Captain/Master of Tow

NORTHSTAR ENERGY LLC•Los Angeles, CA

6d•$50 - $60•Onsite

About The Position

The Master of Tow (Captain) is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of company towing vessels engaged in petroleum transportation throughout Southern California. Reporting to the Vice President of Marine Operations, this position exercises full authority over vessel navigation, tow management, crew leadership, and regulatory compliance while maintaining the highest standards of safety, environmental stewardship, and operational excellence. The Master of Tow leads vessel operations during assigned hitches, oversees the performance and development of crew members, and works closely with shore-side leadership to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient marine transportation services. This role requires sound judgment, strong leadership, and a commitment to protecting people, property, and the environment.

Requirements

Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience aboard towing vessels, including service as a Captain or Mate.
Valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a Master of Towing Vessels endorsement and all licenses and endorsements required for the assigned vessel and operating area.
Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
Current Radar Observer endorsement (Unlimited or Inland, as applicable).
Current firefighting, first aid, CPR, and other U.S. Coast Guard certifications required for the assigned vessel and operating area.
Demonstrated experience with towing operations, petroleum barge transportation, and marine cargo handling.
Strong vessel handling, navigation, voyage planning, situational awareness, and risk assessment skills.
Working knowledge of propulsion systems, auxiliary machinery, and deck equipment.
Thorough knowledge of applicable U.S. Coast Guard regulations, the Company's Safety Management System (SMS), towing vessel operations, and maritime industry best practices.
Strong leadership, communication, and crew management abilities.
Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment and make timely operational decisions in routine and emergency situations.
Ability to safely perform the essential functions of the position, including working in a physically demanding marine environment and under varying weather and sea conditions.
Ability to successfully pass pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, post-accident, and return-to-duty drug and alcohol testing and maintain eligibility under applicable U.S. Coast Guard and company requirements.

Nice To Haves

Experience operating petroleum barges or other tank barges.
Experience operating towing vessels in Southern California ports and coastal waters.
Formal training in towing vessel operations, bridge resource management, or maritime leadership.
Experience leading and supervising towing vessel crews

Responsibilities

Exercise overall command and authority for the safe operation of the vessel, crew, cargo, and tow.
Safely navigate and operate company towing vessels in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, company policies, and industry best practices.
Plan, execute, and oversee towing operations, including making up, maintaining, and breaking tow configurations.
Evaluate weather, tides, currents, and navigational conditions when planning voyages and towing operations.
Ensure the safe transportation of petroleum barges while protecting personnel, cargo, vessels, and the environment.
Ensure compliance with applicable U.S. Coast Guard regulations, the Company's Safety Management System (SMS), company policies, and environmental requirements.
Lead and supervise vessel crew members, fostering a culture of safety, professionalism, teamwork, and accountability.
Conduct safety meetings, emergency drills, and onboard training to maintain operational readiness.
Ensure compliance with all U.S. Coast Guard regulations, company policies, and the Company's Safety Management System.
Oversee vessel inspections, preventative maintenance, housekeeping, and equipment readiness.
Coordinate voyage planning, communications, and operational activities with shore-side management.
Maintain accurate vessel logs, inspection records, regulatory documentation, and operational reports.
Respond effectively to emergencies and make sound operational decisions under changing conditions.
Represent the Company professionally while maintaining the highest standards of safety and customer service.

Benefits

Two (2) weeks of paid vacation
Nine (9) paid holidays
Six (6) paid sick days
Employer-subsidized medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and eligible dependents
401(k) with company match
Employer-paid Life and AD&D insurance
Employer-paid Long-Term Disability insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Tuition reimbursement