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First Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Whoi

Second Mate Unlimited

Iselin, NJ · On-site

$45.29/hr

Job Summary Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a Second Mate Unlimited. The position begins 8/21/2026. Reporting to the Master, is a watch officer in the Deck Department ...

New

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 ...

Foss Maritime Company

2nd/3rd Mate Oceans

Seattle, WA · On-site

$720/day

Train on and gain first hand experience with marine propulsion systems, various towing ... What We're Looking For * 500 Ton Mate Near Coastal/Oceans or 3rd Mate Unlimited. * Valid Merchant ...

lynden

Mate of Tow - Alaska

Anchorage, AK

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 ...

U.S. Navy

Boatswain's Mate

Mount Carbon, WV

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 ...

U.S. Navy

Boatswain's Mate

Prattville, AL

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 ...

U.S. Navy

Boatswain's Mate

Lynwood, CA

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 ...

US Navy

Boatswains Mate

Yaphank, NY

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 ...

U.S. Navy

Boatswain's Mate

Springfield, OR

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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All JobsFirst Mate Jobs

First Mate information

See 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 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 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.

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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 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,233 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Mate of Tow - Alaska

Lynden Incorporated

Anchorage, AK • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Bering Marine is seeking a Captain - Mate of Tow. 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 underway. Your expertise will help ensure smooth operations in demanding marine environments.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned mariner with strong vessel-handling skills, a safety-first mindset, and the ability to lead and support crews while operating in some of Alaska's toughest conditions.
If you're a skilled Mate of Tow who thrives in demanding conditions and takes pride in doing the job right, Bering Marine Corporation offers a career unlike any other. Join a stable, family-owned company with a strong team culture and a reputation for getting the job done in Alaska's toughest environments.
Who we are:
Bering Marine Corporation (BMC) is part of the Lynden Family of Companies, connecting communities through transportation and logistics solutions that keep Alaska moving by air, land, and sea.
The work BMC does supports remote communities and critical projects across the state, where problem-solving, teamwork, and grit matter every day. Our shallow-draft fleet delivers building materials, equipment, and seafood through some of the state's most challenging seas and waterways, enabling construction of docks, roads, and airstrips.
What You Will Be Doing
  • Assist the Vessel Captain in determining course and speed on basis of specialized knowledge of wind, weather, tides and current
  • Steer the vessel and may push or pull barges to the destination and berth while avoiding shipping hazards and utilizing various navigation devices.
  • May assist in the oversight of vessel loading and unloading.
  • Track and report crew days and cargo hours and reports it promptly.
  • Keep logs of vessel operations as required by the company or USCG.
  • Ensure crew and vessel safety and upholds the Company's safety policies. Assists Captain in conducting safety meetings, job safety analysis (JSA's), and other reporting conditions.
  • Perform other duties as instructed by Vessel Captain.
  • Teamwork is a must.

What's In It for You:
  • Discretionary bonus program
  • Competitive Alaska wages + annual wage reviews
  • Two medical plans starting as low as $0/month
  • Medical, dental and vision for your family for $222/month (HDHP)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Mental health programs (in-office and virtual)
  • 401(k) with company match + additional contributions
  • No-cost Employee assistance program, life insurance, long term disability and AD&D
  • Tuition Reimbursement program
  • Career advancement through internal promotions
  • Alaska Paid Sick Leave

What We Need from You (required)
  • 5 years' experience as a Mate
  • FCC Radio License
  • Current Coast Guard Physical Card
  • Towing Endorsement
  • USCG License- Mate 200 ton minimum, coastal
  • Radar Endorsement
  • Merchant Marine Document
  • Ideal candidate brings proven Alaska vessel experience and knowledge of local waters and communities we serve

Why should you join us?
  • We're ethical and human. We don't get everything perfect, but we try hard. When we miss the mark, we own it and make it right.
  • We work as a collaborative team built on respect and support.

Fine Print:
All employment offers are contingent on a satisfactory background check and pre-employment drug screen.
Bering Marine is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on any protected status.

Apply