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Chief Mate Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Fairwater

Third Mate - Tankers

Dania Beach, FL · On-site

The Third Mateis responsible to the Master through the Chief Matefor watch duties pertaining to handling of oil or ballast, cargoes and various maintenance functions. * The Third Mate must become ...

Yulista

Navigational Watch 3rd Mate

Panama City, FL · On-site

Coordinates with the Chief Engineer and engineering watch personnel during normal and casualty operations to ensure the safe operation of the vessel. * Maintains required navigational records, bridge ...

Yulista

Navigational Watch 3rd Mate

Panama City, FL

Coordinates with the Chief Engineer and engineering watch personnel during normal and casualty operations to ensure the safe operation of the vessel. * Maintains required navigational records, bridge ...

Yulista

Navigational Watch 3rd Mate

Panama City, FL · On-site

Coordinates with the Chief Engineer and engineering watch personnel during normal and casualty operations to ensure the safe operation of the vessel. * Maintains required navigational records, bridge ...

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All JobsChief Mate JobsChief Mate Jobs in Florida

Chief Mate information

See Florida salary details

$24.7K

$93K

$149.8K

How much do chief mate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief mate in Florida is $92,970.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $109,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 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.

How much money does a chief mate make?

A chief mate typically earns between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, vessel size, and employer. They are responsible for cargo operations, safety, and navigation on commercial ships and often hold certifications such as STCW and a mate license.

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.
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Chief Mate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Mate job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,970 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Third Mate - Tankers

Fairwater

Dania Beach, FL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Stand watch on the bridge and perform navigational duties as assigned by the Master.

  • Handle oil or ballast, cargoes, and conduct maintenance related to cargo systems and safety equipment.

  • Inspect, test, and maintain fire and safety equipment, and update related records and emergency plans.

Job description

The name "Fairwater" speaks to our firm and steadfast commitment to partnership, equity, and trust.

Position Title: Third Mate - Tankers

Schedule: 75/75

Location: East Coast, Gulf, West Coast, International

Union: AMO

Required Qualifications

Languages: English

Minimum Credentials:

STCW

  • II/1: Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch
  • II/4: Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch
  • II/5: Able Seafarer- Deck
  • IV/2: GMDSS Operator
  • VI/1: Basic Safety Training
  • VI/2: Survival craft, Rescue Boats
  • VI/3: Advance Fire Fighting
  • VI/4: Medical First Aid Provider
  • VI/6: Vessel Personnel Designated with Security Duties

NATIONAL

  • 3rd Mate Of Self Propelled Vessels Not Including Sail or Auxiliary Sail of Unlimited Tonnage Upon Oceans
  • Radar Observer (Unlimited)
  • Able Seaman- Unlimited
  • Lifeboatman
  • Valid USCG Medical Certificate - STCW
  • Valid Passport - must be able to travel Internationally with no felonies, DUI, or other convictions which would restrict entry into Canada or other nations
  • Valid TWIC

Preferred Credentials/Qualifications:

  • V1-1: Advanced Oil Tanker Cargo Operation
  • V1-1: Advanced Chemical Tanker Cargo Operation
  • Tankerman PIC Limited to DL Cargoes

Experience

  • Familiarity with petroleum cargo and ballast operations and regulations
  • Prior experience/familiarity with Inert Gas or Nitrogen system operations
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Maintenance Programs (ABS NS5)

Duties and Responsibilities:

Duties and responsibilities for this position include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • The Third Mateis responsible to the Master for the proper performance of his assigned bridge watch standing and navigational duties. The Third Mateis responsible to the Master through the Chief Matefor watch duties pertaining to handling of oil or ballast, cargoes and various maintenance functions.
  • The Third Mate must become completely familiar with cargo systems, cargo pumps and their operation.
  • The Third Mate may be assigned by the Chief Materesponsibility for inspection, testing, and maintenance of the vessels fire and safety equipment. If assigned these duties the Third Mate will be responsible for maintaining records and maintenance routines of this equipment.
  • Duties may include updating the emergency equipment plan and issuing emergency station cards to all officers and crew.
  • The Third Mate must be knowledgeable in Firefighting and Lifesaving Equipment and operations.
  • The Third Mate may be responsible to the Master for the maintenance and inspection of the following:
  • Maintaining logbooks associated with navigation and cargo watch operations
  • Flags
  • Signal lights
  • Line throwing appliance
  • Other safety equipment
  • Binoculars
  • All other bridge equipment
  • Starting, testing, and securing of bridge equipment as a Bridge Watch Officer per procedure
  • Medicine chest and medical log as Medical Officer
  • Voyage Management Software
  • Safety meeting minutes
  • Voyage reports
  • The Third Mate must be able to perform a thorough turnover with their relief prior to leaving the vessel per procedure.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Vet/Disability

Fairwater reserves the right to revise or change job descriptions and responsibilities as the need arises.

This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

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