Responsibilities Brasfield & Gorrie is currently accepting applications for a Tugboat Operator (Heavy Equipment Operator). Below are the main responsibilities for this position. (This description may ...
Responsibilities Brasfield & Gorrie is currently accepting applications for a Tugboat Operator (Heavy Equipment Operator). Below are the main responsibilities for this position. (This description may ...
Responsibilities Brasfield & Gorrie is currently accepting applications for a Tugboat Operator (Heavy Equipment Operator). Below are the main responsibilities for this position. (This description may ...
Responsibilities Brasfield & Gorrie is currently accepting applications for a Tugboat Operator (Heavy Equipment Operator). Below are the main responsibilities for this position. (This description may ...
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Tugboat Captain
New York, NY · On-site
... a tugboat and its crew during towing, docking, ship assist, and marine transportation operations ... operated along the entire East Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. 41° North maintains a fleet of ...
Quick apply
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Tugboat Captain
New York, NY · On-site
... a tugboat and its crew during towing, docking, ship assist, and marine transportation operations ... operated along the entire East Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. 41° North maintains a fleet of ...
Be Seen First
Tugboat Captain
New Bedford, MA · On-site
... a tugboat and its crew during towing, docking, ship assist, and marine transportation operations ... operated along the entire East Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. 41° North maintains a fleet of ...
Quick apply
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Tugboat Captain
New Bedford, MA · On-site
... a tugboat and its crew during towing, docking, ship assist, and marine transportation operations ... operated along the entire East Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. 41° North maintains a fleet of ...
Be Seen First
Tugboat Captain
Boston, MA · On-site
... a tugboat and its crew during towing, docking, ship assist, and marine transportation operations ... operated along the entire East Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. 41° North maintains a fleet of ...
Quick apply
Be Seen First
Tugboat Captain
Boston, MA · On-site
... a tugboat and its crew during towing, docking, ship assist, and marine transportation operations ... operated along the entire East Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. 41° North maintains a fleet of ...
TUGBOAT CAPTAIN The Tugboat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of company ... operating experience at meets or exceeds performance expectations. What we can offer you: Inclusive ...
TUGBOAT CAPTAIN The Tugboat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of company ... operating experience at meets or exceeds performance expectations. What we can offer you: Inclusive ...
TUGBOAT CAPTAIN The Tugboat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of company ... Preference given to candidates with a minimum of 5 years of equipment operating experience at meets ...
TUGBOAT CAPTAIN The Tugboat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of company ... Preference given to candidates with a minimum of 5 years of equipment operating experience at meets ...
TUGBOAT CAPTAIN The Tugboat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of company ... Preference given to candidates with a minimum of 5 years of equipment operating experience at meets ...
TUGBOAT CAPTAIN The Tugboat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of company ... Preference given to candidates with a minimum of 5 years of equipment operating experience at meets ...
TUGBOAT CAPTAIN The Tugboat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of company ... Preference given to candidates with a minimum of 5 years of equipment operating experience at meets ...
TUGBOAT CAPTAIN The Tugboat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of company ... Preference given to candidates with a minimum of 5 years of equipment operating experience at meets ...
TUGBOAT CAPTAIN The Tugboat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of company ... Preference given to candidates with a minimum of 5 years of equipment operating experience at meets ...
TUGBOAT CAPTAIN The Tugboat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of company ... Preference given to candidates with a minimum of 5 years of equipment operating experience at meets ...
TUGBOAT CAPTAIN The Tugboat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of company ... Preference given to candidates with a minimum of 5 years of equipment operating experience at meets ...
TUGBOAT CAPTAIN The Tugboat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of company ... Preference given to candidates with a minimum of 5 years of equipment operating experience at meets ...
TUGBOAT CAPTAIN The Tugboat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of company ... Preference given to candidates with a minimum of 5 years of equipment operating experience at meets ...
TUGBOAT CAPTAIN The Tugboat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of company ... Preference given to candidates with a minimum of 5 years of equipment operating experience at meets ...
