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Tugboat Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Homestead Marine Services

Crew for Tugboat Pokagon

Seattle, WA · On-site

$22 - $28.50/hr

Well Tugboat Pokagon (ex Navy YTB-836) named after Chief Leopold Pokagon of the Potawatami, needs ... Positions that are available are... 500 Ton Master of Towing Designated Duty Engineer 2000 or 4000 ...

Dann Marine Towing

Cement Barge Engineer (CT1801/1802)

$81K - $110K/yr

This role supports continuous cargo operations, ballast management, and vessel readiness while working in coordination with the tugboat crew, shoreside engineering, and unloading personnel. The ...

Broussard Brothers Inc

Barge Engineer

Abbeville, LA · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

Barge Engineer Broussard Brothers, Inc. offers competitive pay, health, dental, and vision ... tugboat, or shore base on navigation, communication, and logistics. * Able to perform job in a safe ...

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Moran Towing Corporation

Port Engineer

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$103K - $114K/yr

Starting in 1860 as a tugboat company, we have grown from those roots to become a dominant provider ... POSITION SUMMARY: The Port Engineer is the lead engineer of the local Moran fleet reporting ...

Overstory

$98K - $134K/yr

Familiarity with compliance automation platforms (Drata, Vanta, Tugboat, etc.) * Experience leading or owning SOC 2 / ISO 27001 audits * Background in application or cloud security engineering

McAllister Towing

Port Engineer

Staten Island, NY

$100K/yr

McAllister Towing has provided superior tugboat service to New York Harbor since 1864, when Captain ... Port Engineer Reports to: The Port Engineer is directly responsible and accountable to the Vice ...

Curtin Maritime

Port Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

This is a great opportunity for a tugboat Chief Engineer looking to transition to a shoreside position, but this is not required. The preferred candidate will have a minimum of 5 years of experience ...

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Moran Towing Corporation

Licensed Engineer

Port Arthur, TX · On-site

$54.16 - $62.04/hr

Starting in 1860 as a tugboat company, we have grown from those roots to become a dominant provider ... The engineer has primary responsibility for the maintenance and operation of all machinery ...

Curtin Maritime, Corp

Port Engineer

Long Beach, CA

This is a great opportunity for a tugboat Chief Engineer looking to transition to a shoreside position, but this is not required. The preferred candidate will have a minimum of 5 years of experience ...

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Tugboat Engineer information

See salary details

$59.5K

$111.6K

$203K

How much do tugboat engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for tugboat engineer in the United States is $111,632.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Tugboat Engineer, you need in-depth knowledge of marine diesel engines, mechanical systems, and general vessel maintenance, often supported by a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential with engineering endorsements. Familiarity with engine room monitoring systems, diagnostic tools, and standard safety protocols is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, clear communication, and attention to detail help set exceptional candidates apart. These skills are crucial to ensure the tugboat operates safely and efficiently while minimizing downtime and responding effectively to mechanical issues at sea.

What does a Tugboat Engineer do?

A Tugboat Engineer is responsible for maintaining and repairing the mechanical and electrical systems on a tugboat. They ensure the engine, generators, pumps, and other essential equipment operate efficiently and safely. Regular inspections, troubleshooting, and emergency repairs are key parts of the job. Tugboat Engineers also monitor fuel and oil levels, maintain logs, and comply with maritime safety regulations. Their work is essential for keeping tugboats operational and assisting with towing and maneuvering larger vessels in harbors, rivers, or open waters.

What are the typical work hours and environment for a Tugboat Engineer?

Tugboat Engineers often work in rotating shifts, which may include nights, weekends, or extended periods at sea depending on the assignment and company. The work environment is primarily within the engine room of the vessel, which can be noisy, warm, and require vigilance for long stretches. Engineers collaborate closely with captains, deckhands, and other crew members to ensure the tug's machinery operates smoothly and safely. While schedules can be demanding, this structure allows for periods of time off between assignments and offers the opportunity to work in dynamic, team-oriented settings.

