Tug Boat Captain at Vulcan Materials Company in Prince George, VA

Build Your Career. Build America’s Future.

Vulcan Materials Company is the nation’s largest producer of construction aggregates and a major producer of aggregate-based construction materials, including asphalt and ready-mixed concrete. Joining Vulcan is more than starting an exciting career—you get to make a difference for millions of people every day across the country.

When you join Vulcan, you join a dynamic culture in which career development is encouraged, excellence is rewarded, and diversity is valued. No matter the role or the location across the country, every member of the Vulcan team lives through the Vulcan Way: doing the right thing, the right way, at the right time.

Job Overview:

We are seeking an experienced Harbor Tug Boat Captain to join our team. The captain will be responsible for maneuvering and shifting barges carrying construction aggregates (stone, sand, and gravel) in harbor and terminal operations. This role requires strong leadership skills to manage crew members effectively, ensuring efficient and safe vessel operations in compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations and company policies.

What You’ll Do:

Harbor Tug Operations: Safely operate and navigate the tugboat to shift, dock, and undock barges in confined harbor and terminal environments.

Regulatory Compliance: Ensure adherence to USCG regulations, safety procedures, and company policies, including record-keeping and reporting requirements.

Crew Leadership: Direct and supervise crew members, oversee performance, and conduct weekly crew safety training.

Pre-Shift Inspections & Maintenance Oversight: Conduct pre-voyage inspections, monitor vessel performance, and coordinate routine maintenance to ensure the vessel remains in top working condition.

Barge Handling & Mooring: Oversee and assist in securing barges at loading and offloading facilities, ensuring proper handling and positioning.

Communication & Reporting: Maintain accurate logbooks, reports, and real-time communication with dispatch and company leadership.

Emergency Response: Respond to onboard mechanical issues or emergency situations as needed.

Champion Safety. Per MSHA, OSHA, and Vulcan standards, take an active role in prioritizing safety for yourself and others throughout the operation at all times. Maintain responsibility for the safe and efficient day-to-day operation of the harbor vessel and crew.

Responsibilities

Skills andQualificationsYou’ll Need:

Minimum 200-Ton Master of Towing USCG-issued License with radar endorsement (Required).

Experience operating a tugboat in harbors, rivers, and bays.

Strong understanding of barge maneuvering, mooring, and dockside operations.

Proficiency in navigating shallow waters and maneuvering a tug with a tow through bridges.

Strong leadership and team management skills.

Ability to work in physically demanding conditions and respond to emergencies effectively.

What You’ll Like About Us:

Great Company Culture. Our people share a competitive drive for excellence in an environment of trust, teamwork, open-mindedness, and communication.

Safe. Industry leader in health and safety standards. We are committed to creating a safe work environment and protecting all employees and customers.

Meaningful Work. What sets us apart is that our work impacts daily lives – and every employee contributes. Our aggregates produced are used to build roads, schools, hospitals, airports, and housing throughout the United States.

Health Benefits. Medical, Dental, and Vision programs, plus much more.

Rest and Relaxation. Paid vacation, personal floating days, and paid holidays.

Prepare for the Future. 401(k) with company match and contribution.

Training and Development. We see our development programs and helping our employees meet their goals as critical to our business.

Hourly Range: the hourly range for this role is between $30.00- $40.00. This range is not inclusive of our discretionary bonus or equity package. When determining a candidate’s compensation, we consider a number of factors, including skillset, experience, job scope, and current market data.

Vulcan Materials Company is committed to employing a diverse workforce. You will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability. You also have the right to be free from discrimination for medical needs arising from pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.

NOTICE TO TEMPORARY STAFFING AGENCIES, PLACEMENT SERVICES, AND PROFESSIONAL RECRUITERS: Vulcan Materials Company has an internal recruiting department. Please review our policy regarding using temporary staffing agencies, placement services, and professional recruiters.