1

First Mate Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Boatswains Mate Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview Boatswains Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ships crew. They handle small boats, maintain ...

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 ...

Boatswains Mate Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview Boatswains Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ships crew. They handle small boats, maintain ...

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 ...

Boatswains Mate Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview Boatswains Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ships crew. They handle small boats, maintain ...

Boatswains Mate Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview Boatswains Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ships crew. They handle small boats, maintain ...

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 ...

Boatswains Mate Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview Boatswains Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ships crew. They handle small boats, maintain ...

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 ...

Boatswains Mate Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview Boatswains Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ships crew. They handle small boats, maintain ...

Boatswains Mate Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview Boatswains Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ships crew. They handle small boats, maintain ...

Boatswains Mate Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview Boatswains Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ships crew. They handle small boats, maintain ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

First Mate information

See Texas salary details

$9

$28

$69

How much do first mate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for first mate in Texas is $28.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $38.32 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.

What is a first mate?

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 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 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 Texas? For First Mate jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for First Mate jobs? Cities in Texas with the most First Mate job openings:
What are popular job titles related to First Mate jobs in TX? For First Mate jobs in TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various First Mate job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,911 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

First Mate (Relief Captain)

Callan Marine Ltd

Galveston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY

As a first mate, you will, under the supervision of the captain, be accountable for the safe operation of the vessel, including, but not limited to, navigational responsibilities, operation of various ship systems, and directing the various crew leaders of the vessel. As the second in command, you will be responsible, alongside the captain, for the safety and security of the vessel, crew, and equipment.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Responsible for assisting the captain in the safety of the crew members.
  • Assisting the captain in voyage plans, navigation, and operation of the vessel.
  • Assisting the captain with vessel inspections and certifications.
  • Supervising and coordinating activities of the various crews on the vessel delegating daily tasks to ensure operational success.
  • Performing regular maintenance and safety checks on the vessel’s equipment and systems.
  • Operating the vessel and maintaining stability during operations.
  • Steering and operating vessel, using e-charts, radios, depth finders, radars, lights, buoys, or lighthouses.
  • Keeping accurate logs while on duty as well as Daily Project Reports (DPR)
  • Preparing vessel documents, port call documents, provision orders, purchase orders, etc.
  • Maintaining vessel inventory and updates for bridge equipment.
  • Maintaining accurate crew schedules following IMO Crew Rest Hours. 
  • Inspect vessel to ensure efficient and safe operation of equipment and conformance to Coast Guard inspection regulations. 
  • Preparation, management, facilitation, and completion of safety meetings, safety drills, Job Safety Analysis and/or Hazard Analysis. 
  • Follows company and work site safety policies/procedures and commits to an “incident and injury free” work environment. 
  • Performs other related duties as assigned. 

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Credentials must list mate, pilot, or master with indication for mate of towing vessels.
  • Credentials must have at least a 300 gross tonnage endorsement.
  • Credentials must have proper route endorsement for inland or nearshore routes. Western Rivers or Great Lakes only endorsements are NOT sufficient.
  • Must be able to multitask safely and efficiently.
  • Must have good communications skills with both crew and office.
  • Must have the ability to travel and stay aboard vessel for 21 day hitch.
  • Credentials must have proper route endorsement for inland or nearshore routes. Western Rivers or Great Lakes only endorsements are NOT sufficient.
  • Must be able to multitask safely and efficiently.
  • Must have good communications skills with both crew and office.
  • Must have the ability to travel and stay aboard vessel for 21 day hitch.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

The employee must perform the job's essential functions with or without reasonable workplace accommodation.

The individual must also be able to wear and properly utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to work or visit within areas where it is required. This includes hard hat, safety glasses, life vest, respirators, ear plugs, steel toed shoes, personal flotation devices (PFD’s), or other protective equipment as required by the work performed and location the work is being done.

In addition, the employee must also be capable of:

  • Walking, stepping, climbing, or otherwise moving from one location on the job site to another, which may be of varying heights and access parameters.
  • Standing, stooping, twisting, bending, crouching, kneeling, squatting, climbing, or sitting repetitively and/or for long periods of time.
  • Repetitive movements by feet, shoulders, arms, wrists, hands and back in performance of work.
  • Must be able to lift and carry 30lbs individually. Anything greater than 30lbs and up to 60lbs will require additional lifting means.
  • Must be able to push and pull at peak force of 150lbs.
  • Climbing stairs and/or vertical ladders of a height of 6ft or greater.
  • Working in confined work areas and/or elevated heights.
  • Adapting to temperature changes, outdoor conditions, and prolonged exposure to dusty, wet, or humid conditions, loud noises, and vibration.

The Company expects and requires all employees to observe and fulfill all safety responsibilities as outlined in workplace safety training, and actively work toward maintaining a safe workplace. Failure to do so can result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Regular attendance and punctuality are required of all employees.

Callan Marine, Ltd. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of and will not be discriminated against based on gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age, veteran status, disability status, genetic information, or any other protected category.

Callan Marine, Ltd. reserves the right to revise or change job duties and responsibilities as the need arises.  This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment. Employment at Callan Marine, Ltd. is on an “at-will” basis. Employment security cannot be guaranteed for or by any employee.