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Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Mate directly reports to the Captain and acts on behalf of the Captain when on watch * While on watch, the Mate is responsible for the safety and welfare of the vessel, its crew, and tow.

The Mate directly reports to the Captain and acts on behalf of the Captain when on watch * While on watch, the Mate is responsible for the safety and welfare of the vessel, its crew, and tow.

Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Mate: Description/Job Summary: The Mate is responsible for assisting the Master with safe and efficient operation of the Tug. The Mate safely manages all towing operations and deck evolutions. The ...

Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Mate: Description/Job Summary: The Mate is responsible for assisting the Master with safe and efficient operation of the Tug. The Mate safely manages all towing operations and deck evolutions. The ...

Mate

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$708/day

Mate - Meet the Captains and Mates at McAllister Towing Description/Job Summary: The Mate is responsible for assisting the Master with safe and efficient operation of the Tug. The Mate safely manages ...

Mate

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$708/day

Mate - Meet the Captains and Mates at McAllister Towing Description/Job Summary: The Mate is responsible for assisting the Master with safe and efficient operation of the Tug. The Mate safely manages ...

Mate

Galveston, TX · On-site

One mate acts as the safety advisor onboard the LSV and ensures that all company and regulatory requirements related to health, safety and the environment are met. It is the duty of this Mate to look ...

Mate

Galveston, TX · On-site

One mate acts as the safety advisor onboard the LSV and ensures that all company and regulatory requirements related to health, safety and the environment are met. It is the duty of this Mate to look ...

Mate In Training

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

$64K - $128K/yr

The Mate shall stand such watches as established by the Master pursuant to directions issued by the Company. When not performing duties as the OICNW, the Mate performs those duties enumerated below ...

Mate In Training

Brownsville, TX · On-site

$64K - $128K/yr

The Mate shall stand such watches as established by the Master pursuant to directions issued by the Company. When not performing duties as the OICNW, the Mate performs those duties enumerated below ...

Mate

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$32.15 - $53.58/hr

Mate I, II, III will work directly with the Port Captain, and Vessel Captain, applying our three core values of Innovation, Integrity, and Efficiency and maintaining the Curtin Standard onboard. WHAT ...

Mate

Long Beach, CA · On-site

Mate I, II, III will work directly with the Port Captain, and Vessel Captain, applying our three core values of Innovation, Integrity, and Efficiency and maintaining the Curtin Standard onboard. WHAT ...

Mate

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$32.15 - $53.58/hr

Mate I, II, III will work directly with the Port Captain, and Vessel Captain, applying our three core values of Innovation, Integrity, and Efficiency and maintaining the Curtin Standard onboard. WHAT ...

Mate

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$32.15 - $53.58/day

Mate I, II, III will work directly with the Port Captain, and Vessel Captain, applying our three core values of Innovation, Integrity, and Efficiency and maintaining the Curtin Standard onboard. WHAT ...

Mate, Brilliant

Mystic, CT · On-site

$44K/yr

The mate will assist the captain in all aspects of the vessel's operation ranging from teaching student and adult crew, vessel maneuvering, and vessel maintenance and upkeep. In the absence of the ...

Mate

Anchorage, AK · On-site

The Mate's duties will include safe operation of vessels during appointed shifts, oversight of vessel staff, and supervision of offloading of all cargos, communication with the main office, reporting ...

Mystic Seaport Museum is hiring for a one-year Mate position with the possibility of extending for an additional year. The position will start in the Spring of 2026. BRILLIANT is a classic sailing ...

The Mate's duties will include safe operation of vessels during appointed shifts, oversight of vessel staff, and supervision of offloading of all cargos, communication with the main office, reporting ...

Description Mystic Seaport Museum is hiring for a one-year Mate position with the possibility of extending for an additional year. The position will start in the Spring of 2026. BRILLIANT is a ...

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Mate information

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$15

$34

$76

How much do mate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 a mate?

Mates are licensed officers on a ship who assist the captain in navigating, operating, and managing the vessel. They are typically ranked as chief mate (first officer), second mate, and third mate, each with specific duties related to navigation, safety, cargo operations, and crew management. Mates ensure that the ship runs smoothly by overseeing daily operations, supervising the crew, and maintaining equipment. They also play a crucial role in emergency procedures and compliance with maritime regulations.

What are the job duties of a mate?

A mate on a ship operates and maintains a merchant boat. A typical deep-sea ship includes a crew of at least three mates, including the first mate or chief mate, second mate, and third mate. Your duties as a mate can vary depending on the size of the vessel. You supervise the ship during your shift, delegate duties to lower ranking crew members, and manage other sailors on board. You may also charter a course for the boat, steer the vessel, or navigate on open water. Additional responsibilities include conducting bridge watch and maintaining log entries. Mates are responsible for the overall maintenance of the ship as well.

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

To thrive as a Mate, you need strong knowledge of navigation, seamanship, safety procedures, and typically a relevant maritime certification such as an Officer of the Watch license. Familiarity with navigation systems, GPS, radar, and vessel management software is essential. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving are critical soft skills for managing crew and responding to emergencies. These competencies ensure safe vessel operation, efficient teamwork, and compliance with maritime regulations.

What is the difference between Mate vs Carpenter?

AspectMateCarpenter
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; apprenticeship or technical training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, shipyards, or industrial settingsConstruction sites, residential, or commercial buildings
Industry UsageMaritime, industrial, or construction sectorsConstruction, renovation, and building industries
Common Search/ComparisonMate vs Carpenter

In summary, a Mate typically works in maritime or industrial environments and may require basic certifications, focusing on assisting with operations. A Carpenter specializes in building and repairing structures, often requiring technical training or apprenticeships. Both roles are essential in construction-related industries but differ in work setting and skill requirements.

What are some typical challenges a mate faces when managing deck operations aboard a commercial vessel?

Mates often encounter challenges such as coordinating deck crew during adverse weather conditions, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and handling unexpected maintenance issues. They must balance supervisory responsibilities with hands-on work, all while maintaining effective communication between the captain and crew. Adapting to rapidly changing circumstances at sea and managing fatigue during long shifts are also common aspects of the role. Developing strong organizational and leadership skills is crucial for overcoming these challenges and ensuring smooth vessel operations.
What cities are hiring for Mate jobs? Cities with the most Mate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Mate jobs? The most popular types of Mate jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Mate jobs? The top employers for Mate jobs are:
What states have the most Mate jobs? States with the most job openings for Mate jobs include:
Infographic showing various Mate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $72,583 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • The Mate directly reports to the Captain and acts on behalf of the Captain when on watch
  • While on watch, the Mate is responsible for the safety and welfare of the vessel, its crew, and tow.
  • Should the Captain become incapacitated or leave the vessel for any reason, the Mate becomes acting Captain and assumes the responsibility, authority, and duties of the Captain.
  • Therefore, the Mate should be familiar with the Captain's responsibilities, authority, and duties as outlined in this procedure manual.
  • The Mate must ensure that all logs are completed for the period he/she is on watch and enter crew changes occurring on his watch in the Vessel Daily Log.
  • The Mate is responsible for updating the navigational charts and light lists using the latest Notice to Mariners.

Benefits
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • STD, LTD & Life Insurance Plans
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Employee Discount Program

Requirements
  • Must have a U.S. Coast Guard Mate Pilot of Towing license endorsement or better
  • 3-5 years' experience operating a tugboat
  • Must possess a valid radar observer license.
  • Valid MMC, Coast Guard Medical Certificate & TWIC