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3Rd Mate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

gCaptain

Third Officer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$150 - $160/hr

As directed/designated by the Chief Mate: (1) makes timely and frequent inspection of all ... Third Mate Any Gross Tons Upon Oceans (or higher), and Radar Observer - Unlimited, * MMC endorsed ...

gCaptain

Third Officer Mixed Work Schedule

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$68.12 - $84.05/hr

As directed/designated by the Chief Mate: (1) makes timely and frequent inspection of all ... Third Mate Any Gross Tons Upon Oceans (or higher), and Radar Observer - Unlimited. * MMC endorsed ...

New

Huntington Ingalls Industries

REFUELER

Newport News, VA · On-site

$57K - $85K/yr

... third-, fourth- and even fifth-generation shipbuilders - HII's Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS ... Qualified candidates must have one (1) or more years experience as a machinist, machinist mate ...

HII

$74K - $85K/yr

... third-, fourth- and even fifth-generation shipbuilders - HII's Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS ... mate, or similar experience. Nice to Have Prior Mechanical experience such as Automotive Repair ...

HII

MACHINIST EXPERIENCED

Newport News, VA

$74K - $85K/yr

... third-, fourth- and even fifth-generation shipbuilders - HII's Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS ... mate, or similar experience. Nice to Have Prior Mechanical experience such as Automotive Repair ...

HII

$74K - $85K/yr

... third-, fourth- and even fifth-generation shipbuilders - HII's Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS ... mate, or similar experience. Nice to Have Prior Mechanical experience such as Automotive Repair ...

HII

MACHINIST EXPERIENCED

Newport News, VA · On-site

$74K - $85K/yr

... third-, fourth- and even fifth-generation shipbuilders - HII's Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS ... mate, or similar experience. Nice to Have Prior Mechanical experience such as Automotive Repair ...

HII

MACHINIST EXPERIENCED

Newport News, VA

$74K - $85K/yr

... third-, fourth- and even fifth-generation shipbuilders - HII's Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS ... mate, or similar experience. Nice to Have Prior Mechanical experience such as Automotive Repair ...

All Jobs3Rd Mate Jobs3Rd Mate Jobs in Virginia

3Rd Mate information

See Virginia salary details

$26

$29

$31

How much do 3rd mate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for 3rd mate in Virginia is $29.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.12 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 3rd mate?

A 3rd Mate, also known as Third Officer, is a licensed member of a ship’s deck department. They are responsible for navigational watch, safety equipment inspections, and assisting in daily operations to ensure the vessel’s safe and efficient passage. The 3rd Mate typically stands watch on the bridge, updates navigational charts, and helps oversee the loading and unloading of cargo. They also play a role in emergency procedures and crew training, making them an essential part of the ship's operational team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3rd mate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 3rd Mate, you need a solid understanding of navigation, seamanship, cargo handling, and safety procedures, typically supported by a bachelor's degree from a maritime academy and a valid U.S. Coast Guard license or equivalent certification. Familiarity with navigational equipment, radar, ECDIS systems, and safety management protocols is essential. Strong leadership, situational awareness, and effective communication help a 3rd Mate excel in coordinating crew activities and responding to emergencies. These competencies are crucial to ensuring safe vessel operations, regulatory compliance, and the well-being of crew and cargo at sea.

What are some common challenges a 3rd mate may encounter during a typical voyage?

As a 3rd Mate, you may face challenges such as adapting to shifting schedules, managing bridge watchkeeping duties, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. You will need to stay alert during long or overnight watches, respond quickly to changes in weather or traffic, and coordinate with other deck officers and crew members. Additionally, the responsibility of maintaining navigational equipment and assisting with cargo operations requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

What is the difference between 3Rd Mate vs 2Nd Mate?

Aspect3Rd Mate2Nd Mate
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, STCW Personal Survival TechniquesSTCW Basic Safety, Advanced Fire Fighting
Work EnvironmentDeck department, assisting navigation and safetyDeck department, more responsibilities in navigation and watchkeeping
Employer & Industry UsageMaritime shipping companies, cruise linesMaritime shipping companies, cargo vessels

The main difference between a 3Rd Mate and a 2Nd Mate lies in their responsibilities and experience level. The 2Nd Mate typically has more advanced certifications and takes on greater duties in navigation and watchkeeping. Both roles are essential in the deck department of ships, but the 2Nd Mate is usually more experienced and trusted with more complex tasks.

What are the duties of a 3rd Mate?

