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Tugboat Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Port Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$120K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

Senior Security Engineer

Canada, KY · On-site +1

$107K - $147K/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 has provided superior tugboat service to New York Harbor since 1864, when Captain ... The Licensed Engineer is directly responsible for the proper operation and maintenance of all ...

McAllister Towing has provided superior tugboat service to New York Harbor since 1864, when Captain ... The Licensed Engineer is directly responsible for the proper operation and maintenance of all ...

Senior Security Engineer

$117K - $160K/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

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Tugboat Engineer information

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$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:
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.

$53.88 - $55.33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Moran Towing Corporation (www.morantug.com) has an opportunity available for an Assistant Engineer, for Moran Transportation. This is a full-time position reporting to the Chief Engineer.

Moran Towing Corporation is one of the oldest companies in America and has prospered by continuously reinventing itself for over 160 years. Starting in 1860 as a tugboat company, we have grown from those roots to become a dominant provider of commercial ship docking services, marine transportation, LNG support operations, environmental recovery, and commercial diving services. While economies, cultures, markets, and technology will always continue to evolve, our steadfast commitment to partnering with our employees and customers to solve our customers' marine requirements has enabled us to stay the course year after year.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Assistant Engineer assists with the safe and efficient operation and maintenance of all machinery, associated systems, and spaces.

Specific Responsibilities include, but are not limited, to the following:

  • Adhere to policies and procedures in the Safety Management System (SMS). Report unsafe situations, conditions, or opportunities for improvement.
  • On joining the vessel, liaise with off-going engineers to become familiar with machinery and equipment and current operational status. Properly turn over duties to relief at each watch change and crew change.
  • Keep the Chief Engineer apprised of all unusual conditions, including requirements for maintenance or repair which may adversely affect the safety of the vessel and crew or its operating schedule.
  • Maintain accurate and complete Engine Log, Oil Record Book, and maintenance and repair records.
  • Assist with monthly fuel and lube oil reporting requirements, including helping with collecting fuel oil samples and making entries in Bunker Log.
  • Assist, as directed, with loading, use and transfer of fuel oil, lube oil, waste oil and oily waste, and potable and ballast water.
  • Monitor the quality and condition of spare parts and engineering supplies and help with maintaining inventories of adequate spare parts and tools.
  • Assist onboard the barge as directed by the Chief Engineer and/or Captain.
  • Complete general and planned maintenance tasks and other duties as assigned by the Chief Engineer or Captain.

REQUIRED Qualifications:

  • 3rd Assistant Engineer Unlimited Oceans or Chief Engineer (limited) or Assistant Engineer (limited) Oceans or Near Coastal (Minimum 6000hp), upon vessels of less than 1600 GRT.
  • STCW endorsement as Chief Engineer or OICEW and all other STCW endorsements for required service (i.e., Lifeboatman, VPDSD, etc.).
  • Current Medical Certificate.
  • Valid passport.
  • Valid TWIC.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree in a maritime or related field.
  • 1-2 years sea going experience.
  • Proficiency in MS Office.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Ability to work safely and navigate in a marine setting; walk, sit, or stand for extended periods of time; frequently reach with hands and arms; frequently crouch or stoop; climb/descend stairs and ladders; occasionally lift and/or carry up to 60 pounds; occasionally enter and work in confined spaces; travel a minimum of 50% of the year; withstand exposure to environmental conditions such as heat, rain, cold and or/humidity.

IN RETURN, WE OFFER:

  • Competitive compensation
  • Career development opportunities
  • Team-oriented work environment
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Health Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Company paid Life, AD&D, and Long-Term Disability Insurance Plans
  • Employee Assistance, Health Advocate, and Wellness Programs
  • Generous 401(k) Plan with employer non-elective, matching, and discretionary contributions
  • Company paid Financial Advice Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program

PAY TRANSPARENCY:

Moran Towing Corporation offers generous benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and competitive salaries based on geographic location. Our target pay range for the Assistant Engineer position is $53.88 - $55.33per hour. This pay range represents Moran's commitment to pay transparency and is a reasonable estimate of possible compensation for this role at the time of posting. The final salary for this role will be determined based on careful consideration of a variety of factors, such as the candidate's exact location, experience, and expertise related to the qualifications.

Moran Towing Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, or other legally protected status.