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Tugboat Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

HOLDEN MARINE TOWING INC

Be Seen First

Licensed Tug Operator

Callahan, FL · On-site

$48.48/hr

Captain (Union) * Directs and is responsible for the management, navigation, and safety of the crew, vessel and tow. * Ensures all operations comply with state, federal, and maritime regulatory ...

HOLDEN MARINE TOWING INC

Be Seen First

Licensed Tug Operator

Callahan, FL · On-site

$48.48/hr

Captain (Union) * Directs and is responsible for the management, navigation, and safety of the crew, vessel and tow. * Ensures all operations comply with state, federal, and maritime regulatory ...

Talon Air, Inc.

Global 6000 - Captain

Stuart, FL · On-site

We are a Part 135 operator headquartered in Farmingdale, NY, operating a fleet of 40+ aircraft including Global 6000/5000, Gulfstream G550/G450, GV, G-IVSP, Challenger 604/605, Challenger 3500 ...

SURJET CHARTER LLC

Global 5000 Captain

Opa Locka, FL · On-site

$200K - $230K/yr

Surjet Charter & Management is a direct charter and management operator offering global private jet charter solutions. We are seeking a skilled and experienced Global 5000 Captain to join our dynamic ...

National Air Cargo Group Inc

Captain 777

Orlando, FL · On-site

Hold and FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit. * Have a minimum of 5000 hours total time. * Have a minimum of 1000 hours of pilot-in-command (PIC) time or second in command (SIC) to qualify ...

OSI Recruit

G550 - Captain - 91/135

Stuart, FL · On-site

As a G550 Pilot, you will be responsible for safely operating aircraft and ensuring the comfort and safety of its owners. This is a full\-time position with competitive pay. \n \n \n \n \n TYPE ...

OSI Recruit

G650ER - Captain

Stuart, FL · On-site

As a G650 Pilot, you will be responsible for safely operating aircraft and ensuring the comfort and safety of its owners. This is a full\-time position with competitive pay. \n \n \n \n \n TYPE ...

National Air Cargo, Inc

Captain 777

Orlando, FL · On-site

Hold and FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit. * Have a minimum of 5000 hours total time. * Have a minimum of 1000 hours of pilot-in-command (PIC) time or second in command (SIC) to qualify ...

National Airlines

Captain 777

Orlando, FL · On-site

Hold and FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit. * Have a minimum of 5000 hours total time. * Have a minimum of 1000 hours of pilot-in-command (PIC) time or second in command (SIC) to qualify ...

SURJET CHARTER LLC

Global 5000 Captain

Opa Locka, FL · On-site

$200K - $230K/yr

Surjet Charter & Management is a direct charter and management operator offering global private jet charter solutions. We are seeking a skilled and experienced Global 5000 Captain to join our dynamic ...

All JobsTugboat Operator JobsTugboat Operator Jobs in Florida

Tugboat Operator information

See Florida salary details

$8

$18

$26

How much do tugboat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for tugboat operator in Florida is $18.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $22.45 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.

Do tugboat operators make good money?

Tugboat operators typically earn a competitive salary, with median wages often ranging from $50,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They may also receive benefits such as overtime pay, hazard pay, and certifications that can increase earning potential. The job requires specialized skills, including navigation and safety procedures, and often involves working in challenging maritime environments.

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.

How do you become a tugboat operator?

To become a tugboat operator, individuals typically need a valid Merchant Mariner Credential with a towing endorsement from the Coast Guard, which requires completing maritime training, gaining sea time experience, and passing written exams. Prior experience in maritime or related fields and strong navigation and communication skills are also important for this role.

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 popular job titles related to Tugboat Operator jobs in Florida? For Tugboat Operator jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Tugboat Operator jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Tugboat Operator jobs in Florida are:
Tugboat Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tugboat Operator job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,014 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Licensed Tug Operator

HOLDEN MARINE TOWING INC

Callahan, FL • On-site

$48.48/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago

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Job description

Captain (Union)

  • Directs and is responsible for the management, navigation, and safety of the crew, vessel and tow.
  • Ensures all operations comply with state, federal, and maritime regulatory requirements.
  • Attend safety meetings and completes job safety analyses (JSA).
  • Supervises the maintenance, repairs, and functions of all vessel equipment.
  • Responsible for record keeping of daily operations.
  • Aids in the orientation of new personnel.
  • Examines and adjust operations for tide, current, and weather conditions.
  • Reads and maintains navigational charts and aids.
  • This position is coastwise and requires work along the United States Atlantic and Gulf coasts.
  • A typical work schedule is four weeks on and two weeks off.
  • This position is represented by IUOE Local 25.
  • Wages start at $48.48 per hour with incentive pay for certain licenses, certifications, and certified endorsements.
  • Union provided benefits include medical, vision, dental, annuity/401K retirement plan, pension, and vacation.

Requirements

  • Valid Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Valid Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC)
  • Master of Towing Vessels
  • Radar Observer
  • STCW certification (if needed)
  • Valid driver's license
  • Pass USCG 719k physical examination
  • Pass pre-employment drug screening
  • Proficient computer skills
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 60 lbs
  • Ability to climb and descend steep stairs or ladders
  • Enter and work in tight, enclosed spaces
  • Withstand exposure to harsh environmental conditions such as rough seas, heat, rain, snow, ice, wind, and cold.
  • Live on-board in tight quarters for a full rotation
  • Drive and/or fly long distances to/from job site
  • Ability to work 84 hours a week
  • Ability to work nights, weekends and holidays
  • Subject to random drug and alcohol screenings