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Mate 500 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prefer USCG issued MATE 500 or 1600 Ton Oceans license w/radar endorsement * Prefer Tankerman/PIC endorsement * Relevant towing experience * Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC) * Drug ...

Prefer USCG issued MATE 500 or 1600 Ton Oceans license w/radar endorsement * Prefer Tankerman/PIC endorsement * Relevant towing experience * Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC) * Drug ...

It is the responsibility of the Mate to see that all deck operations and procedures are carried out ... If Master's license, 500 ton (or greater) is not currently held, endeavor to obtain such license ...

Mate

Unalaska, AK · On-site

Requirements · USCG Licensing required: 500 GT near coastal uninspected fishing vessel Mate's license (or greater). · Ability to act as backup to vessel captain, · Familiarity with all aspects of ...

If Master's license, 500 ton (or greater) is not currently held, endeavor to obtain such license ... Mate 200 GRT on Ocean routes with Mate of Towing Vessels endorsement 3. Valid TWIC 4. Valid ...

Mate

Unalaska, AK · On-site

Requirements · USCG Licensing required: 500 GT near coastal uninspected fishing vessel Mate's license (or greater). · Ability to act as backup to vessel captain, · Familiarity with all aspects of ...

Mate

Unalaska, AK · On-site

Requirements • USCG Licensing required: 500 GT near coastal uninspected fishing vessel Mate's license (or greater). • Ability to act as backup to vessel captain, • Familiarity with all aspects ...

If Master's license, 500 ton (or greater) is not currently held, endeavor to obtain such license ... Mate 200 GRT on Ocean routes with Mate of Towing Vessels endorsement 3. Valid TWIC 4. Valid ...

If Master's license, 500 ton (or greater) is not currently held, endeavor to obtain such license ... Mate 200 GRT on Ocean routes with Mate of Towing Vessels endorsement 3. Valid TWIC 4. Valid ...

The Cargo Mate is primarily responsible for conducting cargo operations, oversee deck hands ... Officer In Charge of a Navigation Watch (STCW A-II/I-OINCW 500 Gross Tons or more), Able Seafarer ...

The Cargo Mate is primarily responsible for conducting cargo operations, oversee deck hands ... Officer In Charge of a Navigation Watch (STCW A-II/I-OINCW 500 Gross Tons or more), Able Seafarer ...

The Cargo Mate is primarily responsible for conducting cargo operations, oversee deck hands ... Officer In Charge of a Navigation Watch (STCW A-II/I-OINCW 500 Gross Tons or more), Able Seafarer ...

The Cargo Mate is primarily responsible for conducting cargo operations, oversee deck hands ... Officer In Charge of a Navigation Watch (STCW A-II/I-OINCW 500 Gross Tons or more), Able Seafarer ...

The Cargo Mate is primarily responsible for conducting cargo operations, oversee deck hands ... Officer In Charge of a Navigation Watch (STCW A-II/I-OINCW 500 Gross Tons or more), Able Seafarer ...

The Cargo Mate is primarily responsible for conducting cargo operations, oversee deck hands ... Officer In Charge of a Navigation Watch (STCW A-II/I-OINCW 500 Gross Tons or more), Able Seafarer ...

The Cargo Mate is primarily responsible for conducting cargo operations, oversee deck hands ... Officer In Charge of a Navigation Watch (STCW A-II/I-OINCW 500 Gross Tons or more), Able Seafarer ...

The Cargo Mate is primarily responsible for conducting cargo operations, oversee deck hands ... Officer In Charge of a Navigation Watch (STCW A-II/I-OINCW 500 Gross Tons or more), Able Seafarer ...

The Cargo Mate is primarily responsible for conducting cargo operations, oversee deck hands ... Officer In Charge of a Navigation Watch (STCW A-II/I-OINCW 500 Gross Tons or more), Able Seafarer ...

The Cargo Mate is primarily responsible for conducting cargo operations, oversee deck hands ... Officer In Charge of a Navigation Watch (STCW A-II/I-OINCW 500 Gross Tons or more), Able Seafarer ...

