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Union Tugboat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PacifiCorp

Fish Transporter/Hydro Utility Worker

Ariel, WA · On-site

$37.30/hr

... tugboat for the purpose of removing log debris on the reservoirs, and positioning log booms and ... For union employees, matching contributions vary by union. For nonunion, PacifiCorp makes a fixed ...

PacifiCorp

Fish Transporter/Hydro Utility Worker

WA · On-site

$37.30/hr

... tugboat for the purpose of removing log debris on the reservoirs, and positioning log booms and ... For union employees, matching contributions vary by union. For nonunion, PacifiCorp makes a fixed ...

Foss Maritime

Abled Bodied Seafarer - Oceans

Seattle, WA · On-site

$480/day

A minimum of 1 year of operational experience with working on deck of a tugboat preferred. * Must join the IBU (Inland Boatman's Union) within 30 days of hire. What We Offer * Pay for this position ...

All JobsUnion Tugboat Jobs

Union Tugboat information

See salary details

$19K

$104.2K

$181.5K

How much do union tugboat jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for union 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 does a typical work schedule look like for a Union Tugboat crew member?

Union Tugboat crew members often work in rotating shifts, such as a set number of days on duty followed by scheduled days off, which can vary depending on the employer and the type of operations (harbor, coastal, or river towing). Shifts may last 12 hours or even require living onboard for extended periods while the tug is in service, so flexibility and readiness for long hours are essential. Crew members work closely with a small team, typically under the supervision of a captain, and collaborate with port personnel and vessel operators. This schedule ensures that tugboat operations continue around the clock to support shipping and harbor activities.

What is a Union Tugboat job?

A Union Tugboat job involves working on a tugboat that is operated under a labor union contract. Crew members, such as captains, mates, engineers, and deckhands, assist with towing, docking, and guiding vessels in harbors, rivers, and coastal waters. Union jobs typically offer better wages, benefits, and job security compared to non-union positions. Responsibilities vary by role but often include navigation, maintenance, and ensuring safety at sea.

How much does it pay to work on a tugboat?

Workers on tugboats typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the region. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced crew members with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and hazard pay.

Is there a tugboat union?

Yes, tugboat operators often belong to maritime unions such as the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) or the Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association (MEBA). These unions advocate for wages, safety standards, and working conditions in the maritime industry. Membership typically requires meeting experience and certification requirements related to maritime safety and navigation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Union Tugboat position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Union Tugboat crew member, you need strong seamanship skills, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supported by specialized maritime training. Proficiency with navigation systems, towing equipment, and holding a valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and other U.S. Coast Guard certifications is crucial. Effective communication, teamwork, and the ability to adapt to rapidly changing situations help distinguish exceptional candidates. These skills ensure safety, operational efficiency, and successful coordination in the demanding maritime environment.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the context of a union tugboat operator, high earnings can be achieved through seniority, overtime, and specialized certifications, with top earners potentially making around $200,000 to $300,000 annually. Jobs paying $500,000 or more typically include executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs, but such salaries are uncommon in maritime or union roles without additional factors. Most maritime jobs, including tugboat operators, do not reach the $500,000 annual salary level on standard pay scales.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A union tugboat captain or experienced deckhand can earn around $4,000 weekly, especially with overtime and union benefits. These roles typically require maritime certifications, extensive experience, and working in demanding environments such as ports or offshore locations. High-paying maritime jobs often prioritize skills and experience over formal degrees.
More about Union Tugboat jobs
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Union Tugboat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Union Tugboat job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 3% Internship, 35% As Needed, 5% Full Time, 34% Contract, and 22% Nights. Highlights an 5% Physical, 94% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,157 per year, or $50.1 per hour.
Engine Utility

Engine Utility

Crowley Maritime Corporation

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Overview

Overview

As a privately held, U.S.-owned and operated company, Crowley provides services to 36 nations and island territories. Our purpose is to bravely advance what's possible to elevate people and planet, with our core values of Integrity, Sustainability and Drive guiding everything we do.

