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Captain First Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

O'Hara Corporation

First Mate

Seattle, WA · On-site

Passion. USCG Mate's License (min. 500 tons) required Mates stand watch and manage the operation of the vessel as directed by the Captain; supervises and directs deck personnel during fishing ...

O'Hara Corporation

First Mate

Seattle, WA · On-site

Passion. USCG Mate's License (min. 500 tons) required Mates stand watch and manage the operation of the vessel as directed by the Captain; supervises and directs deck personnel during fishing ...

O'Hara Corporation

First Mate

Seattle, WA · On-site

Passion. USCG Mate's License (min. 500 tons) required Mates stand watch and manage the operation of the vessel as directed by the Captain; supervises and directs deck personnel during fishing ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

First Mate

Miami, FL · On-site

Assisting the Captain in the operation and maintenance of the yacht * Overseeing the deck ... STCW, minimum 50T USCG Master/Mate Coastal License. * Valid US Driver's license. * The vessel is ...

WaterFire

Fan of the Flames?!

Providence, RI · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

You will receive a safety speech from the Captain/First Mate/ to start. From there, you are a part of the lighting procession. Every 20-ish minutes, you will ceremonially place logs onto braziers to ...

Hornblower

First Mate- City Cruises New York

New York, NY · On-site

$21 - $28/hr

The First Mate assists the Captain to safely moor, operate, and maintain company vessels. The First Mate assists passengers in loading and off-loading safely. The First Mate assists in all aspects of ...

Guestservices

$33.75 - $37/hr

Perform duties as First Mate to Captain, which may include the safety talk prior to vessel leaving the dock. * Educate and inform guests about Everglades Park history including crocodiles, manatees ...

Afton House Inn

100 Ton Licensed Captain

Afton, MN · On-site

Captain will help with public cruise check-in of passengers Captain will work Directly with Owners, First Mate and Crew St. Croix River Cruises has been a family owned and operated business since ...

Afton House Inn

100 Ton Licensed Captain

Afton, MN · On-site

Captain will help with public cruise check-in of passengers Captain will work Directly with Owners, First Mate and Crew St. Croix River Cruises has been a family owned and operated business since ...

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Captain First Mate information

See salary details

$5

$25

$48

How much do captain first mate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for captain first mate in the United States is $25.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the responsibilities of a captain first mate?

A Captain First Mate, often simply called a First Mate, is the second-in-command on a ship and acts as the primary assistant to the Captain. Their main duties include overseeing the crew, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the vessel, managing navigation and watch schedules, and handling emergency procedures. The First Mate also assists with maintenance, cargo operations, and enforcing safety regulations, making them a crucial leader on board. In the Captain’s absence, the First Mate assumes full command of the ship.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a captain first mate?

To thrive as a Captain First Mate, you need strong maritime navigation skills, knowledge of vessel operations, and relevant certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and STCW endorsement. Familiarity with GPS, radar systems, electronic chart displays, and safety management protocols is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing crew and responding to challenges at sea. Mastering these skills ensures safe vessel operation, regulatory compliance, and efficient teamwork during voyages.

How does a captain first mate collaborate with crew members to ensure smooth vessel operations?

Captain First Mates play a key leadership role, acting as the primary link between the captain and the rest of the crew. They are responsible for assigning tasks, overseeing daily operations, and ensuring all safety protocols are followed. Close collaboration with engineers, deckhands, and other crew members is essential, as the First Mate coordinates activities such as navigation, maintenance, and emergency drills. Effective communication and teamwork are vital, as the role often involves resolving conflicts and ensuring everyone is aligned with the vessel's objectives.

What is the difference between Captain First Mate vs Captain?

AspectCaptain First MateCaptain
CertificationsSTCW certifications, maritime licensesSame as First Mate, plus additional leadership certifications
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, assisting captain, overseeing crewOnboard ships, commanding vessel, making strategic decisions
Employer & IndustryMaritime shipping, yachting, cruise linesMaritime shipping, yachting, cruise lines
Search & ComparisonOften compared for crew hierarchy, support rolesHigher leadership, command responsibilities

The Captain First Mate and Captain roles are closely related in the maritime industry. The First Mate primarily supports the captain, assisting with navigation, safety, and crew management, and holds similar certifications. The captain, however, has overall command of the vessel, making strategic and operational decisions. Both roles work in similar environments and industries, but the captain's responsibilities are broader and more leadership-focused.

More about Captain First Mate jobs

What states have the most Captain First Mate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Captain First Mate jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Captain First Mate jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Captain First Mate jobs are:

Captain First Mate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Captain First Mate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Nashville Riverboats USCG Licensed 100-Ton First Mate (Captain Apprenticeship)

Nashville Riverboats LLC

Nashville, TN • On-site

$50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description

USCG 100 Ton Licensed First Mate (Captain Apprenticeship)

Manthey Hospitality - Nashville Riverboats | Nashville, TN | Full-Time


Launch Your Career as a Future Captain

Nashville Riverboats is seeking a motivated USCG Licensed First Mate who is ready to take the next step in their maritime career. This is more than a First Mate position-it's a Captain Apprenticeship Program designed to prepare the right candidate for command as we continue to grow.


With a new vessel joining our fleet in late fall, we're investing in the next generation of captains and looking for someone who wants to grow with us for the long term.


What You'll Do

  • Serve as First Mate aboard our sightseeing, dining, and private event cruises.
  • Assist the Captain with the safe operation and navigation of the vessel.
  • Lead deck operations, docking, line handling, and emergency preparedness.
  • Ensure compliance with all USCG regulations and company safety standards.
  • Provide outstanding guest service while maintaining a professional presence.
  • Mentor deckhands and help develop a strong safety culture.

Captain Apprenticeship Program

This role is designed for someone who wants to become a Captain!

As part of your development, you'll receive:

  • Structured mentorship from experienced Captains.
  • Progressive operational responsibilities.
  • Hands-on training in vessel operations and command.
  • Financial assistance toward the required coursework to obtain your Captain's License when you're eligible.
  • A clear pathway to promotion as our fleet expands.

What We're Looking For

  • Current USCG License (appropriate for First Mate duties).
  • TWIC Card (or ability to obtain one if required).
  • Strong leadership and communication skills.
  • Excellent judgment and commitment to safety.
  • Professional, guest-focused attitude.
  • Desire to build a long-term career on the water and advance into a Captain role.

Why Join Nashville Riverboats?

  • Competitive pay: 25 Ton License Starts at $22, 50 Ton License Starts at $25, and 100 Ton License $28-30
  • MMC courses and exam reimbursement eligible. 
  • Relocation stipend available for qualified candidates.
  • Captain mentorship and career development.
  • Stable, year-round employment.
  • Home every night. 
  • Opportunity to join an expanding fleet with excellent advancement potential.
  • Work on one of Nashville's premier riverboat operations while creating memorable guest experiences every day.

If you're looking for more than just another maritime job and want a clear path to becoming a Captain, we'd love to hear from you!


Apply today and help shape the future of Nashville Riverboats.


Equal Opportunity Statement

Manthey Hospitality is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law.


This job posting is a condensed summary of the role and not a full job description. A complete description will be reviewed during the interview process. Responsibilities and duties may change based on business needs and may include additional tasks not listed above.


Apply