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Tugboat Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Robbins Maritime Inc

Tugboat Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$600 - $675/day

If you are a dedicated and experienced Tugboat Mate 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 Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$600 - $675/day

If you are a dedicated and experienced Tugboat Mate 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 Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$600 - $675/day

If you are a dedicated and experienced Tugboat Mate 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 Gen Logistics

Tugboat Captain

Lake Charles, LA · Remote

Tugboat Captain YOUR COMPASS TO SUCCESS Your New Company: At NGL Companies we are committed to ... Give assignments and direction to the mate and/or lead deckhand QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:

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 ... Give assignments and direction to the mate and/or lead deckhand QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:

Next Gen Logistics

Tugboat Captain

Cocodrie, LA · Remote

Tugboat Captain YOUR COMPASS TO SUCCESS Your New Company: At NGL Companies we are committed to ... Give assignments and direction to the mate and/or lead deckhand QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:

Dann Marine Towing

Mate

Chesapeake City, MD · On-site

S. Coast Guard Mate Pilot of Towing license endorsement or better * 3-5 years' experience operating a tugboat * Must possess a valid radar observer license. * Valid MMC, Coast Guard Medical ...

Dann Marine Towing

Mate

S. Coast Guard Mate Pilot of Towing license endorsement or better * 3-5 years' experience operating a tugboat * Must possess a valid radar observer license. * Valid MMC, Coast Guard Medical ...

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Tugboat Mate information

How to become a mate on a tugboat?

To become a tugboat mate, you typically need to gain experience as a deckhand or able seaman, obtain relevant certifications such as STCW and first aid, and accumulate sufficient sea time to qualify for a mate's license. Advancement depends on experience, training, and passing licensing exams required by maritime authorities.

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

To thrive as a Tugboat Mate, you need strong seamanship skills, navigational knowledge, and experience with vessel operations, often supported by a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with appropriate endorsements. Familiarity with towing equipment, radio communications, and navigational systems like radar and GPS is essential. Excellent teamwork, adaptability, and clear communication are key soft skills for managing dynamic situations on the water. These abilities ensure safe, efficient vessel movements and help maintain effective coordination among crew members in demanding maritime environments.

How much do tug boat mates make?

Tugboat mates typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. They often work long shifts and may need certifications such as STCW or TWIC to operate safely on vessels.

What does a typical work schedule look like for a Tugboat Mate?

Tugboat Mates often work in shift cycles that can range from several hours on and off duty to multi-day rotations, depending on the company and type of operation. The role frequently involves being on call to handle vessel movements, docking, undocking, and towing assignments at various hours, including nights and weekends. Work environments can be physically demanding and require readiness for changing weather and operational conditions. Teamwork and effective communication with the captain and crew are integral, as everyone relies on each other to ensure safe and timely operations. Understanding these work patterns is important for job seekers considering the flexibility and commitment the role requires.

What does a mate on a tugboat do?

A mate on a tugboat is a deck officer responsible for assisting with navigation, safety, and operations of the vessel. They oversee crew activities, handle mooring and towing tasks, and ensure compliance with safety regulations, often requiring certifications such as STCW. Mates work closely with the captain and other crew members in a demanding maritime environment.

What is a Tugboat Mate job?

A Tugboat Mate is a licensed mariner who assists the captain in operating and navigating a tugboat. They help with towing, docking, and maneuvering vessels, ensuring safety and efficiency. Duties include monitoring equipment, managing the crew, and maintaining communication with other vessels and ports. Tugboat Mates must have strong maritime knowledge, leadership skills, and relevant certifications, such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC).

Do tugboat deckhands make good money?

Tugboat deckhands typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. They often work long shifts in challenging environments and may need certifications such as STCW or TWIC to qualify for the role.
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Tugboat Mate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tugboat Mate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.
Tugboat Mate

Tugboat Mate

Robbins Maritime Inc

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$600 - $675/day

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

About us
Robbins Maritime, Inc. is a leading tug and barge company, established in 1986 and headquartered in Norfolk, VA. We specialize in providing reliable and efficient maritime support services along the East Coast and Gulf Coast of the United States.
 
Key Responsibilities:
Looking for Mate of Towing with experience working with dredging operations.
  • Work schedule is 28 days on and 14 days off
  • Paid travel to and from the vessel from closest major airport to residence
  • Crew safety, vessel safety and Environmental protection (Vessel Master has ultimate responsibility).
  • Pre-voyage inspections and voyage planning.
  • The safe operation and navigation of the vessel on it’s planned voyage including all dockings and un-dockings/departures and making and breaking tows
  • Ensuring the ability for up-to-date and corrected charts.
  • Maintaining a radio communications log reflecting all vessel-to-vessel communications, waypoints, and job start, stop and standby times.
  • Ensuring other crew members are completing their required duties and responsibilities.
  • Crew safety, vessel safety and Environmental protection.
  • Relieving the Captain in maintaining the safe operation and navigation of the vessel, on her planned voyage, so that neither operator is in operation of the vessel for more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period and that adequate rest is received by both.
  • Assisting the Captain in any of his/her other responsibilities as needed or requested.
Requirements:
·         Merchant Mariners Credentials (Mate of Towing-Near Coastal)
·         Valid Driver License
·         Valid TWIC Card
·         Must be able to pass Merchant Mariner Physical/CG-719K and Drug Screening 
·         Must have a Satisfactory Background Check
·         Excellent communication skills and ability to work well in a team
·         Physical fitness and the ability to handle the demands of working on a vessel
·         Subject to Random Drug Screening

Benefits:
·         Competitive salary and benefits package.
·         Health, Vision, Dental Insurance
·         Voluntary Life Insurance
·         401(k)
·         Safe Harbor 401(k) match
·         Opportunities for professional growth and development.
 
How to Apply:
If you are a dedicated and experienced Tugboat Mate looking to join a dynamic team, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your application on our website using the following link. https://www.robbinsmaritime.com/employment-application/. All application and resumes should be sent to hr@robbinsmaritime.com
Robbins Maritime, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.