Job Description

Construction Tug Boat Captain

For more than 100 years, Zachry Construction Corporation has been shaping America's infrastructure from highways and bridges to major civil projects that connect communities and strengthen our nation. As a family-owned company, we've built our reputation on integrity, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to our people.

At Zachry, you're not just joining a construction company, you're joining a family that values hard work, teamwork, and doing the right thing because it's the right thing to do. We're looking for dedicated individuals who are ready to grow their careers and make a lasting impact.

Our Core Values guide everything we do: Every Person Matters, Together We Can Do Great Things, This Is More Than a Job.

Position Summary

The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of tug boats and marine vessels supporting heavy civil, bridge, dredging, marine construction, and barge operations. This role oversees vessel navigation, crew leadership, equipment coordination, and compliance with all applicable maritime, Coast Guard, OSHA, and company safety requirements.

The Captain works closely with project management, crane operators, barge crews, and field supervision to safely maneuver barges, transport materials and equipment, assist with marine construction activities, and maintain operational readiness of vessels and marine assets.

What You'll Do

• Safely operate tug boats and support vessels in rivers, lakes, channels, ports, and inland waterways
• Maneuver and position construction barges, crane barges, sectional barges, and material barges
• Assist with towing operations, spud barge positioning, anchor handling, and fleet movements
• Monitor weather, currents, water elevations, and marine traffic conditions
• Conduct vessel inspections before, during, and after operations
• Ensure compliance with USCG regulations, OSHA requirements, Inland Navigation Rules, and company marine safety plans
• Conduct Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs) and toolbox talks
• Supervise deckhands and marine crew members
• Coordinate vessel activities with project managers, crane operators, and construction supervision
• Train crew members on marine safety, emergency response, and operational procedures
• Monitor tug engines, fuel systems, hydraulics, pumps, and electrical systems
• Coordinate vessel maintenance and repairs
• Maintain vessel logs, inspection reports, and fuel records
• Support marine construction operations including bridge construction, dredging, pile driving, and heavy lifts
• Assist with emergency response and recovery operations as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned

This job summary is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required.

What We're Looking For

• Strong vessel handling and towing experience
• Knowledge of inland waterways and marine navigation practices
• Understanding of barge configurations and fleet management
• Experience reading river conditions, currents, weather, and water elevations
• Marine construction experience preferred
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and maintain situational awareness
• Basic mechanical troubleshooting skills
• Proficiency with marine radio communications
• Knowledge of marine rigging and towing systems
• Understanding of lock and dam procedures
• Familiarity with navigation electronics and radar systems
• Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather conditions
• Ability to climb ladders, board vessels, and work on uneven surfaces
• Ability to lift equipment and perform physical labor as needed

Preferred Certifications & Licenses

• Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)
• Master of Towing Vessels License
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification
• CPR / First Aid Certification

Why You'll Love Working with Us

At Zachry, we invest in our people because they're the foundation of our success. We're proud to offer career growth opportunities, long-term stability, and a culture built on trust and respect.

Our Industry-Leading Benefits Include

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• 401(k) with 6% dollar-for-dollar company match, Paid Time Off, and an annual Performance Bonus Program
• Company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for you and your family
• Opportunities for training, professional development, and advancement

Zachry Construction Corporation performs heavy civil and building work throughout the United States. Relocation may be required for ongoing opportunities and career growth.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

We do not sponsor or transfer sponsorship of an employment visa at this time. We do not interview or hire students in F-1 or J-1 status and will not sponsor them for work visas.

To learn more about our legacy and projects, visit

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