$104.2K

$181.5K

How much do tugboat captain jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 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 is a tugboat captain?

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 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.

What skills and qualifications do I need to be a successful tugboat captain?

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 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.

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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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,157 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Tugboat Captain

Largo, FL • On-site

Sea Hawk Maritime
See more jobs at Sea Hawk Maritimeexternal

$650 - $725/day

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate a tugboat to push and tow barges and dredges in marine construction or dredging environments.

  • Maintain vessel equipment, ensure vessel cleanliness, and prepare tools and equipment for crew members.

  • Complete daily maintenance logs, comply with safety regulations, and assist with boat and equipment maintenance.

Job description

Tugboat Captain Sea Hawk Maritime is looking for a Licensed Tugboat Captain - Operator. This is a great opportunity for an experienced Tugboat Captain who can operate and maintain a tug or push boat in a marine construction or dredging environment. This Position Requires for you to have at least a 100 Ton Captain's License and Towing Endorsement. Starting Pay for This Position: $650-725 Daily Rate. This is based on previous work experience, skills, and current certifications / professional licenses.Work Schedule: On Rotation.Responsibilities For the Tugboat Captain: Operate a tugboat and being able to push and tow a barge(s) and dredge (s). Operate in proximity of work areas to anticipate the needs of the crew and Dredge Operator.Prepare tools and operate boats and equipment for crew members for the work being performed.Maintain all vessel equipment in good working order and ensure that vessel is clean, well-stocked with supplies and spare parts at all times.Complete Daily Boat Maintenance Log/Checklist is Mandatory Comply with safety practices, rules, and regulations while performing job duties and follow company procedure in reporting unsafe conditions or practices.Facilitate alignment, movement of boats, or adjustment of machinery, equipment, or materials.Assist in performing maintenance as needed.Assist with washing and maintaining boats and equipment in proper working order.Keep work areas clean and organized. Work as a team and fulfill any and all other duties and tasks as assigned.Requirements For the Tugboat Captain:A valid 100 Ton Captain's License with Towing Endorsement.Dredging and / or Marine Construction Experience.Must be able to travel for extended periods of time.Must be able to stay overnight on vessel while on rotation. OSHA Certification a plusBoating or Equipment Certifications a plusMust be able to work outside for entire shift in all weather conditions (hot, humid, cold, wet) requiredBe honest, hardworking, reliable, punctual and attitude to get the job doneHighschool diploma or GED. Physical Demands/Work Environment of The Laborer / Site Help:Physical/Sensory Functions: Regularly will use sit, use hands, talk/hear; Frequently will reach with hands; Occasionally will stand, walk, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, taste/smell.Lift and/or Move Functions: Regularly will lift up to 10 pounds; Frequently will lift up to 25 pounds; Occasionally will lift up to 50 pounds.Employee Benefits. An excellent compensation and benefits package is offered. Benefit plans include:MedicalDentalVision401(k) Retirement PlanLife InsuranceShort-Term and Long-Term Disability InsurancePaid Time Off for Vacation, Sick and HolidaysSea Hawk Maritime is a:Drug-Free WorkplaceEqual Opportunity EmployerHomeland Security- E-Verify Company. Sea Hawk Maritime will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States.For more information, please visit www.seahawkmaritime.net
Job Posted by ApplicantPro