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Deck Hand First Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Supervise and direct all deck personnel. * Supervise all operations of the vessel not involving the ... USCG Mate's License (min. 500 tons) * USCG Medical Emergency response training. * USCG Drill ...

Overseeing the deck maintenance and inventory. * Participating in navigation and watch keeping and ... STCW, minimum 50T USCG Master/Mate Coastal License. * Valid US Driver's license. * The vessel is ...

Supervise and direct all deck personnel. * Supervise all operations of the vessel not involving the ... USCG Mate's License (min. 500 tons) * USCG Medical Emergency response training. * USCG Drill ...

Supervise and direct all deck personnel. * Supervise all operations of the vessel not involving the ... USCG Mate's License (min. 500 tons) * USCG Medical Emergency response training. * USCG Drill ...

Title: Boatswain's Mate Location: Jacksonville, FL. (Blount Island) Compensation: $32 p/h ... deck What You'll Bring * Strong work ethic and attention to detail * Team-first mentality and ...

The First Mate assists the Captain to safely moor, operate, and maintain company vessels. The First ... Assign deck crew tasks and provide direction. * Supervise and perform routine shipboard maintenance ...

The First Mate assists the Captain to safely moor, operate, and maintain company vessels. The First ... Assign deck crew tasks and provide direction. * Supervise and perform routine shipboard maintenance ...

Mate

Unalaska, AK · On-site

Our deck and processing crews work 16-hour shifts, 7 days a week. Most trips average 4-5 weeks in ... Vessel officers are eligible to enroll on the first day of the month after a one-month waiting ...

It is the responsibility of the Mate to see that all deck operations and procedures are carried out in accordance with approved company policies and procedures Responsibilities/Performance Standards ...

From taking the first citizen explorers to Antarctica in 1966, opening the Galapagos and Easter ... Trains deck force in skills needed to perform docking, anchoring, watch duties, security and ...

Mate

Unalaska, AK · On-site

Our deck and processing crews work 16-hour shifts, 7 days a week. Most trips average 4-5 weeks in ... Vessel officers are eligible to enroll on the first day of the month after a one-month waiting ...

From taking the first citizen explorers to Antarctica in 1966, opening the Galapagos and Easter ... Trains deck force in skills needed to perform docking, anchoring, watch duties, security and ...

From taking the first citizen explorers to Antarctica in 1966, opening the Galapagos and Easter ... Trains deck force in skills needed to perform docking, anchoring, watch duties, security and ...

From taking the first citizen explorers to Antarctica in 1966, opening the Galapagos and Easter ... Trains deck force in skills needed to perform docking, anchoring, watch duties, security and ...

Chief Mate

Seattle, WA · On-site

$520 - $572/day

From taking the first citizen explorers to Antarctica in 1966, opening the Galapagos and Easter ... Trains deck force in skills needed to perform docking, anchoring, watch duties, security and ...

Chief Mate

Seattle, WA

$520 - $572/day

From taking the first citizen explorers to Antarctica in 1966, opening the Galapagos and Easter ... Trains deck force in skills needed to perform docking, anchoring, watch duties, security and ...

From taking the first citizen explorers to Antarctica in 1966, opening the Galapagos and Easter ... Trains deck force in skills needed to perform docking, anchoring, watch duties, security and ...

Mate

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$32.15 - $53.58/hr

Mate I, II, III will work directly with the Port Captain, and Vessel Captain, applying our three ... work below decks in an area that may experience periods of darkness; work in confined spaces ...

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Deck Hand First Mate information

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How much do deck hand first mate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for deck hand first mate in the United States is $25.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a deck hand first mate?

Deck Hand First Mates are crew members on boats or ships who assist with the daily operations, maintenance, and navigation of the vessel. They typically help with tasks such as handling ropes and lines, cleaning and maintaining the deck, assisting with docking and undocking, and sometimes supporting the captain with navigation and safety procedures. A First Mate may also supervise other deckhands and serve as the second-in-command, ensuring that safety standards are met and that all deck operations run smoothly. This role requires a good understanding of seamanship, teamwork, and the ability to work in various weather conditions.

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

To thrive as a Deck Hand First Mate, you need strong seamanship skills, physical fitness, and usually a valid STCW certification or equivalent maritime qualifications. Familiarity with shipboard equipment, navigational tools, and safety protocols is essential for daily operations. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities help you coordinate with crew and respond effectively in challenging situations. These skills ensure safe vessel operation, efficient teamwork, and compliance with maritime regulations.

What are some common challenges a deck hand first mate faces when working on a vessel, and how can they be managed?

Deck Hand First Mates often face challenges such as long hours, physically demanding tasks, and adapting to changing weather conditions. Effective communication and teamwork are essential for handling emergencies and daily operations smoothly. To manage these challenges, it's important to stay physically fit, follow safety procedures, and maintain strong working relationships with the crew and captain. Developing problem-solving skills and staying adaptable also contribute to a successful and rewarding experience in this role.

What is the difference between Deck Hand First Mate vs Deck Hand?

AspectDeck Hand First MateDeck Hand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, CPR, First AidBasic safety training, CPR
Work EnvironmentOnboard yachts, ships, or boats, often with leadership dutiesOnboard vessels, assisting with maintenance and operations
ResponsibilitiesAssist captain, oversee deck crew, safety proceduresAssist with deck work, cleaning, maintenance

The Deck Hand First Mate typically has more certifications and leadership responsibilities compared to a Deck Hand. While both work onboard vessels and assist with deck operations, the First Mate often oversees safety and crew management, making it a more advanced role within the deck crew hierarchy.

