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Chief Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

Chief Engineer

Del Mar, 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

$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

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

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

Chula Vista, 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 ...

AET

Ordinary Seaman (OS)

Galveston, TX

The OS reports directly to the vessel Chief Mate and performs general maintenance, repair, sanitation and upkeep of material, equipment, and areas in the deck department. Key Accountabilities ...

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

El Cajon, 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

$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 ...

AET

AB

Galveston, TX

The AB receives daily standing orders from the Chief Mate. Key Accountabilities a) maintain housekeeping throughout the deck spaces. b) is responsible to carry out the orders of the Chief Mate or ...

AET

AB

Galveston, TX · On-site

The AB receives daily standing orders from the Chief Mate. Key Accountabilities a) maintain housekeeping throughout the deck spaces. b) is responsible to carry out the orders of the Chief Mate or ...

AET

Ordinary Seaman (OS)

Galveston, TX · On-site

The OS reports directly to the vessel Chief Mate and performs general maintenance, repair, sanitation and upkeep of material, equipment, and areas in the deck department. Key Accountabilities ...

Whoi

Second Mate Unlimited

Iselin, NJ

$45.29/hr

Reporting to the Master, is a watch officer in the Deck Department and assists the Master and Chief Mate with duties; designated the ship's navigation officer, maintains all navigation equipment ...

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Chief Mate information

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$33K

$124.4K

$200.5K

How much do chief mate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 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.
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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 Engineer

Astrion

Del Mar, CA • On-site

$65/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Overview
Chief Engineer (Permanent Party)
LOCATION: San Diego, CA
JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station)
CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card
CERTIFICATION: USCG
TRAVEL: 100%
COMPENSATION: Max $65/hr
Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Chief Engineer to work full time aboard USAV Worthy.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS
Education:
  • Must have a High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Graduate of a state or federal Maritime Academy, or U.S. Naval or Coast Guard Academy, as a Marine Engineer, or U.S. Naval schools or equivalent in Propulsion; 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 substituted for the formal education requirement.

Experience:
  • A total of five (5) years of experience as a licensed Chief Engineer aboard comparable or larger vessels

Certifications:
  • US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements.
  • Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card (CAC). Current U.S. Citizenship Required
  • Ability to pass a post offer drug screen and physical/medical clearance.
  • Current and Valid U.S. Passport*.

*(Passport, MMC/MMD, and med cert must have minimum of 6 months of validity prior to placement, or proof of renewal in progress.)
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS
  • Experience or background in government/public vessel operations.
  • Experience with vessels in a reduced operating status (ROS).
  • Background in supporting US Army requirements as it pertains to ocean going vessels.
  • Experience with diesel electric propulsion systems.
  • Knowledge of common safety practices and protective equipment used on an ocean-going vessel.
  • Self-starter, team player and conscientious worker.

RESPONSIBILITIES
The Chief Engineer on the vessel and must work closely with the vessel Master, Chief Mate, and other personnel involved with vessel operations including RGNEXT range safety personnel and embarked personnel. The USAV Worthy is a 200 ft long, 1,483 ton, special purpose vessel with a diesel electric propulsion system and a bow thruster. She typically carries a crew of 13 and up to 20 embarked mission personnel. Operates and maintains the assigned vessel's propulsion and auxiliary engineering systems.
  • Work with the vessel Master and the Chief Mate in executing the USAV Worthy maintenance program. Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of the vessel's systems in accordance with applicable standards and regulations.
  • Determine, source, and order parts, supplies, and material requirements for job accomplishment.
  • Accurately inputs O&M data, as well as projects long range maintenance issues.
  • Ensures the vessel maintains ABS Load-line and U.S. Army standards.
  • Remains on standby/recall status to the vessel during dockside periods, as needed.
  • Participates in the vessels off site OCCM (On-Condition Cyclic Maintenance) Dry-docking on a three-year basis
  • Supervises engineering team including permanent crew and surge crew. Aids in training and development of crew members.
  • Reports to the Master and the RGNEXT Technical lead for Range and Mission Safety.
  • Coordinates with mission staff (supernumeraries) and other personnel on Kwajalein for logistics, provisioning, re-stocking, and requesting maintenance activities for the vessel.
  • Ensures the vessel maintains ABS Load-line and U.S. Army standards.
  • Ensure logbooks and records are maintained and accurately completed.
  • Complies with and enforces safety regulations, guidelines, policies and procedures both within the Astrion polices and the relevant and applicable RGNEXT OSHE policies: including but not limited to RGNEXT OSHE hearing conservation and respiratory protection programs.
  • Ensures the vessel is operated and navigated in accordance with applicable US laws/regulations and host nation laws/regulations.
  • Perform Fire and Emergency duties associated with the Chief Engineer's billet on Ship's Station Bill.

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