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Deck Officer Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

G&H Towing

Mate In Training

Brownsville, TX · On-site

$64K - $128K/yr

For a 12-hour harbor day $329.60 For a 24-hour harbor day $659.20 Schedule: 7 days on and 7 days off the vessel Job Summary Authority The second deck officer on the vessel is the Mate. When ...

G&H Towing

Mate In Training

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

$64K - $128K/yr

For a 12-hour harbor day $329.60 For a 24-hour harbor day $659.20 Schedule: 7 days on and 7 days off the vessel Job Summary Authority The second deck officer on the vessel is the Mate. When ...

ConocoPhillips

3rd Mate - Marine

Houston, TX · On-site

Deck Officer - 3rd Mate Unlimited * Radar Observer * Able Seaman Unlimited * Lifeboatman * Tankerman PIC * Willing and able (with or without reasonable accommodation) to perform the following: * Be ...

Stabbert Offshore Crew

Mate Unlimited

Seattle, WA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

The 2nd Mate is a licensed deck officer responsible for the safe navigation and operations of the vessel, safety management, and ensuring compliance of maritime laws and regulations. They serve as ...

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 ...

City of New York

Mate (Ferry)

Staten Island, NY · On-site

Under the supervision and direction of the Captain, serves as deck officer in charge on scene in ... Coast Guard apply to the position of Mate. Candidates will therefore be required to undergo a ...

City of New York

Mate (Ferry)

Staten Island, NY · On-site

Under the supervision and direction of the Captain, serves as deck officer in charge on scene in ... Coast Guard apply to the position of Mate. Candidates will therefore be required to undergo a ...

AET

Mate

Galveston, TX · On-site

The other mate is responsible for the deck maintenance of the vessel. Key Accountabilities * The ... Personal Survival Techniques, GMDSS Operator, ARPA, Vessel Security Officer, Medical Care Provider ...

Bristol Wave Seafoods

Mate

Unalaska, AK · On-site

The mate is a USCG licensed officer who serves as the backup to the vessel captain. Mate's must be able to supervise and direct all aspects of longline fishing operations including deck operations ...

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Deck Officer Mate information

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$32.5K

$62.1K

$103.5K

How much do deck officer mate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for deck officer mate in the United States is $62,148.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $74,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a deck officer mate?

Deck Officer Mates, also known as mates or deck officers, are licensed mariners responsible for the safe navigation, cargo operations, and overall safety on a vessel. They assist the ship’s captain in directing the crew, managing watch duties, and ensuring compliance with maritime laws and safety protocols. Deck Officer Mates can hold different ranks, such as Chief Mate, Second Mate, or Third Mate, depending on their experience and certification. Their duties also include maintaining ship logs, conducting safety drills, and overseeing the loading and unloading of cargo. In essence, they play a crucial role in ensuring smooth and safe ship operations at sea.

What are some typical challenges a deck officer mate faces during daily operations at sea?

Deck Officer Mates often encounter challenges such as managing navigation during adverse weather, coordinating with multinational crews, and ensuring compliance with international maritime safety regulations. They are responsible for overseeing watchkeeping, cargo operations, and maintenance, which requires strong attention to detail and quick decision-making skills. Effective communication and collaboration with the captain, engineers, and deck crew are essential to ensure smooth and safe vessel operations.

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

To thrive as a Deck Officer Mate, you need a solid understanding of navigation, seamanship, maritime regulations, and typically a relevant maritime degree along with a certification such as an Officer of the Watch (OOW) license. Familiarity with electronic chart display systems (ECDIS), radar, communication equipment, and safety management systems is crucial. Leadership, situational awareness, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These capabilities ensure the safe and efficient operation of a vessel, compliance with international standards, and the well-being of the crew and cargo.

What is the difference between Deck Officer Mate vs Deck Officer Captain?

AspectDeck Officer MateDeck Officer Captain
CertificationsSTCW certifications, Officer of the Watch (OOW)STCW certifications, Master Mariner license
Work EnvironmentBridge team member, assisting in navigation and safetyOverall vessel command, decision-making authority
ResponsibilitiesNavigation, safety checks, cargo operationsVessel operation, crew management, safety compliance

The Deck Officer Mate and Deck Officer Captain roles share certifications and work environments but differ in responsibilities and authority. Mates assist in navigation and safety, while Captains oversee the entire vessel operation. Both positions are essential in maritime industry operations.

Are deck officer mates in demand?

Deck officer mates are generally in demand in the maritime industry due to ongoing global trade and the need for qualified personnel to operate ships safely. Employment opportunities depend on certifications, experience, and the shipping company's requirements, with steady demand in commercial shipping, cruise lines, and offshore industries. Continuous training and compliance with maritime regulations are essential for career advancement and job security.

How much does a deck officer mate make?

A deck officer mate, also known as a third mate, typically earns between $3,000 and $6,000 per month depending on experience, vessel type, and certification level. Salaries can vary based on the shipping company, voyage duration, and maritime regulations, with additional benefits such as overtime pay and allowances for safety equipment and training.

How to become a deck officer mate?

To become a deck officer mate, you typically need to complete maritime education such as a deck officer training program or maritime academy, gain relevant sea time experience, and obtain necessary certifications like the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW). Licensing requirements vary by country but generally include passing written exams and medical fitness tests. Practical skills in navigation, safety procedures, and vessel operations are essential for this role.

What qualifications do you need to be a deck officer mate?

To become a deck officer mate, candidates typically need a valid maritime license or certification such as a Merchant Mariner Credential, along with completion of relevant training and safety courses. Prior experience in navigation, seamanship, or related maritime skills is also often required, depending on the vessel and company standards.

What cities are hiring for Deck Officer Mate jobs?

Cities with the most Deck Officer Mate job openings:

What states have the most Deck Officer Mate jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Deck Officer Mate jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Deck Officer Mate job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 91% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,148 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Licensed Deck Officer

Middleburg Heights, OH • On-site

Interlake Steamship Company
Water Transportation • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Interlake Steamship Companyexternal

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

 

Our Deck Officers, referred to as Mates, are responsible for the safe navigation of our vessels and cargo operations. Engine Department Officers, referred to as Engineers, are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of our vessels' machinery and propulsion plants. 

Many of our officers were previously employed as unlicensed seamen on our vessels. Unlicensed seamen must first meet minimum sea time requirements and take US Coast Guard license exams in order to obtain a license as a Mate/First Class Pilot or Third Assistant Engineer.

All of our officers are members of the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (M.E.B.A.), the nation’s oldest maritime labor union, established in 1875. 

All Interlake officers receive room and board while employed aboard one of our vessels. We also provide paid vacation, pension, medical, and education benefits through M.E.B.A.
 

Deck Officers (Mates)

All Great Lakes deck officers must meet the following requirements: 

  • Valid US Coast Guard license as Mate (Great Lakes)
  • Endorsement as First Class Pilot Of Any Gross Tons Upon The Great Lakes Between Duluth, Gary And Buffalo
  • Valid Unlimited Radar Observer endorsement
  • Valid FCC Marine Radio Operator Permit - See FCC Application Form 605
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) Card
  • Current physical examination
  • Current Department of Transportation Drug Screen
  • Legally eligible to be employed in the United States (Proof of identity and eligibility will be required upon employment) 
  • Requirements for First Class Pilots can be found in the US Code of Federal Regulations or by contacting the US Coast Guard Regional Examination Center in Toledo, Ohio.