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Tugboat Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... machinery, operating systems, construction, and maintenance of the vessels working gear ... Tugboat Master is the "person in charge" making all decisions necessary to assess, control ...

Tugboat Coverage Master

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$51.25 - $68.25/hr

... machinery, operating systems, construction, and maintenance of the vessels working gear ... Tugboat Master is the "person in charge" making all decisions necessary to assess, control ...

Mate

Kenai, AK · On-site

The Mate position supervises and coordinates activities of crew aboard tugboat. Essential Duties ... Experience in operating vessel in Alaska is preferred * Near Coastal routes preferred

Naval Architect

Seattle, WA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

We specialize in constructing commercial vessels for the fishing industry, government agencies, tugboat operators, aquaculture businesses, and more. In addition to vessel construction, we provide ...

GARNEY As a Tug Boat Operator in Buford, GA at Garney Construction, you will be responsible for the ... Perform regular checks and maintenance on tugboat systems, including engines, navigation equipment ...

GARNEY As a Tug Boat Operator in Buford, GA at Garney Construction, you will be responsible for the ... Perform regular checks and maintenance on tugboat systems, including engines, navigation equipment ...

Is, a sixth-generation family owned and operated tugboat company, managing a fleet of 24 ocean going tugboats and inland push boats. Our vessels range in horsepower from 1100 H.P. to 6200 H.P. The ...

If such is the case, the Harbor/Port Tugboat Pilot must ensure that adequate corrective action is taken and must not proceed until it is safe to do so. * Ensure the vessel is operated safely and ...

If such is the case, the Harbor/Port Tugboat Pilot must ensure that adequate corrective action is taken and must not proceed until it is safe to do so. * Ensure the vessel is operated safely and ...

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Tugboat Operator information

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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?

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.

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:
Infographic showing various Tugboat Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $50,869 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Tug Boat Captain

Tug Boat Captain

Vulcan Materials Company

Prince George, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Vulcan Materials rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

297th of 512 rated manufacturers


Job description

Build Your Career. Build America's Future.
Vulcan Materials Company is the nation's largest producer of construction aggregates and a major producer of aggregate-based construction materials, including asphalt and ready-mixed concrete. Joining Vulcan is more than starting an exciting career-you get to make a difference for millions of people every day across the country.
When you join Vulcan, you join a dynamic culture in which career development is encouraged, excellence is rewarded, and diversity is valued. No matter the role or the location across the country, every member of the Vulcan team lives through the Vulcan Way: doing the right thing, the right way, at the right time .
Job Overview :
We are seeking an experienced Harbor Tug Boat Captain to join our team. The captain will be responsible for maneuvering and shifting barges carrying construction aggregates (stone, sand, and gravel) in harbor and terminal operations. This role requires strong leadership skills to manage crew members effectively, ensuring efficient and safe vessel operations in compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations and company policies.
What You'll Do:
Harbor Tug Operations: Safely operate and navigate the tugboat to shift, dock, and undock barges in confined harbor and terminal environments.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensure adherence to USCG regulations, safety procedures, and company policies, including record-keeping and reporting requirements.
Crew Leadership: Direct and supervise crew members, oversee performance, and conduct weekly crew safety training.
Pre-Shift Inspections & Maintenance Oversight: Conduct pre-voyage inspections, monitor vessel performance, and coordinate routine maintenance to ensure the vessel remains in top working condition.
Barge Handling & Mooring: Oversee and assist in securing barges at loading and offloading facilities, ensuring proper handling and positioning.
Communication & Reporting: Maintain accurate logbooks, reports, and real-time communication with dispatch and company leadership.
Emergency Response: Respond to onboard mechanical issues or emergency situations as needed.
Champion Safety. Per MSHA, OSHA, and Vulcan standards, take an active role in prioritizing safety for yourself and others throughout the operation at all times. Maintain responsibility for the safe and efficient day-to-day operation of the harbor vessel and crew.
Qualifications
Skills and Qualifications You'll Need :
Minimum 200-Ton Master of Towing USCG-issued License with radar endorsement (Required).
Experience operating a tugboat in harbors, rivers, and bays.
Strong understanding of barge maneuvering, mooring, and dockside operations.
Proficiency in navigating shallow waters and maneuvering a tug with a tow through bridges.
Strong leadership and team management skills.
Ability to work in physically demanding conditions and respond to emergencies effectively.
What You'll Like About Us :
Great Company Culture. Our people share a competitive drive for excellence in an environment of trust, teamwork, open-mindedness, and communication.
Safe. Industry leader in health and safety standards. We are committed to creating a safe work environment and protecting all employees and customers.
Meaningful Work. What sets us apart is that our work impacts daily lives - and every employee contributes.Our aggregates produced are used to build roads, schools, hospitals, airports, and housing throughout the United States .
Health Benefits. Medical, Dental, and Vision programs, plus much more .
Rest and Relaxation. Paid vacation, personal floating days, and paid holidays.
Prepare for the Future. 401(k) with company match and contribution.
Training and Development. We see our development programs and helping our employees meet their goals as critical to our business.
Hourly Range:the hourly range for this role is between $30.00- $40.00. This range is not inclusive of our discretionary bonus or equity package. When determining a candidate's compensation, we consider a number of factors, including skillset, experience, job scope, and current market data.
Vulcan Materials Company is committed to employing a diverse workforce. You will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability. You also have the right to be free from discrimination for medical needs arising from pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.
NOTICE TO TEMPORARY STAFFING AGENCIES, PLACEMENT SERVICES, AND PROFESSIONAL RECRUITERS: Vulcan Materials Company has an internal recruiting department. Please review our policy regarding using temporary staffing agencies, placement services, and professional recruiters.

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