Tugboat Captain
$725/day
... operator is in operation of the vessel for more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period and that ... If you are a dedicated and an experienced Tugboat Captain looking to join a dynamic team, we would ...
Quick apply
Tugboat Captain
$725/day
... operator is in operation of the vessel for more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period and that ... If you are a dedicated and an experienced Tugboat Captain looking to join a dynamic team, we would ...
Tugboat Captain
Norfolk, VA · On-site
$725/day
... operator is in operation of the vessel for more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period and that ... If you are a dedicated and an experienced Tugboat Captain looking to join a dynamic team, we would ...
Quick apply
Tugboat Captain
Norfolk, VA · On-site
$725/day
... operator is in operation of the vessel for more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period and that ... If you are a dedicated and an experienced Tugboat Captain looking to join a dynamic team, we would ...
Tugboat Captain
Norfolk, VA · On-site
$725/day
... operator is in operation of the vessel for more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period and that ... If you are a dedicated and an experienced Tugboat Captain looking to join a dynamic team, we would ...
Quick apply
Tugboat Captain
Norfolk, VA · On-site
$725/day
... operator is in operation of the vessel for more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period and that ... If you are a dedicated and an experienced Tugboat Captain looking to join a dynamic team, we would ...
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Tugboat Deckhand
New York, NY · On-site
MMC, TWIC, STCW Company Description Established in 2011 with a single tugboat, 41° North Offshore ... operated along the entire East Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. 41° North maintains a fleet of ...
Quick apply
Be Seen First
Tugboat Deckhand
New York, NY · On-site
MMC, TWIC, STCW Company Description Established in 2011 with a single tugboat, 41° North Offshore ... operated along the entire East Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. 41° North maintains a fleet of ...
Be Seen First
Tugboat Deckhand
New Bedford, MA · On-site
MMC, TWIC, STCW Company Description Established in 2011 with a single tugboat, 41° North Offshore ... operated along the entire East Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. 41° North maintains a fleet of ...
Quick apply
Be Seen First
Tugboat Deckhand
New Bedford, MA · On-site
MMC, TWIC, STCW Company Description Established in 2011 with a single tugboat, 41° North Offshore ... operated along the entire East Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. 41° North maintains a fleet of ...
Be Seen First
Tugboat Mate
New Bedford, MA · On-site
$36.50 - $40/hr
... tugboat, 41° North Offshore, LLC has grown into a full service provider of marine towing ... operated along the entire East Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. 41° North maintains a fleet of ...
Quick apply
Be Seen First
Tugboat Mate
New Bedford, MA · On-site
$36.50 - $40/hr
... tugboat, 41° North Offshore, LLC has grown into a full service provider of marine towing ... operated along the entire East Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. 41° North maintains a fleet of ...
Be Seen First
Tugboat Mate
New York, NY · On-site
$39.50 - $43.25/hr
... tugboat, 41° North Offshore, LLC has grown into a full service provider of marine towing ... operated along the entire East Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. 41° North maintains a fleet of ...
Quick apply
Be Seen First
Tugboat Mate
New York, NY · On-site
$39.50 - $43.25/hr
... tugboat, 41° North Offshore, LLC has grown into a full service provider of marine towing ... operated along the entire East Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. 41° North maintains a fleet of ...
Tugboat Mate
$600 - $675/day
... operator is in operation of the vessel for more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period and that ... If you are a dedicated and experienced Tugboat Mate looking to join a dynamic team, we would love ...
Quick apply
Tugboat Mate
$600 - $675/day
... operator is in operation of the vessel for more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period and that ... If you are a dedicated and experienced Tugboat Mate looking to join a dynamic team, we would love ...
Tugboat Operator information
See salary details
$12.02 - $14.14
3% of jobs
$14.14 - $16.26
2% of jobs
$16.26 - $18.38
4% of jobs
$20.43 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$18.38 - $20.50
16% of jobs
The median wage is $21.89 / hr.
