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Second Mate License Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Second Mate

Honolulu, HI ยท On-site

$24.75 - $27.75/hr

Required to possess a US Coast Guard License, Mate of Steam or Motor Vessels, of at least 200 GRT Near Coastal with a towing endorsement. Oceans endorsement is preferred. Required are current radar ...

Second Mate

Honolulu, HI ยท On-site

$24.75 - $27.75/hr

Required to possess a US Coast Guard License, Mate of Steam or Motor Vessels, of at least 200 GRT Near Coastal with a towing endorsement. Oceans endorsement is preferred. Required are current radar ...

2nd Mate

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$8.0K - $10K/mo

Minimum 3 years' experience as 2nd Mate of Fishing Vessels participating in fisheries in Alaskan or ... Must meet US Coast Guard licensing standards regarding physical condition, hearing and eyesight ...

3rd Mate

Houston, TX ยท On-site

Reports to the 2nd Mate SUPERVISION: None Pre-Requisite/ Qualification: * High School Diploma (U.S ... Valid GMDSS License. * Lifeboatman Certificate. General Requirements: * Promotes a Safe and ...

Mate Unlimited

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

The 2nd Mate is a licensed deck officer responsible for the safe navigation and operations of the vessel, safety management, and ensuring compliance of maritime laws and regulations. They serve as ...

Mate UFIV 1600T

Abbeville, LA ยท On-site

$17.75 - $19.75/hr

Tie off cork to vessel with the Cook, Chief Engineer, and the Second Engineer. * Supervise crew ... USCG Mate UFIV 1600T License * Ability to work overtime, weekend, and rotating shifts as required

2nd Mate

Seattle, WA

$8.0K - $10K/mo

Manifests, Mate's Receipts, HR Paperwork, Injury/Illness Reports, FishmealSamples * Crew Needs ... Must meet US Coast Guard licensing standardsregardingphysical condition,hearingand eyesight ...

Mate

Bayonne, NJ ยท On-site

Acts as second in command of the tug and barge. Must be able to understand and carry out the orders ... Minimum 200 Ton Mate License Near Coastal. * Mate of Towing Endorsement Near Coastal. * Radar ...

Mate

Bayonne, NJ ยท On-site

Overview Acts as second in command of the tug and barge. Must be able to understand and carry out ... Minimum 200 Ton Mate License Near Coastal. * Mate of Towing Endorsement Near Coastal. * Radar ...

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Second Mate License information

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How much do second mate license jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for second mate license 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 is a Second Mate License?

A Second Mate License is a maritime certification that qualifies an individual to serve as a second mate, or second officer, on merchant ships. The second mate is responsible for navigation, safety, and other duties under the supervision of the chief mate and captain. Obtaining a Second Mate License typically requires sea service experience, passing exams, and completing relevant training courses. This license is issued by maritime authorities such as the U.S. Coast Guard and is recognized internationally. It allows mariners to advance their careers and take on greater responsibilities aboard vessels.

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

To thrive as a Second Mate, you need a strong background in navigation, ship operations, and maritime safety, supported by a Second Mate license and relevant sea service experience. Familiarity with electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS), radar, and GMDSS equipment is typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe vessel operation, efficient teamwork, and adherence to international maritime regulations.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A Second Mate License can lead to high-paying maritime roles such as chief mate or captain, which can pay $4,000 or more weekly, especially with experience and certifications. Other high-paying jobs without a degree include commercial pilot, real estate broker, or certain sales roles, but these often require specialized training or licensing. Maritime positions typically require maritime training, certifications, and experience at sea.

What are some common challenges Second Mates face when transitioning from a Third Mate role?

Transitioning from Third Mate to Second Mate comes with increased responsibility, particularly in navigation planning, cargo operations, and supervising the bridge team. Second Mates are often tasked with passage planning, maintaining navigational charts, and acting as the primary safety officer, which can be challenging for those new to the role. Adaptation requires strong organizational skills and the ability to make decisions under pressure, as well as effective communication with both senior officers and crew members to ensure smooth operations.

How to become a second mate?

To become a second mate, you need to obtain a Merchant Mariner Credential with a second mate license, which requires completing approved maritime training, accumulating sea service hours, and passing written exams. Typically, candidates start as deck cadets or third mates to gain necessary experience and must meet age and health requirements set by maritime authorities.

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

AspectSecond Mate LicenseThird Mate License
Required CredentialsSTCW certification, approved training, and experience as an Ordinary Seaman or DeckhandSimilar STCW certification, with less experience required
Work EnvironmentBridge watchkeeping, navigation, safety procedures on shipsEntry-level bridge duties, assisting senior officers
Industry UsageMid-level officer, eligible for more complex vesselsEntry-level officer, gaining experience for higher licenses

The Second Mate License and Third Mate License are both essential maritime certifications. The Second Mate License qualifies officers for more advanced navigation and watchkeeping roles, while the Third Mate License is an entry-level certification. Both require similar credentials, but the Second Mate License demands more experience and responsibilities, making it suitable for those aiming to advance their maritime careers.

What is the highest paid marine job?

The highest paid marine job is often that of a captain or master of large commercial vessels, such as oil tankers or cargo ships, with salaries reaching six figures annually. These roles require extensive experience, advanced certifications like a Master Mariner license, and often involve long periods at sea. Senior officers in the maritime industry typically earn the highest compensation due to their responsibility and expertise.