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Mate 500 information

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$22

$25

$29

How much do mate 500 jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for mate 500 in the United States is $25.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a Mate 500 when managing crew operations on a vessel?

As a Mate 500, one of the main challenges is effectively coordinating and supervising a diverse crew, especially during busy shifts or in challenging weather conditions. Balancing administrative duties, such as maintaining logs and compliance checks, with hands-on support on deck requires strong organizational skills and adaptability. Additionally, the Mate 500 often acts as a bridge between the captain and the crew, so clear communication and conflict resolution are essential for ensuring smooth vessel operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mate 500, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mate 500, you need a solid understanding of navigation, vessel operations, and maritime safety, typically supported by a Mate 500 Gross Tons (GT) license and relevant sea service experience. Familiarity with radar, electronic chart display systems (ECDIS), and safety management protocols is essential. Strong leadership, situational awareness, and effective communication help manage crew and respond to dynamic conditions. These skills ensure safe vessel operation, regulatory compliance, and effective teamwork on board.

What are Mate 500s?

A Mate 500 is a licensed deck officer on vessels of up to 500 gross tonnage. They are responsible for navigation, safety, cargo operations, and overseeing the crew during their watch. Mate 500s play a critical role in ensuring that the ship complies with maritime laws and operates efficiently. Their duties may also include maintaining records, assisting with docking and undocking, and responding to emergencies. To become a Mate 500, one must meet specific training and certification requirements set by maritime authorities.

What is the difference between Mate 500 vs Marine Electrician?

AspectMate 500Marine Electrician
Required CredentialsSTCW Basic Safety, Marine CertificationsElectrical Certifications, Marine Certifications
Work EnvironmentShipboard, OffshoreShipboard, Offshore
Industry UsageMaritime, ShippingMaritime, Shipping
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The Mate 500 and Marine Electrician roles both operate in maritime environments and require similar certifications. The Mate 500 typically oversees safety and navigation on ships, while Marine Electricians focus on electrical systems maintenance and repair. Both roles are essential in the shipping industry and often work together onboard vessels.

Infographic showing various Mate 500 job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,628 per year, or $25.8 per hour.
Mate

Temporary

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Description
Position Summary:
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 to the vessel Captain, and to work under direction of the Vitus Marine Port Captain. The 1st Mate will provide direction to the crew, including setting crew schedules, directing crew as required with assignments of maintenance, cooking, cleaning, watch standing, and other such activities required to be implemented by the Master. Provide safety leadership as well as confirm vessel and crew compliance with company policy and procedures. Conducting fire and boat drills, maintains records of stores and equipment in the deck department and approves requisitions.
The standard work schedule is continuous from April through October for seasonal Alaska operations; however, this work schedule may vary. The seven days per week daily work schedule is usually divided into two six-hour watches, for a total of a 12-hour work day. The forward watch is from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m., and 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. The after watch runs from 12 noon to 6 p.m. and 12 a.m. to 6 a.m. Hours for the call watch may vary according to the operational demands of the vessel.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Collaborate with management on vessel delivery schedules
  • Maintain regular communication with Vitus Marine Management team, Contractors and other Vessels as required
  • Share information with other Vitus vessels to ensure safe and profitable operation including, but not limited to routes, local knowledge and contacts.
  • Maintenance planning and execution as well as supervising contractors when necessary
  • Complete prescribed paperwork as outlined by managements & vessel documents, including but not limited to
    • Vessel Inspections
    • AWO Requirements
    • USCG Sub-Chapter M Requirements
    • Trip Reconciliation Forms
    • Expense Reports
  • Assist with customer and supplier notification / coordination
  • Ensure vessel orientation training of crews
  • Represent company to regulatory agencies and personnel as needed
  • Plan and schedule vessel crew changes with Port Captain and Operations Support Specialist
  • Facilitate shore side response to vessel needs for repairs, parts & supplies
  • Cook for crew when requested by the vessel Master
  • Any other duties as required to ensure safe and efficient vessel operations
  • Must be able to work a rotating six hours on and six hours off watch schedule, and occasionally work different hours when necessary
  • Must be able to adhere to all company policies, United States Coast Guard and environmental regulations
  • The safety of the towing vessel is the responsibility of the master and includes: o Adherence to the provisions of the COI;
    • Compliance with the applicable provisions of USCG Subchapter M;
    • Compliance with the TSMS, if one is applicable to the vessel; and
    • Supervision of all persons onboard in carrying out their assigned duties.
  • If the master or officer in charge of a navigational watch believes it is unsafe for the vessel to proceed, that an operation endangers the vessel or crew, or that an unsafe condition exists, he or she must ensure that adequate corrective action is taken and must not proceed until it is safe to do so.
  • Nothing in this subpart may be construed in a manner which limits the master or officer in charge of a navigational watch, at his or her own discretion, from diverting from the route prescribed in the COI or taking such steps as deemed necessary and prudent to assist vessels in distress or for other emergency conditions.

