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Tugboat Operator Jobs in Florida (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 ...

CORE Group

Port Engineer - ATB Fleet

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$110 - $150/hr

Monitor maintenance and repair expenses, assisting with operating and capital budgets. * Ensure ... ATB, tugboat, or tank-barge experience is highly desirable. * USCG engineering license or ...

New

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 ...

L&M Botruc Rental LLC

Be Seen First

Offshore Supply Vessel Captain

Pensacola, FL · On-site

$625 - $725/day

Coast Guard Master's License appropriate for the vessel size and operating waters. Licenses may include 200 Ton, 300 Ton, 500 Ton, or 1600 Ton Master. Key Responsibilities Safely operate offshore ...

Talon Air

Global 6000 - Captain

Stuart, FL · On-site

$280K - $320K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

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 Air Cargo Group Inc

Captain 777

Orlando, FL

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 ...

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 Sep 5, 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 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.

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.

Tugboat Captain

Sea Hawk Maritime

Largo, FL • On-site

$650 - $725/day

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

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 in a marine construction or dredging environment. This Position Requires for you to have at least a 100 Ton Captain's License and Towing Endorsement.
Starting Pay for This Position: $650-725 Daily Rate. This is based on previous work experience, skills, and current certifications / professional licenses.
Work Schedule: On Rotation.
Responsibilities For the Tugboat Captain:
  • Operate a tugboat and being able to push and tow a barge(s) and dredge (s).
  • Operate in proximity of work areas to anticipate the needs of the crew and Dredge Operator.
  • Prepare tools and operate boats and equipment for crew members for the work being performed.
  • Maintain all vessel equipment in good working order and ensure that vessel is clean, well-stocked with supplies and spare parts at all times.
  • Complete Daily Boat Maintenance Log/Checklist is Mandatory
  • Comply with safety practices, rules, and regulations while performing job duties and follow company procedure in reporting unsafe conditions or practices.
  • Facilitate alignment, movement of boats, or adjustment of machinery, equipment, or materials.
  • Assist in performing maintenance as needed.
  • Assist with washing and maintaining boats and equipment in proper working order.
  • Keep work areas clean and organized.
  • Work as a team and fulfill any and all other duties and tasks as assigned.

Requirements For the Tugboat Captain:
  • A valid 100 Ton Captain's License with Towing Endorsement.
  • Dredging and / or Marine Construction Experience.
  • Must be able to travel for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to stay overnight on vessel while on rotation.
  • OSHA Certification a plus
  • Boating or Equipment Certifications a plus
  • Must be able to work outside for entire shift in all weather conditions (hot, humid, cold, wet) required
  • Be honest, hardworking, reliable, punctual and attitude to get the job done
  • Highschool diploma or GED.

Physical Demands/Work Environment of The Laborer / Site Help:
  • Physical/Sensory Functions: Regularly will use sit, use hands, talk/hear; Frequently will reach with hands; Occasionally will stand, walk, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, taste/smell.
  • Lift and/or Move Functions: Regularly will lift up to 10 pounds; Frequently will lift up to 25 pounds; Occasionally will lift up to 50 pounds.

Employee Benefits. An excellent compensation and benefits package is offered. Benefit plans include:
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Life Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Paid Time Off for Vacation, Sick and Holidays

Sea Hawk Maritime is a:
  • Drug-Free Workplace
  • Equal Opportunity Employer
  • Homeland Security- E-Verify Company. Sea Hawk Maritime will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States.

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