What is the job of a second mate?

A second mate is a licensed maritime officer responsible for navigation, safety, and cargo operations on a vessel. They assist the chief mate in maintaining charts, watchkeeping, and safety procedures, often working in shifts and requiring certification such as a Second Mate License.
More about Second Mate License jobs
What cities are hiring for Second Mate License jobs? Cities with the most Second Mate License job openings:
What states have the most Second Mate License jobs? States with the most job openings for Second Mate License jobs include:
Infographic showing various Second Mate License job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 4% Summer. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,628 per year, or $25.8 per hour.
Second Mate

Second Mate

Young Brothers

Honolulu, HI โ€ข On-site

$24.75 - $27.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

PRIMARY PURPOSE: Assist First Mate and Master of vessel as required in day-to-day operational activities.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES/FUNCTIONS:
1. Assist First Mate with crew work assignments.
2. Stand sea watch and pilot/navigate vessel in a safe and proficient manner.
3. Operate and maintain vessel equipment in a safe and proficient manner.
4. Assist in docking of barges in a safe and proficient manner.
OTHER DUTIES/FUNCTIONS:
1. Meets with First Mate and Master of vessel to determine work assignments.


WORKING CONDITIONS:
Works indoors and outdoors in various weather and sea conditions in wet, humid, noisy, and dusty
areas. Frequently uses paints, solvents, and thinners.
Equipment use:
Uses wheelhouse controls to pilot/navigate vessel. Uses basic hand and hand-held power tools.
May drive company vehicles.
Work hours:
Normal work hours vary according to vessel assignment and sailing schedule. Normal work days
are Monday - Sunday.

MENTAL DEMANDS:
Shall have sufficient mathematical ability to determine ship's position, speed, and ETA. Shall be
attentive to detail and alert at all times to ensure safety of vessel and crew. Shall be able to receive
and follow instructions and be able to communicate with coworkers and supervisory personnel.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
1. Sitting: Sits when piloting/navigating vessel and splicing lines. SELDOM
2. Climbing/Jumping/Balancing: Climbs/Jumps from pier to vessel, vessel to barge, and vice
versa. Balances while on vessel and barges in various harbor water conditions.
FREQUENTLY
3. Stooping/Kneeling/Crouching/Crawling: Stoops, etc. to pick up and place lines, towing
gears, and when performing general maintenance and sanitary duties. FREQUENTLY
4. Squatting: Squats while performing general maintenance. FREQUENTLY
5. Twisting: Twists when piloting/navigating vessel, handling lines, and performing general
maintenance. FREQUENTLY
6. Walking: Walks when handling lines, docking barges, and performing general maintenance.
FREQUENTLY
7. Reaching: Reaches when piloting/navigating vessel, handling lines, and performing general
maintenance. FREQUENTLY
8. Handling/Fingering: Handles/Fingers lines, parts, and wheelhouse controls.
OCCASIONALLY
9. Eye-hand-foot coordination: Coordinates movements when piloting/navigating, docking
barges, and performing general maintenance. CONTINUOUSLY
10. Vision (corrected, depth, wide field, and color): 20/40 correctable vision in each eye and
color sense as required by US Coast Guard. Depth perception and a wide field of vision
required to ensure safety of vessel and crew when navigating and docking barges.
FREQUENTLY
11. Pushing/Pulling/Lifting/Carrying (up to 50 pounds): Pushes and carries tools, equipment,
and stores. Pulls and lifts lines and equipment. FREQUENTLY


QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS (Licenses, Degrees, Certificates):
Required to possess a US Coast Guard License, Mate of Steam or Motor Vessels, of at least 200
GRT Near Coastal with a towing endorsement. Oceans endorsement is preferred. Required are
current radar observer endorsement and FCC marine radiotelephone operator permit. STCW 95
endorsement preferred. Valid driver's license for possible use of company vehicles, preferred. If
you are an in-house (current) employee, and have not already completed Young Brothers, Ltd.
Training Syllabus as detailed in YB Forms 23A and 23D, you have 90 days from your effective date
of reclassification to complete the Training Syllabus. . For external candidates applying for this
position, if selected a new employee must complete the Young Brothers Ltd., Training Syllabus as
detailed in YB Forms 23A and 23D prior to standing watch on an unsupervised basis, and in all
such cases prior to the expiration of the new employee's 90 day probationary period.


Skills/Knowledge: Ability to pilot/navigate vessel through the use of radio, radar, electronic
navigational equipment, navigational aids, and charting. Ability to operate and utilize basic hand
and hand-held power tools and deck equipment. Must be familiar with and be able to
navigate/pilot in both harbor and offshore waters; must have good, proven judgment in operating
tug and in handling equipment and machinery; must be able to communicate with other vessels
and the harbor pilots via VHF radio. Basic computer skills are preferred. Supervisory skills and
leadership characteristics are highly desirable.


Education/Training: Must have sufficient verbal, reading and writing skills as required by the job
(i.e. delegating assignments to crew members, receiving instructions from supervisor, reading
instructions, writing job assignments, requests etc. High School Diploma or GED equivalent is
required.
Experience: Total service of 18 months, of which 12 months must be on Towing Vessels.


POSITION CONTENT: This job description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all
inclusive list of all the responsibilities, skills, or working conditions associated with the position. While it is
intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements, management reserves the right to
modify, add or remove duties, and assign other duties as necessary.

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