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Tugboat No Experience Jobs (NOW HIRING)

2ND MATE

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$24.75 - $27.50/hr

Western Alaska Tugboat experience * Multi-Cargo Barge experience * Tankerman PIC/Assist * OICNW ... Valid TWIC * Valid Passport - must be able to travel internationally with no felonies, DUI, or ...

MATE TUG CLASS I

Detroit, MI · On-site

$48.44/hr

Serves as Mate, of a diesel, Class I, tugboat over 65' feet in length, and displacing 500 gross ... There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to ...

Licensed Engineer

Port Arthur, TX · On-site

$85 - $92/hr

Starting in 1860 as a tugboat company, we have grown from those roots to become a dominant provider ... Maritime experience working aboard a vessel. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: * Work safely in a marine setting.

Warehouse Team Lead

Mchenry, IL · On-site

$23.82/hr

... Tugboat Institute as an Evergreen company (built to last, people-first, no outside investors ... High school diploma or GED * 1-2+ years of warehouse experience preferred (lead experience a plus ...

Warehouse Team Lead

Mchenry, IL · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

... Tugboat Institute as an Evergreen company (built to last, people-first, no outside investors ... High school diploma or GED * 1-2+ years of warehouse experience preferred (lead experience a plus ...

MATE TUG CLASS I

Detroit, MI · On-site

$48.44/hr

Serves as Mate, of a diesel, Class I, tugboat over 65' feet in length, and displacing 500 gross ... There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to ...

At Chick-fil-A ® Cahaba Heights, we carefully crafted a leadership development process that's open to all from day 1. No previous experience required! You will be paired 1 on 1 with an experienced ...

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Tugboat No Experience information

See salary details

$19K

$104.2K

$181.5K

How much do tugboat no experience jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for tugboat no experience 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 are tugboat jobs with no experience required?

Tugboat jobs with no experience required typically refer to entry-level positions on tugboats, such as deckhands or deck crew members. These roles involve assisting with docking and undocking ships, handling lines, maintaining the vessel, and performing basic cleaning and safety tasks. Most companies provide on-the-job training, so prior maritime experience is not necessary. However, a willingness to learn, good physical fitness, and the ability to work in various weather conditions are important. Advancement to higher positions is possible with experience and additional certifications.

What can I expect during my first few weeks working on a tugboat with no prior experience?

As a newcomer on a tugboat, you'll likely start with basic deckhand duties, such as line handling, cleaning, and assisting with routine maintenance. You'll be paired with experienced crew members who will mentor you on safety procedures, vessel operations, and teamwork. The learning curve can be steep, especially with long shifts and working in all weather conditions, but most tug companies provide thorough on-the-job training. Demonstrating reliability, a strong work ethic, and eagerness to learn will help you quickly adapt and progress within the crew.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tugboat crew member with no prior experience?

To thrive as a tugboat crew member with no experience, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, basic seamanship knowledge, and a willingness to learn on the job. Familiarity with safety protocols, marine radios, and basic deck equipment is often developed through on-the-job training and may require certifications like a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). Physical fitness, teamwork, strong communication, and a proactive attitude are important soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for safe vessel operations, effective crew collaboration, and adapting to the demanding and dynamic maritime environment.

What is the difference between Tugboat No Experience vs Marine Deckhand?

AspectTugboat No ExperienceMarine Deckhand
Required CertificationsBasic safety and STCW certifications often neededSTCW certifications typically required
Work EnvironmentOn tugboats, often in ports or nearshoreOn ships or vessels, including cargo and passenger ships
Employer & Industry UsageMaritime companies, port authoritiesShipping lines, cruise companies, maritime services
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level maritime rolesMore experienced, but entry-level positions are similar

While both roles operate in maritime environments and may require similar certifications, Tugboat No Experience positions are typically entry-level roles focused on assisting with tugboat operations, often in port or nearshore settings. Marine Deckhands may have more diverse responsibilities on various vessels. The main difference lies in the specific vessel type and work scope, with Tugboat No Experience roles being ideal for those starting in tugboat operations.

