Job Details

Able Seaman (AB)

Seasonal Opportunity | Cook Inlet Tug & Barge

Season Dates: 2026 Summer Season

Season: May-October

Location: Alaska

Generous Sign-On Bonus Available

Set Sail on an Alaska Maritime Adventure

If you're an experienced Able Seaman looking for meaningful, hands-on work in some of the most rugged and spectacular waters in the world, this is your call to the deck.

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge-Alaska's premier tug and barge operator-is seeking skilled Able Seamen (ABs) for the upcoming season. This is an opportunity to work alongside seasoned mariners, support essential marine operations across Southcentral and Western Alaska, and be part of a team that takes pride in doing demanding work safely and professionally.

This role is ideal for mariners who value adventure, teamwork, and a strong safety culture-and who want a seasonal schedule that delivers real experience and real impact.

Why Join Cook Inlet Tug & Barge?

Work That Matters
Our crews support critical maritime logistics in remote Alaskan waters-this is not routine coastal sailing. Every voyage counts.

Adventure Built In
Experience Alaska from the deck of a working tug-remote ports, challenging conditions, and unforgettable scenery included.

Seasonal Structure
A defined season (four to eight months) allows you to focus fully on the work, then recharge or pursue other opportunities in the off-season.

Crew-First Safety Culture
Health and safety are not slogans here-they're expectations, reinforced daily by leadership and crew alike.

The Role: Able Seaman (AB)

As an Able Seaman, you are a key member of the vessel crew, responsible for keeping the tug and barge in a constant state of readiness while supporting safe, efficient operations.

Working under the direction of the Captain, you will:

• Make up and manage single and multiple barge tows
• Provide clear direction, distance signals, and situational awareness to crew
• Maintain deck safety by keeping all lines and gear properly stowed
• Perform vessel inspections, cleaning, and routine maintenance
• Operate and work around deck equipment, including winches, capstans, peaveys, pike poles, pumps, and articulated loaders
• Support daily crew needs, including meal preparation and supply stocking
• Uphold company policies, procedures, and maritime industry safety standards at all times

You are an integral part of the onboard safety culture and play a direct role in protecting your fellow crew members, the vessel, and the operation.

Required Qualifications

• Valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with Able Seaman (AB) endorsement
• Valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC)
• Valid United States Passport
• Ability to pass a criminal background check and meet requirements for entry into Canada
• Valid driver's license
• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Must be eligible to work in the United States

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Lodging and meals provided onboard the vessel
• Company-provided transportation to and from the vessel
• Must be physically capable of:
  • Boarding tugs and barges
  • Ascending and descending ladders
  • Balancing and working safely in a seaway
  • Kneeling, stooping, reaching overhead, and standing for extended periods
• Comfortable working at heights and on narrow walkways
• Ability to work 12-hour days, every day, for the full season
• Regular exposure to all weather conditions, including rain, wind, snow, ice, and heat

How to Apply

Submit your application today at:


Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Cook Inlet Tug & Barge is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse workforce. We take affirmative action to employ and advance qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. We are a drug-free workplace and participate in the E-Verify Employment Verification Program.