ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Chief Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stabbert Offshore Crew

Chief Mate Unlimited

Seattle, WA · On-site

$157K - $163K/yr

The Chief Mate is a senior deck officer responsible for assisting the Mater in the safe and efficient operation of the vessel. This position requires a highly experienced licensed officer with strong ...

Positions at Sea - UnCruise Adventures

Chief Mate

Juneau, AK · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

All Chief Mate positions for the Summer 2026 Alaska Season have been filled. We will continue to accept applications and contact candidates if staffing needs change. CREW PERKS * Heath care benefits ...

V2X

The Chief Mate will act as second in command to the Vessel Captain. Responsibilities This position description is subject to change at any time as needed to meet the requirements of the program or ...

V2X

The Chief Mate will act as second in command to the Vessel Captain. Responsibilities This position description is subject to change at any time as needed to meet the requirements of the program or ...

ssc

Cargo Chief Mate - Marine

Savannah, GA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The Cargo Chief Mate is primarily responsible for conducting cargo operations, oversee deck hands, perform and supervise deck maintenance duties, and stand a navigational watch (Officer in Charge of ...

German Tanker Shipping Group

... Chief Mate / First Officer preferred Experience on oil and/or chemical tankers is advantageous Fluent English , both written and spoken Residence in Germany What We Offer A permanent employment ...

Overseas Shipholding Group

Tanker Chief Mate

Tampa, FL · On-site

The Chief Officer is responsible to the Master for the efficient operation of the deck department. The Chief Officer's responsibilities include: · Compliance with the Company's MS requirements ...

osg

Tanker Chief Mate

Tampa, FL

The Chief Officer is responsible to the Master for the efficient operation of the deck department. The Chief Officer's responsibilities include: · Compliance with the Company's MS requirements ...

OSG Ship Management, Inc.

Tanker Chief Mate

Tampa, FL · On-site

The Chief Officer is responsible to the Master for the efficient operation of the deck department. The Chief Officer's responsibilities include: • Compliance with the Company's MS requirements ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA

$65/hr

Machinist Mate; Engineman; Damage Control; Air Conditioning and Refrigeration; etc. * A total of five (5) years of experience as a licensed Chief Engineer aboard comparable or larger vessels may be ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Machinist Mate; Engineman; Damage Control; Air Conditioning and Refrigeration; etc. * A total of five (5) years of experience as a licensed Chief Engineer aboard comparable or larger vessels may be ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Machinist Mate; Engineman; Damage Control; Air Conditioning and Refrigeration; etc. * A total of five (5) years of experience as a licensed Chief Engineer aboard comparable or larger vessels may be ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

Spring Valley, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Machinist Mate; Engineman; Damage Control; Air Conditioning and Refrigeration; etc. * A total of five (5) years of experience as a licensed Chief Engineer aboard comparable or larger vessels may be ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsChief Mate Jobs

Chief Mate information

See salary details

$33K

$124.4K

$200.5K

How much do chief mate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief mate in the United States is $124,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,000.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chief mate do?

A chief mate is the second-in-command officer after the captain of the ship. As a chief mate, your job is to oversee vessel navigation, supervise cargo operations, and monitor specific onboard equipment. Other responsibilities include maintaining the cargo gears and cargo, checking the emergency and firefighting equipment, scheduling the deck crew, and ensuring the stability of the ship. You serve as the first officer to the captain so you must ensure all the ship’s crew comply with all rules and regulations and safeguard their safety and welfare; you may also assist with hiring and training new employees as necessary. After working as a chief mate for several years, you may be able to move up to the captain of the ship.

What is the difference between Chief Mate vs Second Mate?

AspectChief MateSecond Mate
CertificationsSTCW Officer of the Watch, Chief Mate licenseSTCW Officer of the Watch, Second Mate license
Work EnvironmentBridge management, cargo operations, safety oversightNavigation, watchkeeping, safety checks
ResponsibilitiesSupervising deck crew, cargo planning, safety complianceNavigation, lookout duties, maintaining charts

The Chief Mate and Second Mate roles are both vital deck positions requiring similar certifications. The Chief Mate oversees cargo operations and safety management, while the Second Mate primarily handles navigation and watchkeeping. The Chief Mate is a senior deck officer with broader responsibilities, whereas the Second Mate focuses on navigation duties. Both roles are essential in maritime operations and often work closely together to ensure vessel safety and efficiency.

What is a chief mate?

A Chief Mate, also known as the First Officer, is the second-in-command on a merchant vessel after the Captain. They are responsible for the ship's cargo operations, deck crew management, navigation watch, and safety procedures. The Chief Mate plays a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the ship, overseeing loading and unloading, and maintaining discipline among the crew. This position requires extensive maritime training and certification, as well as strong leadership and organizational skills.

