Tug Captain - Charleston

About the role

Colonial Towing, Inc. is seeking a Master to oversee the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of vessels, tows, and crews in the ports of Savannah, GA, and Charleston, SC. Reporting to management, the Master ensures all activities align with company policies and federal, state, and local regulations while maintaining vessel readiness, crew safety, and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Maintain current U.S. Coast Guard license as Master or Operator of Towing Vessels; ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.
• Provide leadership and supervision to crew members, including scheduling, performance management, and discipline.
• Ensure the seaworthiness, cleanliness, and operational readiness of vessels and barges; coordinate maintenance and promptly report deficiencies.
• Oversee voyage execution, crew assignments, and resource utilization to meet schedules safely and efficiently.
• Maintain accurate vessel logs and documentation; report accidents, injuries, operational deficiencies, and marine incidents as required.
• Manage vessel provisioning and supply inventory, submitting receipts and documentation to the Port Captain.
• Enforce safety policies, conduct emergency drills, and ensure proper maintenance of lifesaving, firefighting, and first aid equipment.
• Verify crew training in emergency response and compliance with station bills and safety procedures.

Requirements

• Current U.S. Coast Guard license as Master of Towing Vessels.
• Current endorsement as Tank Barge Person in Charge (PIC-DL), as required.
• Southeast Intracoastal Waterway experience required.
• Demonstrated competency in crew management, vessel handling, and navigation.
• Knowledge of applicable company policies, regulatory requirements, and emergency plans.
• Approval from the Port Captain.
• Firefighting training and demonstrated use of Vessel Response and Security Plans.

Skills

• Strong leadership, crew management, and communication skills.
• Superior vessel handling, navigation, and situational awareness in varying conditions.
• Ability to read and interpret U.S. Coast Guard Notices to Mariners, Rules of the Road, charts, and regulatory publications.
• Proficiency in completing vessel logs, incident reports, and regulatory documentation.
• Sound judgment and problem-solving in dynamic and emergency situations.

Schedule

The Master position follows a two weeks on/two weeks off rotation, with weekend and holiday work based on vessel schedules and operational needs. Living and working aboard the vessel is required for the duration of the assigned rotation; schedules may vary due to weather, emergencies, or business needs.

Physical demands

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, climb stairs and ladders, and maintain balance aboard vessels and barges.
• Capability to bend, stoop, reach, push, pull, and lift equipment and supplies as needed.
• Sufficient vision, color recognition, and depth perception for safe navigation in day and night conditions.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and marine conditions while performing emergency duties.