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First Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ssc

Mate, 2nd - Marine

New Orleans, LA · On-site

... First Aid Provider (STCW VI/4), and Automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA). * USCG National Endorsements (Domestic): * 500 GRT Oceans or 1,600 GRT Oceans or higher, Mate Pilot of Towing Oceans (Master ...

City of New York

Mate (Ferry)

Staten Island, NY · On-site

... first aid, vessel to vessel transfer, abandon ship procedures, the SMS and the CSP. Under the ... Coast Guard apply to the position of Mate. Candidates will therefore be required to undergo a ...

City of New York

Mate (Ferry)

Staten Island, NY · On-site

... first aid, vessel to vessel transfer, abandon ship procedures, the SMS and the CSP. Under the ... Coast Guard apply to the position of Mate. Candidates will therefore be required to undergo a ...

City of New York

Mate (Ferry)

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

... first aid, vessel to vessel transfer, abandon ship procedures, the SMS and the CSP. Under the ... Coast Guard apply to the position of Mate. Candidates will therefore be required to undergo a ...

City of New York

Mate (Ferry)

Staten Island, NY · On-site

... first aid, vessel to vessel transfer, abandon ship procedures, the SMS and the CSP. Under the ... Coast Guard apply to the position of Mate. Candidates will therefore be required to undergo a ...

Lynden Incorporated

Mate of Tow - Alaska

Anchorage, AK · On-site

As Mate, you will work closely with the Vessel Captain to command the vessel in and out of harbors ... The ideal candidate is a seasoned mariner with strong vessel-handling skills, a safety-first ...

City of New York

Mate (Ferry)

Staten Island, NY · On-site

... first aid, vessel to vessel transfer, abandon ship procedures, the SMS and the CSP. Under the ... Coast Guard apply to the position of Mate. Candidates will therefore be required to undergo a ...

Sause Bros

Mate Northwest

Coos Bay, OR · On-site

It is the responsibility of the Mate to see that all deck operations and procedures are carried out in accordance with approved company policies and procedures Responsibilities/Performance Standards ...

Resolve Marine

Chief Mate

AK · On-site

Must have MMC with USCG endorsement of minimum Third Mate of Motor propelled vessels unlimited, upon Oceans with Towing endorsement * Must have a current USCG License for Third Mate with required ...

Foss Maritime

2nd/3rd Mate Oceans

Seattle, WA · On-site

$720/day

About the Role As a union mate you'll be an essential part of our mission to provide safe and ... Train on and gain first hand experience with marine propulsion systems, various towing ...

Foss Maritime

2nd/3rd Mate Oceans

Seattle, WA · On-site

$720/day

About the Role As a union mate you'll be an essential part of our mission to provide safe and ... Train on and gain first hand experience with marine propulsion systems, various towing ...

BMLP

Mate

New Haven, CT · On-site

General Expectations As a Mate, you will be working and living aboard during your on-hitch period. Basic expectations and responsibilities include navigating, towing operations, basic computer ...

lynden

Mate of Tow - Alaska

Anchorage, AK · On-site

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 ...

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First Mate information

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How much do first mate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for first mate in the United States is $30.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $41.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

How much does a first mate make?

A first mate's salary varies based on experience, vessel size, and employer, but typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 per month. They are responsible for assisting the captain, managing crew, and ensuring safety on board, often requiring certifications such as STCW and maritime experience.
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First Mate jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Mate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,233 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Mate, 2nd - Marine

ssc

New Orleans, LA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Benefits you receive when working with Savage:

  • Travel assistance to & from vessel paid for by employer
  • A culture that appreciates team members
  • Profit Sharing
  • Excellent Benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match
  • Opportunity for growth 
  • A commitment to helping our team members do things that they never dreamed possible

Job Summary:
The Mate is primarily responsible for conducting cargo operations, oversee deck hands, perform and supervise deck maintenance duties, and stand a navigational watch (Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (OICNW). The Cargo Mate reports directly to the Master for navigational duties and for maintenance and safety related duties, and additional duties as assigned.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Performs inspection, testing and maintenance of deck and cargo machinery and systems as well as all firefighting, lifesaving and safety equipment onboard.
  • The Mate performs Bridge Standing Orders, Logbook Maintenance, Bridge Checklists, Emergency Checklists, Emergency Drills and Exercises, Emergency Equipment Inspection, Emergency Instructions, Work-rest oversight and documentation, Crew Sign-on, Onboard Familiarization, and manage crew changes.
  • Obtain working knowledge of the Safety Management System and comply with all procedures outlined within as relating to the position.
  • Accurately report and record maintenance related activities.

Requirements/Qualifications:

  • Must hold the following USCG Merchant Mariner Credential international and national endorsements capable of foreign voyages:
    • International STCW Endorsements:
      • Officer In Charge of a Navigation Watch (STCW A-II/I-OINCW 500 Gross Tons or more), Able Seafarer-Deck (STCW II/5), RFPNW (STCW II/4), STCW Basic Safety Training (STCW VI/1), PSC (STCW VI/2), Vessel Security Officer (STCW VI/5), Medical First Aid Provider (STCW VI/4), and Automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA).
    • USCG National Endorsements (Domestic):
      • 500 GRT Oceans or 1,600 GRT Oceans or higher, Mate Pilot of Towing Oceans (Master Towing Oceans preferred), Lifeboatman, Deck Officer – Radar Observer (Unlimited), and FCC License. Tankerman PIC Barge limited to Dangerous Liquid (DL) Cargoes.
  • Must have current USCG/STCW medical certificate, renewed every 2 years
  • Must have a valid TWIC card and Passport

Education/Experience:

  • High School diploma
  • Articulated Tug/Barge experience preferred

Physical Requirements:

  • Able to work in confined spaces, carrying heavy tools, climbing and descending ladders, consistently asked to lift and carry loads at least 40 pounds
  • Must have current USCG STCW Medical Certificate, renewed every 2 year

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