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First Mate Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/FUNCTIONS: 1. Assist First Mate with crew work assignments. 2. Stand sea watch and pilot/navigate vessel in a safe and proficient manner. 3. Operate and maintain vessel equipment in ...

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 ...

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 ...

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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Showing results 1-20

First Mate information

See Hawaii salary details

$10

$31

$77

How much do first mate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for first mate in Hawaii is $31.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $42.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 expertise in navigation, seamanship, and maritime safety regulations, usually backed by relevant certifications such as an STCW endorsement or Officer of the Watch license. Familiarity with ship management systems, radar, GPS, and communication equipment is essential. Leadership, quick decision-making, and strong teamwork skills help manage crew operations and respond to emergencies. These competencies are crucial for ensuring vessel safety, operational efficiency, and smooth coordination at sea.

How much does a First Mate get paid?

A First Mate's salary typically ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on the vessel size, location, and experience. They often earn additional compensation through overtime, bonuses, and benefits, especially on commercial or private yachts. Certification in safety and navigation is usually required for higher-paying positions.

What are the career paths for a First Mate?

A First Mate can advance to roles such as Captain or Marine Superintendent with experience and additional certifications like a captain's license. They may also transition into maritime management, safety inspection, or specialized roles such as yacht management or maritime consulting.

What are First Mates?

A First Mate is the second-in-command on a ship, directly under the captain. They are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the vessel, supervising the crew, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. The First Mate also assists in navigation, handles logistics, and may take command if the captain is unavailable. Their role is crucial for the smooth running and safety of the ship and its crew.

What Does a First Mate Do?

As a first mate or chief officer aboard a ship, you work under the supervision of the captain to perform navigational responsibilities, operate various ship systems, and direct the deck crew. You are second in command and help ensure the safety of the ship and crew. Your duties include steering, de-watering, working with electronic navigation aids, maintaining the deck log, planning the loading and unloading of cargo, and providing boat maintenance. You can find a first mate on every ship, from a sail boat to a cargo ship, sailing on the coast or out in the deep sea. Your maritime qualifications and necessary skills differ by the type of boat, but your tasks are similar.

What are some common challenges a First Mate faces when managing deck operations and crew coordination?

As a First Mate, one of the main challenges is balancing the safe and efficient running of deck operations while ensuring clear communication and coordination among the crew. This often involves addressing unexpected weather conditions, troubleshooting equipment issues, and adapting to changing schedules. Managing a diverse team with varying experience levels and maintaining morale during long voyages can also be demanding. Proactive leadership and effective delegation are essential to overcoming these challenges and ensuring smooth ship operations.

What jobs pay 700 a day?

First mates in the maritime industry can earn around $700 per day, especially with experience, certifications, and working on large vessels or in high-demand regions. Other high-paying jobs that can reach this daily rate include specialized trades, certain consulting roles, and freelance professionals with in-demand skills. These positions often require specific qualifications, experience, and sometimes irregular or extended hours.

What is a First Mate's job?

A First Mate is the second-in-command on a vessel, responsible for assisting the captain with navigation, safety, and crew management. They oversee daily operations, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and may handle maintenance and logistics onboard.

What is the difference between First Mate vs Deckhand?

AspectFirst MateDeckhand
Required CredentialsSTCW certification, maritime experienceBasic safety training, maritime experience often preferred
Work EnvironmentOnboard yachts, ships, or boats, supervising crewOnboard vessels, assisting with maintenance and operations
Employer & Industry UsageYacht charters, commercial shipping, private vesselsRecreational boats, commercial ships, yachts
Common Search & ComparisonFirst Mate vs Deckhand

The main difference between a First Mate and a Deckhand lies in their responsibilities and experience level. The First Mate holds a supervisory role, overseeing deck crew and ensuring safety, often requiring certifications like STCW. In contrast, a Deckhand performs hands-on tasks such as cleaning, maintenance, and assisting with navigation, typically with less experience and fewer certifications. Both roles are essential onboard vessels, but the First Mate has greater leadership duties and responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to First Mate jobs in Hawaii? For First Mate jobs in Hawaii, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Hawaii are hiring for First Mate jobs? Cities in Hawaii with the most First Mate job openings:
What are popular job titles related to First Mate jobs in HI? For First Mate jobs in HI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various First Mate job openings in Hawaii as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,697 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Second Mate - Honolulu, HI

Second Mate - Honolulu, HI

Young Brothers

Honolulu, HI • On-site

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Back
28d
Second Mate
#007-4433
Honolulu, Hawaii, United States
Apply
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Req. Number
007-4433
Posting Date
Jun 16, 2026
Address
1331 N. Nimitz Highway Pier 39/40, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817, United States
Job Description

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 watch and pilot/navigate vessel in a safe and proficient manner.
3. Operate and maintain vessel equipment in a safe and proficient manner.
4. Assist in docking of barges in a safe and proficient manner.
OTHER DUTIES/FUNCTIONS:
1. Meets with First Mate and Master of vessel to determine work assignments.


