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Tugboat Crew Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Next Gen Logistics

Tugboat Captain

New Orleans, LA · Remote

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 ...

Next Gen Logistics

Tugboat Captain

Lake Charles, LA · Remote

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 ...

Beyel Brothers

Tugboat Captain

Merritt Island, FL · On-site

TUGBOAT CAPTAIN OCEANS W/MASTER OF TOWING ENDORSEMENT At Beyel Brothers, were dedicated to ... Ensure crew members are provided with information to adhere to Maritime Regulations. * Direct crew ...

Next Gen Logistics

Tugboat Captain

Cocodrie, LA · Remote

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 ...

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

$725/day

Crew safety, vessel safety and Environmental protection (Vessel Master has ultimate responsibility ... If you are a dedicated and an experienced Tugboat Captain looking to join a dynamic team, we would ...

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Tugboat Crew information

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How much do tugboat crew jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for tugboat crew in the United States is $21.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tugboat Crew member, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tugboat Crew member, you need knowledge of maritime operations, basic seamanship skills, and often a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) or similar maritime certification. Familiarity with navigation systems, marine radios, winches, and safety equipment is typically required. Strong teamwork, situational awareness, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for safe and efficient vessel operations. These skills ensure the safe maneuvering of ships and cargo, prevent accidents, and support smooth harbor or waterway operations.

What is the difference between Tugboat Crew vs Marine Engineer?

AspectTugboat CrewMarine Engineer
Required CertificationsSTCW certifications, TWIC cardSTCW certifications, Marine Engineer license
Work EnvironmentOn tugboats, near ports, in open waterEngine rooms, ship decks, technical areas
Employer & Industry UsageMaritime shipping, port operationsShip management, shipping companies

While both Tugboat Crew and Marine Engineers work in maritime environments, Tugboat Crew primarily operate and assist with maneuvering vessels in ports and waterways, focusing on physical tasks and navigation. Marine Engineers are responsible for maintaining and repairing ship engines and systems, working mainly in engine rooms. Both roles require maritime certifications, but their daily duties and work environments differ significantly.

What are the typical work schedules and living arrangements like for tugboat crew members?

Tugboat crew members often work in rotating shifts that can range from a week on and a week off, to longer periods depending on the employer and assignment. While on duty, crew members typically live aboard the tugboat, sharing cabins and common facilities with their teammates in close quarters. The environment can be physically demanding and requires strong teamwork, as crew members must communicate effectively and support each other during long hours and challenging conditions. Off-duty time is generally spent at home or at a designated shore facility, allowing for rest and personal time before the next rotation.

Is working on a tugboat worth it?

Working as a tugboat crew member involves operating and maintaining vessels that assist in maneuvering ships in harbors and ports. The job often requires physical stamina, safety training, and certifications such as STCW, and can offer competitive pay and opportunities for advancement. However, it also involves long hours, challenging conditions, and time away from home.

How much do tugboat crews make?

Tugboat crew members typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific roles such as captain or deckhand. Salaries can increase with certifications, overtime, and working in high-demand maritime environments.

What are tugboat crew and what do they do?

Tugboat crew are maritime professionals responsible for operating and maintaining tugboats, which are specialized vessels used to maneuver larger ships in harbors, rivers, and canals. Their main duties include assisting with docking, undocking, and guiding ships safely through confined or congested waters. Crew members may also handle towing operations, perform routine maintenance, and ensure the safety of the vessel and its occupants. Typical positions within a tugboat crew include captain, mate, engineer, and deckhand. Working on a tugboat often involves long hours, teamwork, and strong knowledge of maritime safety protocols.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Tugboat crew members typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily wages are more common in specialized roles like offshore oil rig workers, certain high-level consultants, or executive positions. Most maritime or industrial jobs with high pay require extensive experience, certifications, and often involve working in challenging environments or long shifts.

What qualifications do you need to work on a tugboat?

To work as a tugboat crew member, candidates typically need a valid maritime license such as a Merchant Mariner Credential or a Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) certificate. Physical fitness, good communication skills, and experience with boat handling are also important, along with a background in maritime safety and navigation. Additional certifications in first aid and firefighting are often required depending on the vessel and employer.
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Tugboat Crew jobs near you
Tugboat Captain

Tugboat Captain

Next Generation Logistics LLC

New Orleans, LA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

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 tugboat vessel. 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

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