More about Tugboat Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Tugboat Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Tugboat Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tugboat Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Tugboat Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Tugboat Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Tugboat Engineer jobs include:
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Tugboat Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tugboat Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 25% Part Time, 5% Temporary, 63% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 1% Physical, and 99% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $111,632 per year, or $53.7 per hour.
Shipyard Project Manager - Tugboat & Barge Fleet

Shipyard Project Manager - Tugboat & Barge Fleet

Dann Marine Towing

Chesapeake City, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 hours ago

Job description

Description: The Shipyard Project Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing shipyard periods for a fleet of tugboats and barges. This role ensures that repair, maintenance, and regulatory compliance projects are executed safely, efficiently, on schedule, and within budget. The Shipyard Project Manager serves as the primary liaison between the company, shipyards, contractors, and vendors, ensuring high-quality workmanship and clear communication throughout each project.This position requires strong technical knowledge of tugboat and barge systems, excellent project management skills, and the ability to lead complex repair periods from initial scope development through final acceptance.Requirements:

Key Responsibilities

Shipyard Planning & Coordination

  • Develop detailed repair and maintenance scopes for scheduled shipyard periods.
  • Solicit, review, and evaluate shipyard bids and contractor proposals.
  • Coordinate project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
  • Ensure all work aligns with company standards, regulatory requirements, and class rules.

Project Management & Oversight

  • Serve as the on-site company representative during shipyard periods.
  • Oversee daily progress, ensuring work is completed safely, correctly, and efficiently.
  • Manage change orders, schedule adjustments, and emergent repairs.
  • Conduct inspections of completed work and verify quality before acceptance.
  • Coordinate with port engineers and vessel crews to ensure project alignment.

Technical & Operational Support

  • Provide technical guidance on mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and structural repairs.
  • Review engineering drawings, specifications, and repair procedures.
  • Support troubleshooting of complex vessel systems as needed during shipyard periods.
  • Ensure proper testing, commissioning, and sea trials following major repairs.

Documentation & Reporting

  • Maintain accurate project documentation, including daily progress logs, cost tracking, and change orders.
  • Prepare Port Engineering/Project Manager Reports summarizing completed work, costs, delays, and recommendations.
  • Submit reports to upper management and participate in post-project reviews.
  • Assist the Compliance Department in ensuring all regulatory documentation, class surveys, and USCG requirements are completed and filed.

Qualifications

Required

  • Strong background in marine engineering, naval architecture, or vessel repair management.
  • Hands-on knowledge of tugboat and barge systems, including diesel engines, electrical systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, and structural components.
  • Proven experience managing shipyard projects or major vessel repair periods.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, repair specifications, and regulatory requirements.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
  • Ability to work in industrial environments, including confined spaces and elevated areas.
  • Ability to lift tools, parts, and equipment as required.

Preferred

  • Experience with EMD, Caterpillar, Cummins, Wabtec, Mitsubishi, or Alco main engines.
  • Experience with Detroit, John Deere, Caterpillar, Cummins generators.
  • Experience with Tank Barges.
  • Experience with Ballast Water Treatment Systems.
  • Familiarity with ABS, USCG, and other maritime regulatory frameworks.
  • Welding, fabrication, or marine mechanical background.
  • Prior experience with tug and barge industry.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work in confined spaces, machinery spaces, and restricted areas.
  • Ability to work in elevated areas, including masts, stacks, and scaffolding.
  • Ability to lift parts, tools, and supplies as required.
  • Ability to climb ladders, gangways, and vertical access points.
  • Comfortable working around heat, noise, and heavy industrial equipment.

Work Environment & Expectations

  • Frequent travel to shipyards and vessel locations.
  • Extended on-site presence required during major repair periods.
  • Fast-paced environment requiring strong decision-making and problem-solving skills.
  • Close coordination with engineering, operations, and vessel crews.

Position Type: Full-Time with benefits, Shoreside (Remote with Travel)

Schedule: Monday – Friday with weekends as required by operational needs.

Travel: Required during shipyard periods and as operational needs dictate. A company vehicle is provided.

Shipyard: Responsible for overseeing vessel and barge shipyard periods.


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