$20.50 - $22.62
37% of jobs
$22.62 - $24.74
5% of jobs
$24.74 - $26.86
2% of jobs
$26.86 - $28.98
1% of jobs
$29.51 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$28.98 - $31.10
15% of jobs
$31.10 - $33.22
9% of jobs
$33.22 - $35.34
5% of jobs
$12
$24
$35
How much do tugboat operator jobs pay per hour?
As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for tugboat operator in the United States is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tugboat Operator, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Tugboat Operator, you need a strong understanding of maritime navigation, vessel handling, and safety protocols, typically supported by a valid captain’s license such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with appropriate endorsements. Familiarity with navigation systems, marine radios, radar, and towing equipment is essential for daily operations. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making, and teamwork skills set top operators apart in challenging environments. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe and efficient vessel movements, protect crew and cargo, and comply with maritime regulations.
What are some common challenges Tugboat Operators face when working in busy ports?
Tugboat Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating crowded waterways, coordinating movements with large vessels, and adapting quickly to changing weather or tidal conditions. Communication with port authorities, other tug crews, and ship captains is crucial to ensure safe and efficient operations. Additionally, operators must remain vigilant for potential hazards and be prepared to respond to emergencies or mechanical issues on short notice.
What are tugboat operators?
Tugboat operators are skilled maritime professionals responsible for maneuvering tugboats to assist larger vessels in docking, undocking, and navigating through harbors, rivers, and canals. They play a crucial role in ensuring the safe movement of ships, especially in confined or busy waters where large vessels have limited maneuverability. Tugboat operators must have extensive knowledge of navigation, maritime safety regulations, and vessel handling. Their work often involves teamwork, communication with harbor authorities, and working in various weather conditions.
What is the difference between Tugboat Operator vs Marine Pilot?
| Aspect | Tugboat Operator | Marine Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | STCW certification, maritime licenses | STCW certification, pilot license |
| Work Environment | On tugboats, near ports and harbors | On ships, navigating through ports and waterways |
| Employer & Industry | Shipping companies, port authorities | Shipping lines, port authorities |
| Primary Role | Operate tugboats to assist ships | Navigate ships into port or through difficult waters |
While both roles require maritime certifications and involve working in port environments, Tugboat Operators focus on maneuvering tugboats to assist larger vessels, whereas Marine Pilots are responsible for navigating ships through challenging waters into ports. Both careers are essential in maritime operations but serve different functions within the industry.
More about Tugboat Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Tugboat Operator jobs? The most popular types of Tugboat Operator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Tugboat Operator jobs? The top employers for Tugboat Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Tugboat Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Tugboat Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Tugboat Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Tugboat Operator jobs are:
Full-time
Posted 3 days ago
Brasfield & Gorrie rating
6.9
Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
Responsibilities
Education - Skills - Knowledge - Qualifications & Experience
Brasfield & Gorrie is currently accepting applications for a Tugboat Operator (Heavy Equipment Operator). Below are the main responsibilities for this position.
(This description may not include all duties required of this position)
- To serve as the captain of the vessel assigned in charge of overall safe operations, maintenance and crew.
- Able to operate any Vessel in the marine fleet safely.
- Steer tugboat or crew boat to push pull barges to the desired destination around worksite.
- Must adhere to safety protocol, and work in a drug-free environment.
Education - Skills - Knowledge - Qualifications & Experience
Credentials required
Experience navigating intercoastal waterways with merchant Mariners credentials, preferably 100 ton master license
3 years Tugboat Operator experience preferred.
EOE/Vets/Disabilities
Qualifications:Credentials required
Experience navigating intercoastal waterways with merchant Mariners credentials, preferably 100 ton master license
3 years Tugboat Operator experience preferred.
EOE/Vets/Disabilities
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME
About Brasfield & Gorrie
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Construction
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Birmingham, AL, US
Year founded
1921