A 3rd Mate is a licensed deck officer responsible for safety, navigation, and cargo operations on a vessel. They assist with watchkeeping, maintain safety equipment, and support navigation tasks using tools like charts and radar. Certification requirements typically include completing maritime training and obtaining relevant licenses.

What are the requirements for third mate?

To become a third mate, candidates must hold a valid Merchant Mariner Credential with a third mate license, which requires completing approved maritime training, accumulating a specified amount of sea service, and passing written exams. Additionally, applicants must meet age, health, and background check requirements, and often need to obtain STCW certification for safety and security standards.

What are popular job titles related to 3Rd Mate jobs in Virginia?

For 3Rd Mate jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching 3Rd Mate jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for 3Rd Mate jobs in Virginia are:

3Rd Mate jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3Rd Mate job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,081 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Third Mate - Seaward Services - TSVRON

Hornblower

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$41.03/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Hornblower rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 9 rated cruise lines

Job description

Hornblower Group is a global leader in experience and transportation. Spanning a 100-year history, Hornblower Group's portfolio of international offerings includes water- and land-based experiences and ferry and transportation services. City Experiences, Hornblower Group's premier experience division, offers dining and sightseeing cruises and walking and food tours through the City Cruises, Walks, and Devour brands. City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private operator of high-speed passenger and vehicle ferries in the United States, carrying more than 10 million passengers annually and operating services including NYC Ferry, Puerto Rico Ferry, and other regional ferry systemsHornblower Group's subsidiaries include Hornblower Marine, which provides vessel outhaul and maintenance services at Bridgeport Boatworks in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and Seaward Services, Inc., a full-service shipping, waterfront logistics and management company that specializes in the operation and maintenance of government and commercial vessels. Additionally, Anchor Operating System, LLC, a Hornblower Group subsidiary and independent entity, provides reservation, ticketing and website integration services for clients in the transportation, tourism and entertainment industries. Today, Hornblower Group's global portfolio covers over 10 countries, over 50 U.S. cities and serves more than 20 million guests annually. Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, Hornblower Group's additional corporate offices reside in San Francisco, California; Boston, Massachusetts; Chicago, Illinois; London, United Kingdom; New York, New York; Dublin, Ireland; and across Ontario, Canada. For more information, visit hornblowercorp.com.
Position Summary:
The Mate supports safe and effective vessel operations aboard Training Support Vessels by serving as a navigation officer and assisting with deck maintenance activities. This position is responsible for preparing voyage plans, standing assigned watches, and maintaining navigational charts and publications. The Mate works under the direction of the Chief Mate and provides voyage progress reports and navigational support to the Master.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Serve as a navigation officer in accordance with company procedures and regulatory requirements.
  • Prepare all voyage plans, monitor voyage progress, and provide daily updates to the Master.
  • Maintain navigational charts, publications, and electronic navigation systems.
  • Stand assigned navigational and safety watches to ensure the safe operation of the vessel.
  • Perform deck maintenance, cleaning, painting, and repair tasks as directed by the Chief Mate.
  • Participate in required drills, safety inspections, and onboard training activities.
  • Assist with deck operations and other seamanship duties as required.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support vessel operations.

Requirements & Qualifications:
  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard license and STCW endorsements, including: OICNW, RFPNW, Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC), Medical Care Provider, Advanced Firefighting (ADV FF), Basic Training, GMDSS Radio Operator, and ECDIS.
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Must hold or be eligible for a Common Access Card (CAC).
  • Must possess or be eligible for a United States Passport.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a SECRET security clearance.
  • Must meet physical standards for shipboard service, including the ability to lift, climb, and work in demanding marine environments.
  • Willingness to perform routine maintenance and cleaning duties as part of deck operations.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment in dynamic operational environments.
  • Must meet all company and contractual requirements.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

#SeawardServices
#HB1
The RESPECT Service System embodies our mission, vision, values and operating principles. By creating a company culture that puts RESPECT at its core, we believe it will drive us to achieve our goal of becoming a Global Experiences and Transportation Leader.
EEO / Disabled / Protected Veteran Employer. Hornblower is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We offer equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals and prohibit discrimination and/or harassment of any type, including but not limited to discrimination and or harassment based upon race, religion, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, pregnancy or relation medical conditions, childbirth, breastfeeding, parental status, veteran and/or military status, disability (physical or mental), medical condition, genetic information or characteristics, political affiliation, domestic violence survivor status, marital status, or other characteristics prohibited by federal, state, or local law. Additionally, as a federal, state, and local contractor, Hornblower complies with government regulations, including affirmative action responsibilities for qualified individuals, where and as they apply. The company also participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations.

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