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Tugboats Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Blakeley BoatWorks

Marine Diesel Mechanic

Mobile, AL · On-site

The Diesel Mechanic will be responsible for the maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of diesel engines and related systems on our fleet of tugboats. This role requires a thorough understanding of ...

Dann Marine Towing

AB Tankerman

$1.3K - $1.8K/wk

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 ...

Orion Group Holdings, Inc.

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

S. Coast Guard, ships, tugboats, etc. * Be knowledgeable in the use of tie-up ropes and wires to secure the tugboat and recognizing possible problem areas. * Adapt in the proper use, donning and ...

Garney Construction

Tug Boat Operator

Buford, GA · On-site

Operate and maneuver truckable tugboats to maneuver construction barges * Maintain constant communication with barge crew members * Perform regular checks and maintenance on tugboat systems ...

Dann Marine Towing

AB Tankerman

$1.3K - $1.8K/wk

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 ...

Gulf Marine Repair

Carpenter

Tampa, FL · On-site

$20.50 - $28/hr

Offices, standard office buildings and tugboats. Must know how to install windows, joiner panels, flooring and custom trim work. Must be able to run a small team with limited supervision. ESSENTIAL ...

Twin Disc, Inc.

CNC Machinist - 2nd Shift

Racine, WI · On-site

$29.15/hr

Work on real-world applications (government, airport fire trucks, tugboats) Pay & Benefits * Competitive pay + bonus opportunities up to 6% of base pay * 401(k) with company match * Paid time off ...

Orion Marine Group

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

S. Coast Guard, ships, tugboats, etc. * Be knowledgeable in the use of tie-up ropes and wires to secure the tugboat and recognizing possible problem areas. * Adapt in the proper use, donning and ...

Schneider

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

S. Coast Guard, ships, tugboats, etc. * Be knowledgeable in the use of tie-up ropes and wires to secure the tugboat and recognizing possible problem areas. * Adapt in the proper use, donning and ...

TAS Concrete

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

S. Coast Guard, ships, tugboats, etc. * Be knowledgeable in the use of tie-up ropes and wires to secure the tugboat and recognizing possible problem areas. * Adapt in the proper use, donning and ...

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Tugboats information

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$10

$19

$26

How much do tugboats jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for tugboats in the United States is $19.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tugboat?

Tugboats are powerful, small vessels designed to maneuver larger ships by pushing or towing them in harbors, along rivers, or through narrow channels. They are essential for docking, undocking, and assisting ships that cannot move themselves in confined spaces. Tugboats are equipped with strong engines and specialized equipment to provide the necessary force and control. Their work ensures the safe and efficient movement of maritime traffic in busy ports.

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

To thrive as a Tugboat Operator, you need a strong understanding of maritime navigation, vessel handling, and safety regulations, often supported by a Merchant Mariner Credential and relevant endorsements. Proficiency with marine communication systems, navigation equipment, and modern propulsion controls is essential. Excellent situational awareness, teamwork, and decision-making skills distinguish top operators in this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe and efficient maneuvering of vessels in challenging environments and preventing accidents in busy ports or waterways.

What is the difference between Tugboats vs Marine Engineers?

AspectTugboatsMarine Engineers
CredentialsSTCW certification, maritime licensesSTCW certification, engineering licenses
Work EnvironmentOn water, near ports and shipsOn ships, in engine rooms or shipyards
Industry UsageMaritime transportation, port operationsShip operation, maintenance, and repair
Primary RoleAssist ships in docking, towingMaintain and operate ship engines

While tugboats focus on maneuvering ships and assisting with docking, marine engineers are responsible for maintaining and repairing the ship's engines and systems. Both roles require maritime certifications and work in the maritime industry, but tugboats are more involved in on-water operations, whereas marine engineers work primarily onboard ships or in shipyards.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a tugboat crew member?

Crew members on tugboats handle a variety of daily tasks including assisting with docking and undocking larger vessels, maintaining and operating towing equipment, conducting safety inspections, and performing routine maintenance on the boat. They also monitor communication channels for instructions from harbor authorities and ensure safe navigation. Collaboration with pilots, port staff, and other vessel crews is common to coordinate movements efficiently and safely.

How to get hired on a tugboat?

To get hired on a tugboat, candidates typically need a valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a towing endorsement, relevant maritime experience, and completion of safety training such as STCW certification. Prior experience in maritime operations and physical fitness are also important, and many employers require a background check and drug testing before hiring.
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Tugboats jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tugboats job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 3% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,659 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Marine Diesel Mechanic

Blakeley BoatWorks

Mobile, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Description:

Situated on 26 acres, Blakeley BoatWorks is a full-service shipyard focused on new construction and marine repair projects. With our 1,900-short-ton capacity floating dry dock and a 660-short-ton Travelift, Blakeley BoatWorks has a professional and skilled workforce who is committed to the highest standards of quality and safety.


The Diesel Mechanic will be responsible for the maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of diesel engines and related systems on our fleet of tugboats. This role requires a thorough understanding of marine diesel engines, hydraulic systems, and other associated equipment. The ideal candidate will be a proactive problem-solver with a strong commitment to safety and quality workmanship.


The ideal candidates will be:

  • Skilled in working on the following makes of engines: EMD, Caterpillar, John Deere, Cummins
  • Competent in troubleshooting engine problems on above makes of engine such as, excessive smoke, low power, engine vibrations associated with internal engine failure, fuel systems, electronic control systems
  • Capable of performing repairs to major engine components on a time frame that meets customer requirements
  • Capable of performing major in frame overhauls in a time frame that meets industry standards
  • Competent in service of main bearings, gear train assemblies. cylinder packs, cylinder heads, turbo chargers etc.
  • Competent in rigging to lift engines for major service work
  • Willing to work overtime to repair customer vessels as each individual job requires
  • Capable of leading a team in performing all above task
Requirements:

Requirements include:

  • Experience working on diesel engines in a marine environment
  • Must be available for on-call and weekend work

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