Is a chief mate a high position?

A chief mate is a senior officer on a ship responsible for cargo operations, safety, and navigation, and is considered a high-ranking position in maritime crews. It typically requires extensive experience, certifications such as STCW, and leadership skills, making it a prestigious role within the maritime industry.

What are the most common challenges faced by a chief mate when managing a diverse crew onboard?

Chief Mates often encounter challenges related to communication and teamwork, especially when managing crews from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Ensuring safety, maintaining discipline, and fostering mutual respect are essential but can be complex when perspectives and working styles vary. Successful Chief Mates use clear procedures, regular meetings, and proactive conflict resolution to build a cohesive team. Adaptability and strong leadership are key to overcoming these challenges and maintaining smooth vessel operations.

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

To thrive as a Chief Mate, you need a thorough understanding of ship operations, navigation, cargo handling, and maritime safety regulations, typically supported by a valid STCW Chief Mate license and relevant seafaring experience. Familiarity with navigation systems (like ECDIS), cargo management software, and safety management systems is essential. Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills help you effectively manage crew and respond to emergencies. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring vessel safety, efficient operations, and compliance with international maritime standards.
More about Chief Mate jobs

What cities are hiring for Chief Mate jobs?

Cities with the most Chief Mate job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Chief Mate jobs?

The most popular types of Chief Mate jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Chief Mate jobs?

The top employers for Chief Mate jobs are:

What states have the most Chief Mate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Chief Mate jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Chief Mate jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Chief Mate jobs are:

Chief Mate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Mate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,409 per year, or $59.8 per hour.

Chief Mate Unlimited

Stabbert Offshore Crew

Seattle, WA • On-site

$157K - $163K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Description:

Stabbert Maritime is a family-owned company with a proud legacy spanning over 50 years and two generations. We provide a comprehensive range of innovative solutions and support services to clients in the offshore, scientific research, subsea, defense, and ship repair industries. Our diverse operational fleet serves the science, research, offshore energy, defense, and renewable energy sectors, delivering reliable and specialized maritime services. Stabbert is currently looking for a Chief Mate to join our fleet.

Position Summary:

The Chief Mate is a senior deck officer responsible for assisting the Mater in the safe and efficient operation of the vessel. This position requires a highly experienced licensed officer with strong leadership skills and a comprehensive understanding of maritime safety and operations. The Chief Mate reports to the Master.

Essential Functions:

  • The Chief Mate is the head of the Deck Department and is the Officer in Charge in the Master's absence.
  • Works under the Master's direction to ensure the vessel's safe operation.
  • Keep a safe navigational watch when required.
  • While DP watch, acts as Senior DP Operator
  • Oversees vessel maintenance with special emphasis on deck gear, cargo gear, internal and external coatings, spares, budgeting, and closely cooperating with the Chief and First Engineers for technical equipment maintenance and repair.
  • Responsible for the supervision and training of junior officers and ratings in the deck department.
  • Administration of the Deck department, including record keeping, vessel drills, exercises, and logs.
  • Other safety, environmental, or quality duties as assigned by the Master.
  • Verifies the maintenance of DP Equipment & Computers.
  • Tracks FFA, LSA, and other safety equipment, including its maintenance and inventory.
Requirements:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Ability to analyze problems via communication while a vessel is at sea or in a remote location.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills; capable of maintaining strong relationships both with the team and customers.
  • Time management skills with the ability to meet deadlines.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Must be well-organized, detail and customer-oriented (internal and external), self-starter, self-motivated, prioritize duties, and follow through with tasks to completion as necessary.
  • Working knowledge in MS Office and Adobe DC.

Education and/or Requirements:

  • Unlimited Chief Mate Oceans license issued by the US Coast Guard.
  • Valid STCW certifications
  • Must have a US Passport
  • DP Certification
  • Minimum five (5) years of sailing experience.
  • Results-oriented, self-starter with a high level of initiative
  • Strong ability to organize and communicate with others
  • Strong work ethics, values, and principles with safety as the first priority
  • Understand and be able to support SMS.

Position Content

This job description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of all the responsibilities, skills, and working conditions associated with the positions. While it is intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements, these requirements may change over time. Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties and assign other duties as necessary.

Stabbert Maritime is a family-owned and operated maritime company. We take pride in our vessels, teams, and the ability to think outside the box to solve our customers' needs. If you are looking to be part of a dynamic team with a company that focuses on its people and understands the importance of quality and work-life balance, please send your resume.

Apply