By expanding and innovating our services, we have expanded our footprint in services within the Logistics, Land Transportation, Shipping, Wind and Fuel industries. Crowley and its affiliated companies have generated more than $3.5 billion in annual revenue through our people's focus on excellence and a culture that values everyone's voices and collaboration. 

To continue laying the groundwork and challenge what's possible for our business, we seek to partner with individuals ready to elevate their careers with us

ABOUT US: A key role with the largest Jones Act employer with a diverse fleet of vessels. 

All employees have the opportunity to join the Mariner Employee Resource Group; which is focused on creating a safe, inclusive, and diverse workforce.


Responsibilities

Responsibilities: Crowley is actively hiring a Utility Engineer on our ship assist tug in San Diego. This position requires membership with Seasfarers International Union. 


Qualifications

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications and Credentials:

  • STCW endorsements to match license including but not limited to OICEW, RFPEW, BT, PSC, Adv FF, VPDSD 
  • Designated Duty Engineer 
  • Candidate must have all medical and regulatory training requirements/classes satisfied 
  • Current and valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential 
  • Current and valid Passport - must be able to travel internationally with no felonies, DUI, or other convictions which would restrict entry into Canada or other nations 


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Chief Engineer Unlimited, Chief Limited, First Assistant Engineer, Second Assistant Engineer, Third Assistant Engineer, or Assistant Engineer Limited  
  • Electo-Technical Officer 
  • Caterpillar, ABB and Corvus electrical equipment experience (job requires candidate to operate and maintain the systems aboard the fully electric ship assist tugboat eWolf after a reasonable training period) 

Minimum Experience

  • Experience as an Engineer aboard towing vessel  
  • Demonstrated knowledge of current electronically controlled engines and control system 
  • Experience and ability to troubleshoot and make repairs to ships operating systems such as main engine, propulsion, generator, hydraulics, pumps and electrical 
  • Basic skill level operating a Windows computer 
  • Safety minded self-starter, able to work independently as well as with other crew members 
  • Take pride in craftsmanship and in maintaining their vessel to high company standards 

Expectation:

  • Must have the ability to report to work within 2 hours of notification while on call 
  • Training competencies and assessments as set forth by port cap/eng 

Probation: 90 workings days  

Compensation: As per CBA 

Geographic Area: San Diego Harbor 

Qualifications:

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications and Credentials:

  • STCW endorsements to match license including but not limited to OICEW, RFPEW, BT, PSC, Adv FF, VPDSD 
  • Designated Duty Engineer 
  • Candidate must have all medical and regulatory training requirements/classes satisfied 
  • Current and valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential 
  • Current and valid Passport - must be able to travel internationally with no felonies, DUI, or other convictions which would restrict entry into Canada or other nations 


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Chief Engineer Unlimited, Chief Limited, First Assistant Engineer, Second Assistant Engineer, Third Assistant Engineer, or Assistant Engineer Limited  
  • Electo-Technical Officer 
  • Caterpillar, ABB and Corvus electrical equipment experience (job requires candidate to operate and maintain the systems aboard the fully electric ship assist tugboat eWolf after a reasonable training period) 

Minimum Experience

  • Experience as an Engineer aboard towing vessel  
  • Demonstrated knowledge of current electronically controlled engines and control system 
  • Experience and ability to troubleshoot and make repairs to ships operating systems such as main engine, propulsion, generator, hydraulics, pumps and electrical 
  • Basic skill level operating a Windows computer 
  • Safety minded self-starter, able to work independently as well as with other crew members 
  • Take pride in craftsmanship and in maintaining their vessel to high company standards 

Expectation:

  • Must have the ability to report to work within 2 hours of notification while on call 
  • Training competencies and assessments as set forth by port cap/eng 

Probation: 90 workings days  

Compensation: As per CBA 

Geographic Area: San Diego Harbor 

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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