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Tugboat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Next Gen Logistics

Tugboat Mate

New Orleans, LA · Remote

$36.75 - $40.50/hr

Tugboat Mate Your New Company: YOUR COMPASS TO SUCCESS! At NGL Companies we are committed to workplace safety. We are a trusted maritime transportation, construction and logistics company providing ...

Next Generation Logistics LLC

Tugboat Mate

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$34.50 - $38/hr

Tugboat Mate Your New Company: YOUR COMPASS TO SUCCESS! At NGL Companies we are committed to workplace safety. We are a trusted maritime transportation, construction and logistics company providing ...

Robbins Maritime Inc

Tugboat Captain

Norfolk, VA

$725/day

If you are a dedicated and an experienced Tugboat Captain looking to join a dynamic team, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your application on our website using the following link ...

Next Generation Logistics LLC

Tugboat Mate

Lake Charles, LA · On-site

$33 - $36.25/hr

Tugboat Mate Your New Company: YOUR COMPASS TO SUCCESS! At NGL Companies we are committed to workplace safety. We are a trusted maritime transportation, construction and logistics company providing ...

Robbins Maritime Inc

Tugboat Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$725/day

If you are a dedicated and an experienced Tugboat Captain looking to join a dynamic team, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your application on our website using the following link ...

Robbins Maritime Inc

Tugboat Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$725/day

If you are a dedicated and an experienced Tugboat Captain looking to join a dynamic team, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your application on our website using the following link ...

41 North Offshore, LLC

Be Seen First

Tugboat Deckhand

New Bedford, MA · On-site

MMC, TWIC, STCW Company Description Established in 2011 with a single tugboat, 41° North Offshore, LLC has grown into a full service provider of marine towing, transportation and support services.

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 ...

41 North Offshore, LLC

Be Seen First

Tugboat Mate

New Bedford, MA · On-site

$36.50 - $40/hr

MMC, TWIC, STCW, Mate of Towing Endorsement Company Description Established in 2011 with a single tugboat, 41° North Offshore, LLC has grown into a full service provider of marine towing ...

Robbins Maritime Inc

Tugboat Engineer

Norfolk, VA

$300 - $350/day

If you are a dedicated and experienced Tugboat Engineer looking to join a dynamic team, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your application on our website using the following link ...

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$104.2K

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How much do tugboat jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for tugboat in the United States is $104,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $128,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Tugboat job?

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 typical day look like for a tugboat operator and what kinds of vessels or assignments might they encounter?

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 in the Tugboat position, and why are they important?

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.

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Tugboat jobs near you
Tugboat Deckhand

Tugboat Deckhand

Next Generation Logistics LLC

New Orleans, LA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Tugboat Deckhand
Your New Company:
YOUR COMPASS TO SUCCESS
At Next Generation Logistics Companies, we are committed to workplace safety.
We are a trusted maritime transportation, construction and logistics company providing our services on both land and sea.
Our customers choose us because we continually surpass their expectations.
Next Gen's mission is to become each industry's service company of choice by providing value-added business solutions delivered with integrity, professionalism and a commitment to individual safety and environmental responsibility.
Next Gen sets the benchmark for quality and reliable operations. It provides safe, responsible, reliable, and efficient service to our customers. We adhere to our quality systems framework, which is the keystone of our success.
Your new role:
Next Generation Logistics Companies is looking for a full-time, Tugboat Deckhand working on a tugboat vessel. As a Deckhand at NGL Companies, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of our vessels. You will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to, maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the vessel, assisting with navigation and mooring operations, and performing routine maintenance tasks. Your attention to detail and ability to work well under pressure will be essential in this role. You will work closely with the captain, and other crew members to ensure that all tasks are completed in a timely and efficient manner.
Responsibilities:
  • Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the vessel
  • Assist with navigation and mooring operations
  • Perform routine maintenance tasks
  • Assist with the loading and unloading of cargo
  • Handles mooring lines and rigging.
  • Ensure that safety equipment is utilized, and appropriate guidelines are followed for all tasks involving physical risk or hazardous materials.
  • Develop understanding of all phases of shipboard safety procedures and knowledge of location and use of all firefighting and safety equipment (i.e. fire extinguishers; fire stations; life preservers; work vest; and life floats).
  • Participate in meetings; training; drills and safety audits as required by Customer and Company policy.
  • Must possess a strong desire to provide excellent customer service solutions and interact with coworkers and clients in a courteous and professional manner.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Minimum of one (1) year of tugboat experience as a deckhand required.
  • Familiarity with vessel navigation and safety procedures.
  • Mechanical aptitude is a must.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills required.
  • Ability to operate small boats and other vessel equipment.
  • Military experience preferred. Coast Guard or Navy experience highly desired.

Credentials:
  • Merchant Marine credential as an ordinary seaman; highly desired.
  • You must have a valid TWIC Card.

Physical Demands:
You must be able to lift up to 75 pounds and be able to stand and walk for prolonged amounts of time. Must be able to twist, bend and squat periodically. Willingness to work long hours and in varying weather conditions. The individual must also be able to wear and properly utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to work or visit within areas where it is required.
What you will get in return:
  • Competitive salary DOE
  • Opportunity to grow with an industry leader
  • Great benefits plan
  • 401k with match

COMPETITIVE SALARY COMMENSURATE WITH EXPERIENCE AVAILABLE TO QUALIFIED CANDIDATES. EMPLOYMENT OFFERS ARE CONTINGENT UPON A REVIEW OF REFERENCES, SATISFACTORY COMPLETION OF A DRUG SCREEN, AND ANALYSIS OF FULL BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS.
Next Generation Logistics is an equal-opportunity employer. Next Generation Logistics does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business need.

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