Master - Coastal Towage

Svitzer; Tyne Valley; On-site; CAD 130,000 - 169,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading marine services company is seeking a Tug Master to manage safe and efficient towage operations. The successful candidate will have full command responsibility for Svitzer vessels and must possess a valid ENG1, Certificate of Competency, and experience in harbour and near-coastal towage. This position offers competitive compensation and encourages diverse applicants. While Tyne Valley is the primary location, qualified candidates from across the UK are welcome to apply.

Benefits

Attractive salary and benefits package

Career development opportunities

Balanced rotations for work-life balance

Qualifications

• Master with coastal or sea-going towage experience.
• Proven experience on ASD propulsion required.
• Harbour/Terminal towage experience is essential.

Responsibilities

• Ensure safe and efficient towage operations.
• Promote strong onboard safety culture.
• Manage vessel administration and compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Decision-making

Experience with ASD propulsion

Education

Valid ENG1

Certificate of Competency

Job description

Take your towage career further with Svitzer.

Svitzer is a global leader in marine services, operating one of the world’s largest and most respected towage fleets. Building on our strong UK harbour towage operations, we are expanding into near‑coastal towage, creating an exciting opportunity for experienced Masters who want to apply their harbour skills in a broader operational environment.

If you are a Harbour or Terminal Towage Master with coastal or sea‑going towage experience, this role offers a rare chance to combine both disciplines within a structured, safety‑driven organisation.

What We Offer

Balanced Rotations

A predictable 2 weeks on / 2 weeks off rotation, living onboard Ormesby Cross during your on‑duty period – supporting both work‑life balance and operational continuity.

Professional Standards & Support

Operate within Svitzer’s industry‑leading safety culture, procedures, and management systems, supported by experienced Marine Managers and modern, well‑maintained vessels.

Career Development

Opportunities to broaden your experience across harbour and near‑coastal towage, with access to training and professional development aligned with your qualifications and ambitions.

Competitive Package

An attractive salary and benefits package that reflects your experience, responsibility, and commitment.

The Role

As Tug Master, you will have full command responsibility for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of Svitzer vessels engaged in harbour assistance and near‑coastal towage.

Key Responsibilities Include

• Conducting harbour, terminal, and near‑coastal towage operations safely, efficiently, and in accordance with company procedures
• Leading by example to promote a strong onboard safety culture at all times
• Ensuring the vessel is maintained to the required operational and safety standards
• Managing vessel administration, including safety, compliance, and operational reporting
• Working closely with Marine Managers, Harbour Pilots, and operational stakeholders to ensure effective planning and execution of towage activities

Who We’re Looking For

• Master
• Proven experience on ASD propulsion
• Harbour / Terminal towage experience – essential
• Near‑coastal or sea towage experience – essential
• Right to Work in the UK – essential
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision‑making skills
• Confident with vessel administration and computer‑based systems
• Full UK Driving Licence
• Valid ENG1 and Certificate of Competency (to be provided with application)

While Tyne is the primary location on this advert, this role is not location restricted, and we welcome applications from suitably qualified candidates across the UK.

Building a Diverse Workplace

In Svitzer we value the diversity of our talent and will always strive to recruit the best person for the job – we value diversity in all its forms, including but not limited to gender, age, nationality, race, sexual orientation, disability, or religious beliefs. We are proud of our diversity and see it as a genuine source of strength for building high‑performing teams.

Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that members from some under‑represented groups are less likely to apply for jobs if they don’t meet every single qualification. At Svitzer we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles, and we are excited about hearing from you!

How To Apply

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