Is it hard to get a job as a deck hand first mate?

Becoming a deck hand first mate typically requires experience working as a deckhand, strong seamanship skills, and often a captain's license or certification. Entry into the role can be competitive, but gaining relevant experience and certifications improves job prospects. Physical fitness and the ability to work in challenging conditions are also important.

What cities are hiring for Deck Hand First Mate jobs?

Cities with the most Deck Hand First Mate job openings:

What states have the most Deck Hand First Mate jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Deck Hand First Mate jobs?

For Deck Hand First Mate jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Deck Hand First Mate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,628 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

First Mate

Seattle, WA • On-site

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Excellence. Innovation. Integrity. 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 operations and port calls; coordinates with other vessel departments during fishing operations, offload, backload and during transfer of personnel; inspects all areas of the vessel on an ongoing basis to ensure proper storage of supplies and product. Mates maintain records, reports and documents as required by the company, the US Coast Guard and other agencies. Mates also conduct safety drills and train the crew in performing safe work practices in accordance with OSHA, company policy and other guidelines. Mates provide emergency or routine medical assistance to crew, and coordinate for proper transfer of crew requiring additional medical care. Mates may perform the work of a deckhand as necessary (see Deckhand job description).

Essential Duties

Mates must be able to:

  • Perform vessel navigation and fishing operations of the vessel as directed by captain to include but not limited to:
    • Commercial fishing equipment - Net reel, trawl gear, winches, cranes
    • Navigational equipment - Sonar, radar, fathometer, GPS
    • Communications equipment - VHF, satellite, telex, radio
  • Supervise bridge watch standing activities.
  • Supervise and direct all deck personnel.
  • Supervise all operations of the vessel not involving the direct operation of the factory.
  • Coordinate with all vessel departments and supervise on a continual basis.
  • Manage all at-sea medical and emergency operations.
  • Provide direct medical care to injured crew as necessary.
  • Direct the transfer of crew on and off the vessel.
  • Maintain ships log and prepare all reports as required by the company, USCG and other regulatory agencies.
  • Inspect vessel areas on a regular basis to ensure safe operation and the proper storage of supplies and product.

Work Schedule

  • Typical work hours are 16 hours per day, 7 days per week, however, the Mate is responsible on a 24 hours per day basis.
  • Work hours may be extended as necessary which may result in uneven shifts and sleep patterns.
  • Breaks are determined by the business needs of the fish processing plant. Unplanned, unscheduled breaks are prohibited except in health or safety related incidents.

Work Environment

  • While performing the duties of this job, employees and the vessel will be operating in extremely remote and austere locations; often days away from land or dock facilities.
  • While performing the duties of this job, employees are expected to wear protective clothing and equipment such as rain gear (pants and sleeves), gloves, rubber boots, noise suppression devices, and use as required: hardhat, safety goggles, fire extinguisher, respirator, life preserver and survival suit.
  • Employees will be exposed to various species of fish; wet, humid, and freezing conditions; fish processing equipment such as headers, movable and stationary conveyor systems, knives, hoists, pressure washers, cleaning chemicals, shovels, buckets, baskets, and aluminum pans.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually loud. Employees work onboard a vessel in the ocean which by nature produces varying degrees of motion in the factory.
  • While performing the duties of this job, Mates are regularly exposed to moving machinery, vibration, and risk of electrical shock.

Requirements

Education, Experience

  • Catcher processor captain experience.
  • USCG Mate's License (min. 500 tons)
  • USCG Medical Emergency response training.
  • USCG Drill Instructor training.
  • Earned High School Diploma or GED. Education verification will be required prior to hire.
  • 24 months or more of relevant verifiable work experience in the last 4 years.

Physical Demands

All employees must be able to:

  • Board and exit the vessel by gangplank or Jacob's ladder without assistance.
  • Board or exit a skiff without assistance in all weather conditions.
  • Ascend and descend steep stairways and ladders in all temperatures.
  • Work at least 16 hours per day, 7 days per week for the duration of the contract.
  • Perform repetitive tasks for extended periods of time.
  • Stand and walk; lift weights up to and over 50 pounds for full range from floor to above their head repeatedly.
  • Use fingers, hands, and arms to push, pull and reach.
  • Bend and twist.
  • Stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.
  • Work long hours in all kinds of weather.
  • Work in a cold and wet environment.
  • Don life jacket, life vest and/or survival suit without assistance.
  • Must be able to pass pre-employment and random drug tests per USCG regulations. This job is designated by O'Hara Corporation to be Safety Sensitive, and a pre-employment drug screen is part of the hiring process.

Mental Activities

All employees must be able to:

  • Ability to understand and have the ability to communicate in English for emergency, safety, and training purposes is required.
  • Use interpersonal and teamwork skills.
  • Live and work with others in close quarters.
  • Be away from medical care and supervision for 3+ months at a time.
  • Share crew quarters, bathroom facilities, and common dining areas with other crew members.
  • Discern between various shades of color for reading navigational equipment, charts, identifying and sorting various fish species as well as for safety signs, alarms and warnings.

Benefits

  • Medical, vision and dental insurance is offered to employees and qualified dependents, if elected.
  • 401(k) with employer match after one year of employment, if elected.
  • Meals, snacks, and beverages provided including diverse cuisine options while at sea. (Additional at-sea store available for specialty items to purchase and have deducted from paycheck)
  • O'Hara will book and pre-pay flight and lodging from Point of Hire- Seattle, WA to Dutch Harbor, AK.

Compensation

  • Crew-share compensation
  • $850 - $1150 average daily rate DOE

O'Hara Corporation provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.