WORKING CONDITIONS:
Works indoors and outdoors in various weather and sea conditions in wet, humid, noisy, and dusty
areas. Frequently uses paints, solvents, and thinners.
Equipment use:
Uses wheelhouse controls to pilot/navigate vessel. Uses basic hand and hand-held power tools.
May drive company vehicles.
Work hours:
Normal work hours vary according to vessel assignment and sailing schedule. Normal work days
are Monday - Sunday.

MENTAL DEMANDS:
Shall have sufficient mathematical ability to determine ship's position, speed, and ETA. Shall be
attentive to detail and alert at all times to ensure safety of vessel and crew. Shall be able to receive
and follow instructions and be able to communicate with coworkers and supervisory personnel.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
1. Sitting: Sits when piloting/navigating vessel and splicing lines. SELDOM
2. Climbing/Jumping/Balancing: Climbs/Jumps from pier to vessel, vessel to barge, and vice
versa. Balances while on vessel and barges in various harbor water conditions.
FREQUENTLY
3. Stooping/Kneeling/Crouching/Crawling: Stoops, etc. to pick up and place lines, towing
gears, and when performing general maintenance and sanitary duties. FREQUENTLY
4. Squatting: Squats while performing general maintenance. FREQUENTLY
5. Twisting: Twists when piloting/navigating vessel, handling lines, and performing general
maintenance. FREQUENTLY
6. Walking: Walks when handling lines, docking barges, and performing general maintenance.
FREQUENTLY
7. Reaching: Reaches when piloting/navigating vessel, handling lines, and performing general
maintenance. FREQUENTLY
8. Handling/Fingering: Handles/Fingers lines, parts, and wheelhouse controls.
OCCASIONALLY
9. Eye-hand-foot coordination: Coordinates movements when piloting/navigating, docking
barges, and performing general maintenance. CONTINUOUSLY
10. Vision (corrected, depth, wide field, and color): 20/40 correctable vision in each eye and
color sense as required by US Coast Guard. Depth perception and a wide field of vision
required to ensure safety of vessel and crew when navigating and docking barges.
FREQUENTLY
11. Pushing/Pulling/Lifting/Carrying (up to 50 pounds): Pushes and carries tools, equipment,
and stores. Pulls and lifts lines and equipment. FREQUENTLY


QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS (Licenses, Degrees, Certificates):
Required to possess a US Coast Guard License, Mate of Steam or Motor Vessels, of at least 200
GRT Near Coastal with a towing endorsement. Oceans endorsement is preferred. Required are
current radar observer endorsement and FCC marine radiotelephone operator permit. STCW 95
endorsement preferred. Valid driver's license for possible use of company vehicles, preferred. If
you are an in-house (current) employee, and have not already completed Young Brothers, Ltd.
Training Syllabus as detailed in YB Forms 23A and 23D, you have 90 days from your effective date
of reclassification to complete the Training Syllabus. . For external candidates applying for this
position, if selected a new employee must complete the Young Brothers Ltd., Training Syllabus as
detailed in YB Forms 23A and 23D prior to standing watch on an unsupervised basis, and in all
such cases prior to the expiration of the new employee's 90 day probationary period.


Skills/Knowledge: Ability to pilot/navigate vessel through the use of radio, radar, electronic
navigational equipment, navigational aids, and charting. Ability to operate and utilize basic hand
and hand-held power tools and deck equipment. Must be familiar with and be able to
navigate/pilot in both harbor and offshore waters; must have good, proven judgment in operating
tug and in handling equipment and machinery; must be able to communicate with other vessels
and the harbor pilots via VHF radio. Basic computer skills are preferred. Supervisory skills and
leadership characteristics are highly desirable.


Education/Training: Must have sufficient verbal, reading and writing skills as required by the job
(i.e. delegating assignments to crew members, receiving instructions from supervisor, reading
instructions, writing job assignments, requests etc. High School Diploma or GED equivalent is
required.
Experience: Total service of 18 months, of which 12 months must be on Towing Vessels.


POSITION CONTENT: This job description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all
inclusive list of all the responsibilities, skills, or working conditions associated with the position. While it is
intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements, management reserves the right to
modify, add or remove duties, and assign other duties as necessary.

Compensation
64.0185