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License Third Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

A third mate is a licensed member of the deck department of a merchant ship. The third mate is a watchstander and customarily the ship's safety officer and fourth-in-command. The position is junior ...

3rd Mate

Houston, TX · On-site

Valid Unlimited 3rd Mate Licenses (Home country and Flag state) * Knowledge of all technical calculations required for the safe operation of the marine aspect of the vessel. * Basic computer skills

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique ... Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining ...

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License Third Mate information

See salary details

$15

$34

$76

How much do license third mate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for license third mate in the United States is $34.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between License Third Mate vs License Second Mate?

AspectLicense Third MateLicense Second Mate
Required CredentialsSTCW Basic Safety, FCC license, and a third mate licenseSTCW Advanced Safety, additional sea service, and a second mate license
Work EnvironmentEntry-level deck officer on ships, safety duties, navigationMore advanced navigation, watchkeeping, and safety responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageMaritime shipping companies, cargo ships, tankersSimilar industry, more senior vessels, larger ships

The License Third Mate is an entry-level deck officer license, focusing on safety and navigation, while the License Second Mate is a more advanced certification with increased responsibilities. Both roles are essential in maritime operations, with the second mate typically overseeing more complex navigation tasks and safety procedures on larger vessels.

What are some common challenges faced by a Licensed Third Mate, and how can they be effectively managed?

A Licensed Third Mate often faces challenges such as adapting to long periods at sea, managing fatigue during shift work, and ensuring clear communication with the bridge team. Navigational responsibilities require constant vigilance and the ability to make quick decisions in dynamic conditions. Successfully managing these challenges involves maintaining strong situational awareness, practicing effective time management, and fostering collaborative relationships with crewmates to ensure safety and efficiency on board.

What is a License Third Mate?

A License Third Mate is an entry-level licensed officer position on a merchant ship, responsible for navigation, safety, and supervising deck operations. The Third Mate assists in watchkeeping duties, ensures compliance with regulations, and manages emergency equipment. They typically serve as the safety officer onboard and report directly to the Chief Mate. To become a Licensed Third Mate, individuals must complete specific maritime education and pass U.S. Coast Guard or equivalent examinations. This role is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of ocean-going vessels.

How much does a 3rd mate make on a ship?

A third mate on a ship typically earns between $3,000 and $6,000 per month, depending on the vessel, experience, and the shipping company. This role requires certification such as STCW and involves safety, navigation, and cargo operations, often with offshore or international schedules.

What is a 3rd mate license?

A 3rd mate license is a certification that authorizes a maritime officer to serve as a third mate on a vessel, typically responsible for safety, navigation, and cargo operations. It requires passing exams, gaining sea time experience, and meeting specific training standards set by maritime authorities.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Certain high-level maritime roles such as a licensed third mate can earn around $2,000 per day, especially when working on large vessels or in specialized environments. These positions typically require extensive experience, certifications like STCW, and often involve long shifts or offshore work. Compensation varies based on the employer, location, and the complexity of the vessel or operation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Licensed Third Mate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Licensed Third Mate, you need a solid understanding of navigation, cargo operations, and maritime safety, typically supported by a U.S. Coast Guard Third Mate license and a degree from a maritime academy. Proficiency in using radar, ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System), and other bridge equipment, as well as certifications like STCW, is essential. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help a Third Mate coordinate effectively with crew and respond to emergencies. These skills and qualifications are critical for ensuring vessel safety, regulatory compliance, and efficient ship operations.

What is the highest paying maritime job?

The highest paying maritime jobs are typically senior captain or master positions on large cargo ships or oil tankers, with salaries often exceeding $150,000 annually. These roles require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership skills, and they involve long periods at sea with demanding schedules.
More about License Third Mate jobs
What cities are hiring for License Third Mate jobs? Cities with the most License Third Mate job openings:
What states have the most License Third Mate jobs? States with the most job openings for License Third Mate jobs include:
Infographic showing various License Third Mate job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,583 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Job description

Offshore Marine Group

Transocean is focused on being the employer of choice for the drilling industry.

We are challenging ourselves every day to push the performance of the company through technological advances and passion for our work.

Job Summary

Assist the Chief Mate/Senior Mate and 2nd Mate in exercising control over the rig's marine operations with due regard for safety of personnel, maintenance of rig equipment and protection of the environment.

Job Description

REPORTING:

Reports to the 2nd Mate

SUPERVISION:

None

Pre-Requisite/ Qualification:

  • High School Diploma (U.S.)/ Proof of Completion of Formal Education or Relevant Craft Certificate (where applicable).
  • Successful Military Discharge - Preferred for U.S.
  • Graduate of Trade School or University where knowledge and training acquired are applicable to job requirements - Preferred.
  • Valid Unlimited 3rd Mate Licenses (Home country and Flag state)
  • Knowledge of all technical calculations required for the safe operation of the marine aspect of the vessel.
  • Basic computer skills
  • Valid medical examination and vaccination certificates for area of operation.
  • Valid GMDSS License.
  • Lifeboatman Certificate.

