Captain, Tug & Barge Operations (Puget Sound & Alaska)

Island Tug and Barge CO.; Anchorage (AK); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Island Tug and Barge Co. seeks a Captain to oversee the safe and efficient operation of tug and barge vessels on routes in Puget Sound, Alaska, and Pacific Northwest waters. You will plan voyages, supervise cargo handling, and ensure regulatory compliance.

The role emphasizes leadership, safety culture, and coordination with dispatch and customers, with the majority of work at sea and in port, and some remote coordination tasks.

Qualifications

• Experience commanding tug and barge operations, coastal and inland waters, and voyage planning.
• Strong safety culture and regulatory compliance knowledge, including USCG rules and environmental standards.
• Proven leadership to train, supervise, and support diverse crews under dynamic conditions.
• Experience with industrial cargo (aggregate, cement, fuel, deck cargo) and port ops in PNW/Alaska.
• Clear communication and meticulous documentation with customers and shore teams.
• USCG Master credential appropriate to vessels operated; TWIC and endorsements preferred.
• Demonstrated Puget Sound and Alaska operating experience with safety and reliability.
• Ability to work in varying weather, rotating schedules, and pass medical/drug/background screenings.

Responsibilities

• Plan voyages, navigate vessels, and maneuver safely on assigned routes.
• Oversee cargo handling, transfers, and seaworthiness; monitor vessel systems.
• Lead and mentor crew; promote safety culture and conduct drills.
• Ensure compliance with USCG regulations and company policies.
• Maintain communication with dispatch, customers, and shore management.

Skills

Vessel command & navigation

Safety & regulatory compliance

Leadership & crew management

Cargo handling & port operations

Communication & documentation

USCG Master credential (preferred)

Puget Sound & Alaska experience

Medical, drug & background screening

Job description

Island Tug and Barge Co. seeks a Captain to oversee the safe and efficient operation of tug and barge vessels on routes in Puget Sound, Alaska, and Pacific Northwest waters. You will plan voyages, supervise cargo handling, and ensure regulatory compliance.

The role emphasizes leadership, safety culture, and coordination with dispatch and customers, with the majority of work at sea and in port, and some remote coordination tasks.