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First Mate Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mate

Port Arthur, TX · On-site

$41.66 - $57.55/hr

The Mate shall report directly to the Captain and is second in command. As a supervisor, all crew members are subject to his/her orders. Mates are direct representatives of Moran and are responsible ...

As Mate, you will work closely with the Vessel Captain to command the vessel in and out of harbors, rivers, and coastal passages, assist with cargo operations, and stand navigation watch while ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

Boatswain's Mate Category / Component: Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats ...

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First Mate Mate information

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$22

$25

$29

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.
More about First Mate Mate jobs
What states have the most First Mate Mate jobs? States with the most job openings for First Mate Mate jobs include:
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.
Mate

$41.66 - $57.55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday


Moran Towing rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
Moran Towing Corporation (www.morantug.com) has an opportunity available for a Mate, for Moran Port Arthur/Beaumont. This is a full-time position.
Moran Towing Corporation is one of the oldest companies in America and has prospered by continuously reinventing itself for over 160 years. Starting in 1860 as a tugboat company, we have grown from those roots to become a dominant provider of commercial ship docking services, marine transportation, LNG support operations, environmental recovery, and commercial diving services. While economies, cultures, markets, and technology will always continue to evolve, our steadfast commitment to partnering with our employees and customers to solve our customers' marine requirements has enabled us to stay the course year after year.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Mate shall report directly to the Captain and is second in command. As a supervisor, all crew members are subject to his/her orders. Mates are direct representatives of Moran and are responsible for administering Company policies and procedures.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Carrying out all lawful orders issued by the Captain.
  • Being fully conversant with the Safety Management System.
  • Reviewing current operational status of the vessel.
  • Consulting with the Captain regarding vessel operations and specifically how to handle a situation.
  • Reporting unsafe situations or opportunities for improvement.
  • Reporting any violation, including, breach of regulations or Company policies to the Captain.
  • Undertaking maintenance responsibilities under the Captain's direction and delegating responsibilities to other crew members as required.
  • Assisting with training of the crew as directed.
  • Other duties as assigned by the Captain or his/her designee.

REQUIREDQUALIFICATIONS:
  • Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC).
  • Mate of Towing Vessel.
  • Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • STCW certification (if required for service).
  • USCG 719k Physical examination meeting Merchant Mariner Medical certification.
  • Pre-Employment Drug Screening.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Maritime experience working aboard a harbor assist tug.
  • Excellent communication skills.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • Work safely in a marine setting.
  • Walk, sit, or stand for extended periods of time.
  • Frequently reach with hands and arms.
  • Frequently crouch or stoop.
  • Climb/descend stairs and ladders.
  • Occasionally lift and/or carry up to 60 lbs.
  • Occasionally enter and work in enclosed spaces.
  • Withstand exposure to environmental conditions such as heat, rain, cold and or/humidity.

IN RETURN, WE OFFER:
  • Competitive compensation
  • Career development opportunities
  • Team-oriented work environment
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Health Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Company paid Life, AD&D, and Long-Term Disability Insurance Plans
  • Employee Assistance, Health Advocate, and Wellness Programs
  • Generous 401(k) Plan with employer non-elective, matching, and discretionary contributions
  • Company paid Financial Advice Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program

PAY TRANSPARENCY:
Moran Towing Corporation offers generous benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and competitive salaries based on geographic location. Our target pay range for the Mateposition is $41.66 - $57.55 per hour. This pay range represents Moran's commitment to pay transparency and is a reasonable estimate of possible compensation for this role at the time of posting. The final salary for this role will be determined based on careful consideration of a variety of factors, such as the candidate's exact location, experience, and expertise related to the qualifications.
Moran Towing Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, or other legally protected status.