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Tugboat Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sea Hawk Maritime

Tugboat Captain

Largo, FL · On-site

$650 - $725/day

Tugboat Captain Sea Hawk Maritime is looking for a Licensed Tugboat Captain - Operator. This is a great opportunity for an experienced Tugboat Captain who can operate and maintain a tug or push boat ...

Sea Hawk Maritime

Tugboat Captain

Largo, FL · On-site

$650 - $725/day

Tugboat Captain Sea Hawk Maritime is looking for a Licensed Tugboat Captain - Operator. This is a great opportunity for an experienced Tugboat Captain who can operate and maintain a tug or push boat ...

Robbins Maritime Inc

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 ...

Robbins Maritime Inc

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 ...

Robbins Maritime Inc

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 ...

Robbins Maritime Inc

Tugboat Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$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 ...

Robbins Maritime Inc

Tugboat Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$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 ...

Robbins Maritime Inc

Tugboat Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$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 ...

Orion Marine Group

Boat Captain

Houston, TX

Practices the "Rules of the Road" for operating vessels on inland waterways. * Uses radio equipment on the tugboat to communicate with the U.S. Coast Guard, ships,tugboats, etc. * Performs daily ...

TAS Concrete

Boat Captain

Houston, TX

Practices the "Rules of the Road" for operating vessels on inland waterways. * Uses radio equipment on the tugboat to communicate with the U.S. Coast Guard, ships,tugboats, etc. * Performs daily ...

Orion Group Holdings, Inc.

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

Practices the "Rules of the Road" for operating vessels on inland waterways. * Uses radio equipment on the tugboat to communicate with the U.S. Coast Guard, ships,tugboats, etc. * Performs daily ...

Schneider

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

Practices the "Rules of the Road" for operating vessels on inland waterways. * Uses radio equipment on the tugboat to communicate with the U.S. Coast Guard, ships,tugboats, etc. * Performs daily ...

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Tugboat Operator information

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$12

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$35

How much do tugboat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 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 is a tugboat operator?

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 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 is the difference between Tugboat Operator vs Marine Pilot?

AspectTugboat OperatorMarine Pilot
CredentialsSTCW certification, maritime licensesSTCW certification, pilot license
Work EnvironmentOn tugboats, near ports and harborsOn ships, navigating through ports and waterways
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, port authoritiesShipping lines, port authorities
Primary RoleOperate tugboats to assist shipsNavigate 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.

Do tugboat operators make good money?

Tugboat operators typically earn a competitive salary, with median wages often exceeding national averages for similar maritime roles. Their income can vary based on experience, certifications, and the region, and they often work in demanding environments requiring specialized skills and safety training.

How do I become a tugboat operator?

To become a tugboat operator, you typically need a valid Merchant Mariner Credential with a towing endorsement, which requires completing maritime training and gaining sea time experience. Many operators start as deckhands or apprentices to build skills and often need to pass physical exams and background checks due to the demanding nature of the job. Certification requirements can vary by region and employer.
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Tugboat Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tugboat Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,869 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Tugboat Operator (Grade 9)

Bath, ME • On-site

General Dynamics - Bath Iron Works
Ship and Boat Building • 501 - 1,000 employees

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about General Dynamics - Bath Iron Worksexternal

$39.03/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description


The pay of this position starts at $39.03/hr.
Reports to Dockmaster (Facilities Waterfront Management)
Operates pushboat Thomas Hyde in and around the GDBIW waterfront facility, and on the Kennebec River from Day's Ferry to Pond Island as required
Job responsibilities include:
  • Moves and tends barges for ship construction and maintenance activities within the GDBIW waterfront facility.
  • Acts as principal on-scene safety observer while operating pushboat and/ or tending barges.
  • Consults with management on safe work practices on, and scheduling of, pushboat and barge operations.
  • Monitors all environmental conditions on waterfront, and notifies management if conditions become unsafe for operations.
  • Transfers personnel to and from barges throughout workday.
  • Performs hydrographic surveys of piers, dry dock facilities, and navigable channel of Kennebec River, as required.
  • Performs ice breaking / clearing along all waterfront facilities throughout winter months.
  • Performs personnel transfers and ship assist work during dockings and undockings from Dry Dock #3.
  • Performs preventive maintenance and minor repairs to the tug.
  • Perform functions associated with the (M20) Maintenance Mechanic classification Task List as assigned
  • Carry a BIW mobile phone and support BIW scheduling requirements.

Required/Preferred Education/Training
Required:
  • USCG Licensed 50T Master (NC)

Preferred:
  • Endorsement as Master of Towing Vessels

Required/Preferred Experience
Required:
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience with requirements associated with the above.
  • Demonstrated ability to self-manage and take initiative; must be a self-starter requiring limited supervision.
  • Demonstrated familiarity with maritime industry best safety practices.
  • Demonstrated advanced seamanship ability.
  • Demonstrated ability with barge handling.

Preferred:
  • Familiarity with commercial diving operations.
  • Familiarity with setting and retrieving buoys and ground tackle.
  • Familiarity with routine marine diesel engine, hydraulic system, and electric system maintenance.
  • Commercial vessel operation experience.

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