More about Tugboat No Experience jobs

What cities are hiring for Tugboat No Experience jobs?

Cities with the most Tugboat No Experience job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Tugboat jobs?

The most popular types of Tugboat jobs are:

What states have the most Tugboat No Experience jobs?

States with the most job openings for Tugboat No Experience jobs include:

Infographic showing various Tugboat No Experience job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,157 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

TUGBOAT CAPTAIN/DESIGNATED DUTY ENGINEER with Security Clearance

Newport News Shipbuilding

Newport News, VA • On-site

$82K - $103K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Req ID: 49446 Team: X36 WTRFT SUPPORT SERV Entity: Newport News Shipbuilding US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes Full-Time
Shift: Multiple Relocation: No relocation assistance available Virtual/Telework Opportunity: No - Not eligible for telework Travel Requirements: No Clearance Required: No - Clearance Not Required to Start Salary Range: $82,000.00 to $103,000.00 The anticipated salary range represents the estimated base pay for this role. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors, and may vary from the posted range Meet HII's Newport News Shipbuilding
With more than 25,000 employees - including third-, fourth- and even fifth-generation shipbuilders - HII's Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division is the largest industrial employer in Virginia. We're the sole designer, builder and refueler of U.S. Navy nuclear aircraft carriers and one of two providers of U.S. Navy nuclear submarines. Our diverse and innovative team of professionals ranges from skilled trades to project managers, engineers and software developers to solution architects, technical subject matter experts, and system users. We collaborate together at the forefront of technology, manufacturing, and integration of the most powerful and survivable naval ships in the world. Want to be part of the team? Apply today! We look forward to meeting you. The Role Must be licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard ( U.S. Coast Guard License, Radar License). A minimum of three years experience on tugboats is required prior to examination by U.S. Coast Guard. Must have a specialized knowledge of local winds, current tides reading, and weather and shipping hazards. The candidate must be able to supervise the work of hourly deck hands, motivate and train these employees, and possess strong communication, interpersonal and leadership skills. An incumbent must possess a thorough technical knowledge of the tug boats, and Ship movement, and have a solid educational base, generally gained through working as a Tug Boat Deck Hand or the equivalent in education and training. The job may involve exposure to extreme weather and other environmental conditions encountered in working on the water and must be able to work a variable work schedule. Must Have This position requires a high school graduate or equivalent. Apprentice graduate is desirable. Must be licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard ( U.S. Coast Guard License, Radar License ) and have a minimum of three years experience on tugboats is required prior to examination by U.S. Coast Guard. Must have a specialized knowledge of local winds, current tides reading, and weather and shipping hazards. The candidate must be able to supervise the work of deck hands, motivate and train these employees , and possess strong communication, interpersonal and leadership skills. An incumbent must possess a thorough technical knowledge of the tug boats, and Ship movement, and have a solid educational base, generally gained through working as a Tug Boat Deck Hand or the equivalent in education and training. Nice to Have * Engine operation and watchkeeping: Running and monitoring the main propulsion plant, ensuring safe and efficient operation. * Maintenance and repairs: Performing routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairing machinery and systems. * System oversight: Managing electrical, sewage treatment, lube oil, bilge, and oily water separation systems. * Fueling and lubrication: Ensuring proper fuel handling, storage, and lubrication of machinery. * Safety and compliance: Adhering to U.S. Coast Guard and STCW safety, pollution prevention, and watchkeeping standards. * Documentation: Maintaining accurate logs and records of engine-room operations and maintenance. Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. HII's diverse workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals. Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career. Working at HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a future. We offer comprehensive benefits including: medical, prescription drug, dental and vision plan choices, on-site health centers, tele-medicine, wellness resources, employee assistance programs, savings plan options (401K), financial education and planning tools, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships, and more. Some benefits may vary depending on your specific division or work location. Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law. U.S. Citizenship may be required for certain positions. Do You Need Assistance? If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this e-mail address. Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #2 for Newport News Shipbuilding.