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First Mate Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Sunfield, MI · On-site

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Litchfield, MI · On-site

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Houghton, MI · On-site

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Newaygo, MI · On-site

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Lawton, MI · On-site

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Linden, MI · On-site

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Ithaca, MI · On-site

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Newberry, MI · On-site

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Fremont, MI · On-site

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Bangor, MI · On-site

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Mancelona, MI · On-site

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Napoleon, MI · On-site

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Tekonsha, MI · On-site

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Yale, MI · On-site

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Hubbell, MI · On-site

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Perry, MI · On-site

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Concord, MI · On-site

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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All JobsFirst Mate JobsFirst Mate Jobs in Michigan

First Mate information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$26

$65

How much do first mate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for first mate in Michigan is $26.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $35.82 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 typically earns between $30,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on the vessel size, location, and experience. They often work long hours and may need certifications such as STCW or CPR. Compensation can also include benefits like housing or travel allowances.

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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

First mates in the maritime industry typically do not earn $2000 a day; their pay depends on experience, vessel size, and employer. High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed this amount include specialized roles such as corporate executives, certain medical specialists, or high-level consultants, but these are not related to the first mate position. Generally, earning $2000 daily requires advanced skills, certifications, and often work in high-stakes or executive environments.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A first mate on a commercial or private vessel can earn $10,000 or more per month, especially with extensive experience and certifications such as STCW or USCG licenses. These roles often involve working long hours at sea, but do not require a college degree, focusing instead on maritime skills and safety training.

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 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 safety protocols are followed, and may handle maintenance and equipment checks. Strong leadership, seamanship skills, and relevant certifications are typically required for this role.

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.

More about First Mate jobs
What are popular job titles related to First Mate jobs in Michigan? For First Mate jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Mate jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for First Mate jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for First Mate jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most First Mate job openings:
What are popular job titles related to First Mate jobs in MI? For First Mate jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
First Mate jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Mate job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,114 per year, or $26.5 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.

Key responsibilities

  • Ensure the safety of passengers while leading Pointer Boat tours across Little Traverse Bay.

  • Assist in navigating and maneuvering the vessel as needed and carry out the captain's orders.

  • Provide guests with safety instructions and conduct tours by sharing information and anecdotes about local attractions and points of interest.

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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