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First Mate Jobs in Wisconsin (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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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First Mate information

See Wisconsin salary details

$10

$30

$75

How much do first mate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for first mate in Wisconsin is $30.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $41.49 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 Wisconsin? For First Mate jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to First Mate jobs in WI? For First Mate jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various First Mate job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 20% Temporary, and 20% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,825 per year, or $30.7 per hour.

Mate (First or Second)

CARDINAL POINT CAPTAINS INC

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$366.64 - $405.40/day

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Location: R/V Lake Guardian, 600 E Greenfield Ave. Milwaukee, WI
Relocation: No relocation offered for this position
Worksite: R/V Lake Guardian, 600 E Greenfield Ave. Milwaukee, WI
Pay: $366.64 - $405.40 per day, plus significant PTO pay-out
Classification: Non-Exempt
Travel: Yes
Job Summary
Cardinal Point Captains, Inc. (CPC) is seeking a qualified, professional candidate to support the EPA 180-foot Research Vessel (R/V) Lake Guardian. The ship sails extensively throughout the Great Lakes from April through October and is homeported in Milwaukee Wisconsin. R/V Lake Guardian is the largest vessel in the U.S. EPA fleet and is used to sample water, aquatic life, sediments, and air to assess the overall health of the Great Lakes ecosystem.
Tasks
  • Stand watch and assist the Captain in navigation and maneuvering of the ship. Maintain navigational equipment and update charts.
  • Conduct regular safety drills and inspections, ensuring compliance with maritime safety regulations.
  • Oversee maintenance and cleanliness of the deck and superstructure, including equipment. Manage the upkeep of the ship's hull, rigging, and deck machinery.
  • Supervise and coordinate the work of deck officers and crew.
  • Maintain logs and records related to navigation, supplies, and safety. Prepare reports for the Captain and company management.
  • Act as a liaison between the Captain and the deck crew.
  • Communicate with port authorities, agents, and other ships.

Requirements
  • The minimum licensing requirement for the Chief Mates is a valid license issued by the USCG with endorsement as Mate of Self-Propelled Vessels of Unlimited Tonnage upon Great Lakes and Inland waters with licensing or MMC officer endorsement required to serve as a pilot on a vessel in the Great Lakes as specified in 46 CFR § 15.812.
  • Experience serving as a Mate onboard research vessels is desirable.
  • Must be able to work collegially with scientists, natural resource managers, and educators.
  • Must be a member, or willing to become a member of the International Organization of Masters, Mates, and Pilots union.
  • Must be able to pass a drug screening and background check.
  • Must maintain a U.S. passport as well as have a valid US state issued driver's license.

AAP/EEO Statement
CPC is an EEO employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, or covered veteran status.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.