ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Chief Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Cape Fear Community College

PT Chief Mate

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$26.15/hr

Coast Guard license as a Mate or Master of vessels of 100 gross tons * Possession of, or ability to obtain, U.S. Coast Guard STCW certification and Merchant Mariners Document * Possession of, or ...

Transocean Ltd.

3rd Mate

Houston, TX · On-site

Job Summary Assist the Chief Mate/Senior Mate and 2nd Mate in exercising control over the rig's marine operations with due regard for safety of personnel, maintenance of rig equipment and protection ...

ConocoPhillips

3rd Mate - Marine

Houston, TX · On-site

Description If you are selected as the 3rd Mate, you will be working under the direction of the Master and Chief Mate. The 3rd Mate must have a good understanding of all deck machinery and cargo ...

Lindblad Expeditions

Rotational Deckhand

Seattle, WA

May be assigned various special projects as per the Chief Mate's work list. Boat Operations * Handles lines during docking and undocking procedures. * Assigned anchoring duties as needed. * Assists ...

Valaris plc

$90 - $150/hr

May report directly to the Master if no Chief Mate/Barge Supervisor is on tour. Is the senior person on the bridge/control room in the absence of the Chief Mate or Master. Junior Dynamic Positioning ...

Lindblad Expeditions

Rotational Deckhand

Seattle, WA · On-site

$215 - $223/day

May be assigned various special projects as per the Chief Mate's work list. Boat Operations * Handles lines during docking and undocking procedures. * Assigned anchoring duties as needed. * Assists ...

Lindblad Expeditions

Licensed Deckhand

Seattle, WA · On-site

$215 - $223/day

May be assigned various special projects as per the Chief Mate's work list. Boat Operations * Handles lines during docking and undocking procedures. * Assigned anchoring duties as needed. * Assists ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsTravel JobsMaritime 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 Sep 6, 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 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.
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% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,409 per year, or $59.8 per hour.

Chief Engineer-San Diego, California

Astrion

National City, CA

$65/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate and maintain the vessel's propulsion and auxiliary engineering systems.

  • Work with the vessel Master and Chief Mate to execute maintenance programs and oversee the upkeep of vessel systems.

  • Supervise the engineering team, including training and development of crew members.

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.

#CJ

Apply