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First Mate Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Young Brothers LLC

Second Mate

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$24.75 - $27.75/hr

PRIMARY PURPOSE: Assist First Mate and Master of vessel as required in day-to-day operational activities. ESSENTIAL DUTIES/FUNCTIONS: 1. Assist First Mate with crew work assignments. 2. Stand sea ...

NOW Hiring Heroes

Boatswain's Mate

Jacksonville, FL

$32/hr

Team-first mentality and communication skills * Commitment to safety and operational excellence Apply If You Are * A former Navy Boatswain's Mate transitioning to civilian maritime work * Experienced ...

Curtin Maritime

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 core values of Innovation, Integrity, and Efficiency and maintaining the Curtin Standard onboard. WHAT ...

Curtin Maritime, Corp

Mate

Long Beach, CA

$32.15 - $53.58/day

Mate I, II, III will work directly with the Port Captain, and Vessel Captain, applying our three core values of Innovation, Integrity, and Efficiency and maintaining the Curtin Standard onboard. WHAT ...

Curtin Maritime

Mate

Long Beach, CA · On-site

Mate I, II, III will work directly with the Port Captain, and Vessel Captain, applying our three core values of Innovation, Integrity, and Efficiency and maintaining the Curtin Standard onboard. WHAT ...

Now Hiring Heroes

Boatswain's Mate

Jacksonville, FL

$32/hr

Team-first mentality and communication skills * Commitment to safety and operational excellence Apply If You Are * A former Navy Boatswain's Mate transitioning to civilian maritime work * Experienced ...

Fairwater

Third Mate - Tankers

Dania Beach, FL

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 ...

Stabbert Offshore Crew

Mate Unlimited

Seattle, WA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Position Summary: 2nd Mate: The 2nd Mate is a licensed deck officer responsible for the safe ... Strong work ethics, values, and principles with safety as the first priority * Understand and be ...

Young Brothers

Second Mate

Honolulu, HI

$24.75 - $27.75/hr

PRIMARY PURPOSE: Assist First Mate and Master of vessel as required in day-to-day operational activities. ESSENTIAL DUTIES/FUNCTIONS: 1. Assist First Mate with crew work assignments. 2. Stand sea ...

New

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 ... Vessel officers are eligible to enroll on the first day of the month after a one-month waiting ...

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 ... Vessel officers are eligible to enroll on the first day of the month after a one-month waiting ...

Sause Bros

Mate Northwest

Coos Bay, OR · On-site

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 ...

Lynden Incorporated

Mate of Tow - Alaska

Anchorage, AK · On-site

As Mate, you will work closely with the Vessel Captain to command the vessel in and out of harbors ... The ideal candidate is a seasoned mariner with strong vessel-handling skills, a safety-first ...

BMLP

Mate

New Haven, CT · On-site

General Expectations As a Mate, you will be working and living aboard during your on-hitch period. Basic expectations and responsibilities include navigating, towing operations, basic computer ...

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First Mate Mate information

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How much do first mate mate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for first mate 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 does a First Mate do on a ship?

A First Mate, also known as Chief Mate or First Officer, is the second-in-command on a ship, directly below the Captain. Their main responsibilities include overseeing the crew, ensuring the safety and security of the vessel, managing navigation and operations, and supervising cargo loading and unloading. The First Mate also handles emergency procedures and maintains compliance with maritime regulations. This role requires strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and extensive knowledge of maritime operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Mate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Mate, you need strong seamanship, navigation skills, and a solid understanding of maritime safety protocols, often backed by a relevant maritime certification or license. Familiarity with radar, GPS, electronic chart systems, and vessel maintenance tools is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for managing crew and handling emergencies. These skills ensure the safe operation of the vessel, efficient teamwork, and compliance with maritime regulations.

What is the difference between First Mate Mate vs Captain?

AspectFirst Mate MateCaptain
CertificationsSTCW certifications, maritime safety trainingSame as First Mate Mate, plus additional leadership certifications
Work EnvironmentDeck crew, assisting with navigation and maintenanceOverall vessel command, decision-making authority
Industry UsageYachting, small commercial vesselsCommercial shipping, large yachts, cruise ships

The First Mate Mate and Captain roles share similar certifications and work environments, especially in yachting and small vessels. The main difference is that the Captain holds overall command and decision-making authority, while the First Mate Mate assists and supports the Captain in daily operations.

What are some common challenges that First Mates face when managing crew operations on board?

First Mates frequently encounter challenges such as coordinating diverse crew members with varying experience levels, ensuring effective communication during fast-paced or emergency situations, and maintaining safety and compliance with maritime regulations. They are also responsible for overseeing maintenance and navigation tasks, which requires attention to detail and the ability to adapt quickly to changing conditions at sea. Successful First Mates develop strong leadership and conflict resolution skills to keep operations running smoothly and ensure the well-being of everyone on board.
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First Mate Mate jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Mate Mate job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 10% Full Time, and 87% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,628 per year, or $25.8 per hour.
First Mate - Pointer Boat

First Mate - Pointer Boat

Hotel Investment Services

Harbor Springs, MI • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

The Pointer has been taking passengers across the summer waters of Little Traverse Bay since 1934. Join our crew this summer as we celebrate her 91st year of operation. (For more information about the Pointer, click HERE.)

Job Summary

The First Mate ensures the safety of our passengers while leading Pointer Boat tours across Little Traverse Bay, providing information to individuals and groups on local attractions and areas of interest.

Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Assist in navigating and maneuvering vessel if needed.
  • Performs routine shipboard cleaning and general upkeep as required.
  • Carry out captain's orders.
  • Work with restaurant staff to coordinate food and beverage service onboard.
  • Act as second in command if captain is incapacitated.
  • Maintain deck log and passenger manifests.
  • Take part in safety drills as required.
  • Provides guests and visitors with initial safety and administrative information and direction.
  • Conducts tour or excursion while providing interesting and entertaining information about popular locations or specific points of interest.
  • Retells and relays important or interesting historical facts, dates, and anecdotes.
  • Tailors tour content to the age and interest of guests and visitors.
  • Maintains compliance with all applicable safety practices, environmental regulations, and establishment policies.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.
Required Skills/Abilities:
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with proven ability to facilitate conversations and stimulate large groups on long trips.
  • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Thorough understanding and knowledge of tour area including information related to its history, geography, scenic attractions, or other areas of interest.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to provide tours that are clear, informative, and entertaining.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills with proven ability to improvise when unexpected problems or emergencies arise.
Education and Experience:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Successful completion of on-the-job training required.
  • Necessary licensing required.
Physical Requirements:
  • Prolonged periods standing and walking.
  • Physically able to speak for long periods of time while walking without becoming winded.
  • Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

Job Details:

Job Type: Seasonal

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