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Union Tugboat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Crowley Maritime Corporation

2ND MATE

Anchorage, AK

$24.75 - $27.50/hr

This position does require the candidate to join the United Steelworkers union as part of their ... Western Alaska Tugboat experience * Multi-Cargo Barge experience * Tankerman PIC/Assist * OICNW ...

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 ...

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 ...

CRH

Towboat Captain

Kansas City, MO · On-site

Expand your skills in a dynamic, union-supported environment that values your expertise and encourages continuous learning. * Stability: Be part of a respected company with a long-standing reputation ...

CRH

Towboat Captain

Randolph, MO

Expand your skills in a dynamic, union-supported environment that values your expertise and encourages continuous learning. * Stability: Be part of a respected company with a long-standing reputation ...

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 Aug 5, 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?

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?

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.

What skills and qualifications are needed for a union tugboat?

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.

How to get hired on a union tugboat?

To get hired on a union tugboat, candidates typically need relevant maritime experience, a valid US Coast Guard license such as a Merchant Mariner Credential, and completion of safety training like STCW certification. Applying through union hiring halls or maritime employment agencies and demonstrating strong seamanship skills are essential steps in the process.
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What cities are hiring for Union Tugboat jobs? Cities with the most Union Tugboat job openings:
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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, 2% Internship, 30% As Needed, 5% Full Time, 40% Contract, and 22% Nights. Highlights an 4% Physical, 95% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,157 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

2ND MATE

Crowley Maritime Corporation

Anchorage, AK

$24.75 - $27.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

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. Crowley Fuels delivers clean petroleum products across remote Alaska, supplying communities, construction projects, government operations, and the commercial fishing industry. Our specialized tugs and barges, operated by skilled local mariners, allow us to reach challenging, shallow, and otherwise inaccessible areas to keep homes, businesses, and essential services powered across the state.

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 for an Second Mate in our Western Alaska Crowley Fuels tug and barge fleet. This position is a great fit for someone looking for adventure! Have you ever wanted to see a walrus or a polar bear at work? This is your chance! The Western Alaska fleet operates on a seasonal basis from approximately April through November or about 150 days. Check out this short video to learn more about our Western Alaska and Arctic operations.

This position does require the candidate to join the United Steelworkers union as part of their onboarding after accepting a job offer.


Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications and Credentials

  • Mate 500GT Near Coastal
  • Towing Officer Assessment Record (TOAR)
  • Officer in Charge of Navigational Watch (OICNW)
  • STCW with all required endorsements
  • Valid TWIC
  • Valid Passport - must be able to travel internationally with no felonies, DUI, or other convictions which would restrict entry into Canada or other nations.
  • Working Knowledge of LNG Cargo Operations

Preferred Qualifications & Skills

  • Western Alaska Tugboat experience
  • Multi-Cargo Barge experience
  • Tankerman PIC/Assist
  • OICNW, Basic Polar Code
  • Mate Towing Near Coastal or complete TOAR
  • Current RADAR/ARPA, FCC, Advanced FF
  • ECDIS

Hitch

  • Seasonal (April - November)

Travel costs covered!

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications and Credentials

  • Mate 500GT Near Coastal
  • Towing Officer Assessment Record (TOAR)
  • Officer in Charge of Navigational Watch (OICNW)
  • STCW with all required endorsements
  • Valid TWIC
  • Valid Passport - must be able to travel internationally with no felonies, DUI, or other convictions which would restrict entry into Canada or other nations.
  • Working Knowledge of LNG Cargo Operations

Preferred Qualifications & Skills

  • Western Alaska Tugboat experience
  • Multi-Cargo Barge experience
  • Tankerman PIC/Assist
  • OICNW, Basic Polar Code
  • Mate Towing Near Coastal or complete TOAR
  • Current RADAR/ARPA, FCC, Advanced FF
  • ECDIS

Hitch

  • Seasonal (April - November)

Travel costs covered!

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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