Other Job Responsibilities:
  • Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:
  • High school diploma, or equivalent
  • USCG issued Mate 100 Ton Near Coastal license with radar endorsement
  • TOAR/Mate of Towing
  • Prefer USCG issued MATE 500 or 1600 Ton Oceans license w/radar endorsement
  • Prefer Tankerman/PIC endorsement
  • Relevant towing experience
  • Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC)
  • Drug-free certification

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:
  • Effective problem solving skills
  • Ability to communicate clearly, verbally and written
  • Ability to read, write and speak English
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide all units of measure
  • Ability to deal with a variety of variables in situations where limited standardization exists

Education:
  • High school diploma, or equivalent

(1 year of directly related work experience may qualify to substitute 1 year of education to meet the education requirement)
Required Training & Certificates:
  • USCG issued Mate 100 Ton Near Coastal license with radar endorsement
  • TOAR/Mate of Towing
  • Prefer USCG issued MATE 500 or 1600 Ton Oceans license w/radar endorsement
  • Prefer Tankerman/PIC endorsement
  • Attends training sessions, seminars and appropriate educational classes required by department.
  • Computer skills commensurate with program and job applications.

Physical Demand/Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly type, talk and hear. The employee is frequently required to sit, stand, walk, reach with arms and hands, climb or balance, and to stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee must ascend and descend portable ladders or fixed stairs. The employee is regularly required to communicate with other vessels, Coast Guard stations, Corps of Engineers, lockmasters and their own crewmembers. Communications may be made via VHF radio, orally, by sound signals or by hand signals. The employee must be able to hear and communicate effectively in the conditions that might be encountered aboard a towboat. The employee must regularly lift and/or move 25 pound and occasionally items in excess of 100 pounds. Visual Acuity: must be adequate to safely operate the vessel in situations that are likely to occur when a boat is in navigation night and day, year round. The employee must be able to recognize color coded objects such as navigation lights, signals, and symbols, as well as warning lights or symbols. Depth perception must be adequate for navigation in close quarters, including lock or bridge approached. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate and may be loud on occasion. Work is usually done on a marine vessel and sometimes at a client facility, often out-of-doors, sometimes in extreme weather conditions, requiring the use of personal protective equipment to include, but not limited to; a reflective vest, steel toed boots, safety glasses with side shields and mandatory hearing protection. The employee must be capable of hearing alarms, unusual noises in operating machinery, signals from the boat and signals from passing vessels. The employee must be able to communicate with boat or dock personnel by radio, telephone, and voice communications. The employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts, vehicles and equipment, high, precarious places, fumes or airborne particles, risk of electrical shock and vibration. The employee may be required to travel by a variety of conventional and non-conventional modes.
Disclaimer: The above job description covers the principal duties and responsibilities of the job. The description shall not however, be construed as a complete job listing of all duties, which may be required from day
Vitus Energy, LLC is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.