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Second Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Phoenix Processor Limited Partnership

Mate

Seattle, WA · On-site

$450 - $650/day

Phoenix Processor LP (PPLP) is hiring for the position of Mate (UFIV) on board the M/V Excellence. Our vessel operates as an at sea fish processing vessel taking over the side deliveries from catcher ...

Phoenix Processor Limited Partnership

Mate

Seattle, WA · On-site

$450 - $650/day

Phoenix Processor LP (PPLP) is hiring for the position of Mate (UFIV) on board the M/V Excellence. Our vessel operates as an at sea fish processing vessel taking over the side deliveries from catcher ...

United States Coast Guard

Boatswain's Mate

Yorktown, VA · On-site

$22 - $24.75/hr

Captain, Mate, or Pilot of Water Vessels * General and Operations Manager * Emergency Management Director * First-line Supervisor of Material-moving Machine and Vehicle Operators * Schedule ...

Seaport Museum New York

Relief Mate

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$25/hr

Job Summary The Mate assists, at the direction of the Captain, in all aspects of the operation, handling, and maintenance of the 1885 schooner Pioneer and the 1930 tugboat W.O. Decker . They serve as ...

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How much do second mate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for second mate 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?

The second mate, or second officer, is the third-highest position on a ship. As a second mate, your job duties include keeping watch, overseeing navigational procedures, preparing voyage plans, and serving as an understudy for the first and second ranking officers on the ship. In general, you need considerable experience working on a ship before being considered for a second mate job, having already honed your skills working through the ranks. You’re in charge of other crew members in your role as the second mate, making leadership skills crucial. You also need to get your second mate license and, depending on the company, additional certifications to prove your qualifications for this career.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Second Mate, a maritime navigation officer, can earn around $10,000 or more per month, especially with extensive experience and certifications such as STCW. These roles often require maritime training, licensing, and working on ships, with schedules that can include long periods at sea away from land-based requirements for a degree.

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 strong navigational expertise, knowledge of maritime regulations, and a valid STCW certification, typically supported by a maritime academy diploma. Proficiency with electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS), radar, GPS, and safety management systems is essential. Leadership, decision-making, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating crew and ensuring vessel safety. These skills and qualifications are crucial for safe navigation, efficient operations, and compliance with international maritime standards.

What are some common challenges faced by a Second Mate during long voyages, and how can they be managed?

As a Second Mate, one of the main challenges during extended voyages is maintaining navigational accuracy and ensuring the safe passage of the vessel, especially in adverse weather or congested waters. Managing fatigue due to long watch hours and coordinating effectively with the rest of the bridge team are also significant aspects. To address these challenges, Second Mates rely on strong organizational skills, proactive communication, and adherence to rest schedules. Building good rapport with crewmates and staying current with navigational technologies further helps in managing the demands of the role.

How much do 2Nd mates make?

Second mates typically earn between $3,000 and $6,000 per month, depending on experience, vessel size, and the shipping company. They are responsible for navigation, safety, and cargo operations, often requiring certification such as STCW and a third mate license. Salaries can vary based on the region and the type of vessel operated.

What are Second Mates?

A Second Mate is a licensed officer on a merchant ship who is responsible for navigation and safety duties. They typically serve as the ship's navigator, planning and overseeing the vessel's course, and are often in charge of updating charts and navigational publications. Second Mates also stand watch, assist with cargo operations, and supervise crew members as needed. Their role is crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the ship.

What is the difference between Second Mate vs Third Mate?

AspectSecond MateThird Mate
CertificationsSTCW Officer Certification, Second Mate LicenseSTCW Officer Certification, Third Mate License
Work EnvironmentBridge watch, navigation, safety duties on larger vesselsBridge watch, safety, and auxiliary duties, often on smaller ships
ResponsibilitiesNavigation, safety management, overseeing deck crewAssist navigation, safety checks, support senior officers

The main difference between a Second Mate and a Third Mate lies in their level of responsibility and licensing. Second Mates typically hold higher certifications and are responsible for navigation and safety on larger ships, while Third Mates assist with these duties and often serve on smaller vessels. Both roles are essential in maritime operations, with Second Mates generally having more experience and authority.

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Second Mate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Second Mate job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 33% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,628 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Mate

Phoenix Processor Limited Partnership

Seattle, WA • On-site

$450 - $650/day

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

We are an equal employment opportunity employer.

Phoenix Processor LP (PPLP) is hiring for the position of Mate (UFIV) on board the M/V Excellence.

Our vessel operates as an at sea fish processing vessel taking over the side deliveries from catcher boats. Our factory produces fillet and surimi products for international and domestic markets. This is a watch standing position, 12 on and 12 off. Additional duties will be assigned related to safety equipment and safety training. Our vessel typically carries a Captain and three Mates during fishing operations.

Requirements

You must have a current USCG MMC, USCG Mate of UFIV (Uninspected Fishing Industry Vessel) – Third Mate Unlimited is preferred, as well as STCW, current STCW Medical Certificate and TWIC.

At least one (1) year of experience is preferred, but not required.

You must pass a pre-employment drug test and participate in our random testing program.

Benefits

You would earn a daily wage with a bonus based on production. (Pay range averages $450-650 daily) The daily wage is paid every two weeks; the case rate bonus is paid 10 business days after the end of each fishing season. After 60 days, you qualify for health benefits (medical, dental and vision) and after one year, life insurance and enrollment in our 401k plan (with company match). Your travel is paid to and from the ship from anywhere in the United States.