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Tugboat 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 ...

Beyel Brothers

Tugboat Captain

Merritt Island, FL · On-site

TUGBOAT CAPTAIN OCEANS W/MASTER OF TOWING ENDORSEMENT At Beyel Brothers, we're dedicated to excellence in crane operations, rigging, heavy haulage, and marine transport. Our mission is to lead with ...

Beyel Brothers

Tugboat Captain

Merritt Island, FL · On-site

TUGBOAT CAPTAIN OCEANS W/MASTER OF TOWING ENDORSEMENT At Beyel Brothers, we're dedicated to excellence in crane operations, rigging, heavy haulage, and marine transport. Our mission is to lead with ...

Beyel Brothers

Tugboat Captain

Merritt Island, FL · On-site

TUGBOAT CAPTAIN OCEANS W/MASTER OF TOWING ENDORSEMENT At Beyel Brothers, we're dedicated to excellence in crane operations, rigging, heavy haulage, and marine transport. Our mission is to lead with ...

Beyel Brothers

TUGBOAT ENGINEER

Merritt Island, FL · On-site

Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC) TWIC Badge US Passport At least 3 years of experience as a tugboat engineer or similar. Rotation: 28 Days on duty, 14 days off Beyel Brothers is proud to be an EEO ...

Beyel Brothers

TUGBOAT ENGINEER

Merritt Island, FL · On-site

Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC) TWIC Badge US Passport At least 3 years of experience as a tugboat engineer or similar. Rotation: 28 Days on duty, 14 days off Beyel Brothers is proud to be an EEO ...

Beyel Brothers

TUGBOAT ENGINEER

Merritt Island, FL

Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC) TWIC Badge US Passport At least 3 years of experience as a tugboat engineer or similar. Rotation: 28 Days on duty, 14 days off Beyel Brothers is proud to be an EEO ...

Antillean Line

Deckhand (Non-liveaboard)

Miami, FL · On-site

The Deckhand is responsible for assisting in the safe operation, maintenance, and upkeep of the tugboat and its equipment. The role requires physical endurance, teamwork, and adherence to safety ...

National Airlines

Captain 777

Orlando, FL · On-site

Description: National Airlines, based in Orlando, FL, operates a fleet of B747 and A330 aircraft to provide customers with a broad array of domestic and international operations. National Airlines ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Captain's Assistant

Miami, FL · On-site

Overview M.C. Dean is seeking a Captain's Assistant. This position reports to the Ship Captain and has responsibility for the operation and safety of vessel(s) during an assigned shift, maintenance ...

Offshore Staffing

Captain

Stuart, FL · On-site

G650ER Captain Position OSI - Aviation Recruitment is seeking one (1) skilled and experienced G650ER Captain to join our client's team. As a G650 Pilot, you will be responsible for safely operating ...

Offshore Staffing

G550 - Captain - 91/135

Stuart, FL · On-site

G550 Captain OSI - Aviation Recruitment is seeking one (1) skilled and experienced G550 Captain to join our client's team. As a G550 Pilot, you will be responsible for safely operating aircraft and ...

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All JobsTugboat JobsTugboat Jobs in Florida

Tugboat information

See Florida salary details

$14.2K

$77.8K

$135.6K

How much do tugboat jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for tugboat in Florida is $77,836.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,600.00 and $95,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tugboat?

A tugboat job involves operating or assisting in the operation of tugboats, which are small but powerful vessels used to maneuver larger ships in harbors, rivers, and other confined waters. Crew members may work as captains, deckhands, or engineers, ensuring safe navigation, towing, and docking operations. Responsibilities vary but often include maintaining the vessel, securing tow lines, and assisting with navigation. Tugboat jobs require physical fitness, maritime training, and certifications, depending on the role.

What does a tugboat operator do?

A typical day for a tugboat operator involves assisting ships in docking and undocking, towing barges or other vessels, and navigating busy harbors under various weather and sea conditions. You might operate in coastal ports, rivers, or busy shipping lanes, interacting closely with harbor pilots and other maritime professionals to coordinate safe maneuvers. Assignments can vary, from moving massive container ships to transporting materials along inland waterways, each with its own set of challenges and responsibilities. Tugboat operators often work in rotating shifts, including nights and weekends, and the work environment requires constant vigilance and quick decision-making. This dynamic role offers exposure to different types of vessels and situations, contributing to valuable experience and potential advancement into senior marine positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tugboat operator?

To thrive as a Tugboat Operator, you generally need strong navigational skills, mechanical aptitude, and a valid merchant mariner credential such as a U.S. Coast Guard license. Experience with marine communication equipment, towing winches, and vessel maneuvering systems is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and adaptability are key soft skills, especially when working in changing weather or port conditions. These skills ensure operational safety, efficient vessel handling, and effective coordination with harbor and ship crews.

How to get hired on a tugboat?

To get hired as a tugboat crew member, candidates typically need relevant maritime certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential and experience in boat handling. Physical fitness, safety training, and knowledge of navigation and vessel operations are also important for employment in this field.

Is working on a tugboat worth it?

Working as a tugboat operator involves handling vessels that assist with maneuvering ships in ports and harbors, often requiring certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential. The job can be physically demanding and involves working in challenging weather conditions, but it offers competitive pay and opportunities for advancement in maritime industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tugboat jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Tugboat jobs in Florida are:

What are popular job titles related to Tugboat jobs in Florida?

For Tugboat jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tugboat jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Tugboat jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Tugboat jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Tugboat job openings:

Tugboat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tugboat job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,836 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

Tugboat Captain

Largo, FL • On-site

Sea Hawk Maritime
See more jobs at Sea Hawk Maritimeexternal

$650 - $725/day

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 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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