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Mate Steersman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Archer Daniels Midland

$343 - $360/day

Current, or ability to obtain, Apprentice Mate (Steersman) license * Successful completion and favorable evaluation of the Pilot Apprentice Program Tiers 1 through 3 as specified in the Pilot ...

Archer Daniels Midland

$340 - $360/day

Current, or ability to obtain, Apprentice Mate (Steersman) license * Successful completion and favorable evaluation of the Pilot Apprentice Program Tiers 1 through 3 as specified in the Pilot ...

ADM

Pilot Apprentice - Ottawa, IL

Ottawa, IL · On-site

$340 - $360/hr

Current, or ability to obtain, Apprentice Mate (Steersman) licenseSuccessful completion and favorable evaluation of the Pilot Apprentice Program Tiers 1 through 3 as specified in the Pilot Apprentice ...

ADM

Pilot Apprentice - Ottawa, IL

Ottawa, IL · On-site

$340 - $360/hr

Current, or ability to obtain, Apprentice Mate (Steersman) licenseSuccessful completion and favorable evaluation of the Pilot Apprentice Program Tiers 1 through 3 as specified in the Pilot Apprentice ...

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Mate Steersman information

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$22

$25

$29

How much do mate steersman jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for mate steersman 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mate steersman?

To thrive as a Mate Steersman, you need strong navigational skills, maritime safety knowledge, and a valid U.S. Coast Guard Mate Steersman license. Familiarity with radar, GPS navigation systems, and electronic charting software is commonly required. Leadership, clear communication, and situational awareness are crucial soft skills for coordinating with crew and ensuring operational safety. These skills and qualities are vital for safe vessel operation, regulatory compliance, and effective teamwork on the water.

What is a mate steersman?

Mate Steersmen are licensed crew members who assist in navigating and steering vessels such as towboats, ferries, or other ships. They work under the supervision of the captain or pilot, helping to manage the safe operation of the vessel, maintain logs, communicate with other crew, and oversee cargo handling. Their responsibilities also include monitoring navigational instruments, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and sometimes supervising deckhands. Mate Steersmen typically need specialized training and must obtain the appropriate maritime credentials. This role is crucial for the safe and efficient movement of vessels on waterways.

What are some typical challenges a mate steersman might encounter when transitioning from classroom training to working on an actual vessel?

A Mate Steersman may face challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced, physically demanding environment aboard a vessel and learning to interpret real-time navigational data under pressure. Unlike classroom simulations, real-world conditions require swift decision-making, strong communication with crew members, and immediate problem-solving, often during inclement weather or unexpected situations. Building rapport with the team and gaining hands-on experience are essential for developing confidence and competence in handling the vessel safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Mate Steersman vs Deckhand?

AspectMate SteersmanDeckhand
CertificationsSTCW certifications, maritime safety trainingBasic safety training, STCW optional
Work EnvironmentBridge operations, navigation, vessel managementDeck maintenance, cargo handling, general deck duties
Employer & IndustryMaritime shipping, cruise lines, offshore vesselsCommercial shipping, fishing, cargo vessels

The Mate Steersman primarily focuses on navigation and vessel operation, requiring specialized certifications and working in bridge environments. In contrast, a Deckhand performs hands-on deck duties like maintenance and cargo handling. Both roles are essential in maritime operations but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

More about Mate Steersman jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Mate Steersman jobs? The most popular types of Mate Steersman jobs are:
What states have the most Mate Steersman jobs? States with the most job openings for Mate Steersman jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Mate Steersman jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mate Steersman jobs are:
Mate Steersman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mate Steersman job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,628 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Pilot Apprentice - Ottawa, IL

Archer Daniels Midland

On-site

$343 - $360/day

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

ADM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 185 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 360 rated logistics

Job description

Pilot Apprentice - Ottawa, IL
This is a full-time, non-exempt level position.
Position Summary:
  • The ARTCO Pilot Apprentice Program is designed to develop our most qualified internal candidates into industry leading Captains. ARTCO is confident that graduated Pilot Apprentice will be sufficiently trained to safely and efficiently operate towing vessels on the Inland Waterways.
  • Pay-  $343-$360 Range/Daily Rate
Job Responsibilities:
  • Complete the core components of the Pilot Apprentice program, including, but not limited to, Vessel Familiarization and Operations; Watch Standing; Environmental Protection; Safety and Emergency Response; Rules of the Road; Maneuvering; and Leadership
  • Additional duties and responsibilities as required or requested
Job Requirements:
  • Current, or ability to obtain, Apprentice Mate (Steersman) license
  • Successful completion and favorable evaluation of the Pilot Apprentice Program Tiers 1 through 3 as specified in the Pilot Apprentice Program guidelines
  • Promote the ADM Way and core Values
  • Ability to manage a diverse team
  • Able to communicate with all levels of the organization
  • Must have a demonstrated history of safe work behavior and a sincere desire to follow and improve upon safety policies and procedures
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications such as Excel, Outlook, and Word
  • Problem solving and conflict resolution
  • Critical and creative thinking
  • Demonstrate time management and organization skills
  • Ability to coach, mentor, engage and develop workforce
  • Participate and lead strategic discussions and decisions
  • Complete trainings and attend meetings as required
  • Ability to work extended hours, evenings, weekends and Holidays 
  • Reliable transportation to and from work
  • Current Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card required.  If you do not have a TWIC card upon hire, you must apply for one within 5 days.
Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to safely steer a vessel
  • Ability to work indoors and outdoors and in varying conditions such as hot, cold, dusty, etc.
  • Standing and sitting for prolonged periods of time
  • Operating a keyboard
  • Kneeling and climbing stairs/ladders
  • Ability to work near or on large bodies of water, at various heights and in confined spaces
Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. 
REF:106361BR

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