General Requirements:

  • Promotes a Safe and Respectful Work Environment: Proactively promotes and Maintains a healthy respect for open and transparent dialogue between all levels of personnel, including Management.
  • Demonstrates care for the safety and well-being of all personnel, at all times. Invests in each person to provide equal opportunity for development and advancement of those qualified, to fulfill their career objectives.
  • Respects the dignity of all personnel and recognizes their merit.
  • Attend and participate in all required Safety and Operational meetings.
  • Participate fully in the annual performance appraisal process, competency assessments based on performance against Operational Discipline requirements.
  • Complete company training requirements for the 3rd Mate job level as per the training matrix, including in local/regulatory requirements.
  • If applicable, the duties and responsibilities in the safety case for this position must be observed.
  • Full participation in emergency drills and respond to emergency situations as per assigned duties on the station bill.

Operational Discipline Requirements:

  • Disciplined application and participation in the company risk management system.
  • This is inclusive of:
  • Understanding and perform the roles and responsibilities as assigned at the pre-job meeting.
  • Understanding and identifying the hazards associated with the task.
  • Understanding and effectively implementing the control measures required to mitigate identified hazards.
  • Execute all tasks and task steps in a disciplined manner, following the sequence detailed in the relevant procedures.
  • Recognize at risk behavior or conditions during tasks and call 'Time out for Safety' when unsure, or when the job does not go as planned.
  • Participate in After Action Reviews to feedback lessons learned from performing the task.

HSE Requirements:

  • Protect personnel, the environment, and assets by eliminating hazards and reducing health and safety risks.
  • Understand Company OI & HSE requirements applicable to the job position.
  • Execute work in accordance with Company OI & HSE requirements.
  • Call a Time Out when a real or perceived at risk behavior or unsafe condition is observed.
  • Use WorkSight ENGAGE during the execution of planned work.
  • Report all incidents, potential hazards, or abnormal situations to a supervisor.
  • Incorporate the Control of Work process into all work, whether working alone or as part of a team.
  • Understand and implement major accident barriers / controls applicable to the job position.
  • Maintain a safe and organized work area throughout and on completion of all work.
  • Understand your role in an emergency, as designated in the Emergency Response Plan and Station Bill.
  • Participate in all emergency drills and exercises, as required.

DUTIES:

The underlying expectation is that all duties are carried out in compliance with the Company Operational Discipline expectations and HSE requirements. When considering assignment of duties for the 3rd Mate, the Supervisor and the 3rd Mate will apply the rules of task planning to determine if the assigned role is appropriate. This means confirming that the individuals involved have the knowledge, skills, and experience to carry out the task, and the task plan complies with policy before they are authorized to proceed.
General Duties:

Operations/Maintenance:

  • Exercise control of the safe navigation of the vessel in order to ensure that all navigation operations are carried out in accordance with Company policies and procedures, regulations and sound marine practices.
  • Become familiar with the vessel's bridge and navigation equipment; Assist with voyage planning and rig move operations.
  • Provide assistance during anchoring operations.
  • Provide assistance in ensuring that the vessel's navigational equipment is maintained, fully functional and tested in accordance with SOLAS, Classification, and Flag State regulations.
  • Assist with maintenance of deck equipment, firefighting and lifesaving equipment and marine department lifting equipment (as required), and update records accordingly.
  • Assist with maintaining the vessel in a seaworthy condition.
  • Assist with maintaining the watertight integrity of the vessel, loading and storage of consumables, securing of supply vessels and helicopter operations.
  • Assist with carrying out the vessel's Class Surveys as well as other regulatory inspections and audits.
  • Provide assistance in ensuring the vessel complies with local and international pollution regulations.
  • Assist in maintaining the vessel in a stable condition and at the correct draft and trim.
  • Assist with running hydrophones and subsea beacons.
  • Make regular use of the onboard DP simulator for training purposes, where available.
  • Ensure that all defects and anomalies are reported to your supervisor or the Master.
  • Assist as required with maintaining and carrying out PM's on all marine department equipment under the direction of the Chief Mate/Senior Mate/2nd Mate.
  • Gain familiarity with the vessel's dynamic positioning equipment, and work towards gaining a Nautical Institute DP Certificate.

Personnel:

  • Promote and maintain good working relationships with other departments, third-party personnel and Customer representatives.
  • Mentor, coach, develop and train crew members to ensure they are competent to work at their current and next job level.
  • Provide leadership and motivation to the marine crews. Apply continuous improvement process.
  • Participate fully in the annual performance appraisal process.
  • Apply appropriate accountability regarding recognition; recommend promotion or disciplinary action up to and including discharge.

If you want to push yourself to great achievement, let Transocean develop your career.