The Tugboat Captain or Mate is responsible for the safe navigation, operation, and management of towing vessels engaged in inland, near-coastal, and offshore operations. This position ensures compliance with all applicable federal regulations, company policies, and safety management procedures while maintaining the highest standards of seamanship and professionalism.
Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesNavigation & Vessel Operations
- Safely navigate towing vessels in accordance with the Inland and International Rules of the Road.
- Conduct voyage planning, risk assessments, and pre-departure safety checks.
- Monitor weather, tides, currents, and navigational hazards.
- Maintain safe control of tow configurations, including pushing, towing astern, hip towing, and alongside operations.
- Ensure safe transit through bridges, locks, channels, and congested waterways.
- Operate vessel navigation and communication equipment.
Crew Management
- Supervise and direct deckhands and vessel personnel.
- Conduct safety meetings and vessel drills.
- Train crew members in line handling, towing operations, firefighting, damage control, and emergency procedures.
- Promote a culture of safety and professionalism onboard.
Safety & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with:
- USCG regulations
- Subchapter M requirements
- Company Safety Management System (SMS)
- Environmental regulations
- Conduct routine vessel inspections and safety audits.
- Maintain accurate logs, records, and reports.
- Report incidents, near misses, and equipment deficiencies.
Towing Operations
- Direct vessel make-up and break-up procedures.
- Oversee rigging, towing gear inspections, and tow connections.
- Monitor tow condition throughout the voyage.
- Execute emergency tow recovery and tow-parting procedures when necessary.
Maintenance
- Perform routine inspections of:
- Towing equipment
- Navigation systems
- Safety equipment
- Deck machinery
- Report maintenance needs to company management.
- Assist engineering personnel with vessel upkeep when required.
Emergency Response
- Lead emergency responses involving:
- Fire
- Flooding
- Grounding
- Collision
- Man overboard
- Tow emergencies
- Coordinate communications with company personnel and emergency responders.
Captain Qualifications
- Valid USCG Master of Towing Vessels License (appropriate route)
- Valid TWIC Card
- Current Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)
- Valid Medical Certificate
- Radar Observer Endorsement (if applicable)
- Minimum 3 years towing vessel experience preferred
- Strong knowledge of towing operations and vessel management
Mate Qualifications
- Valid USCG Mate (Pilot) of Towing Vessels Endorsement
- Valid TWIC Card
- Current Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)
- Valid Medical Certificate
- Minimum 2 years towing vessel experience preferred
- Ability to stand navigation watch independently
Work Schedule
- Rotational schedules as assigned.
- Inland, near-coastal, and offshore assignments.
- Extended periods away from home may be required.
- Must be available for emergency call-outs when necessary.
Preferred Skills
- Strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Experience with towing vessel safety management systems.
- Knowledge of Subchapter M compliance requirements.
- Experience operating in busy ports and waterways.
Seaward Marine Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing a safe and professional work environment for all employees.
Pay: $550.00 - $850.00 per day
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Relocation assistance
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
