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Ship Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mate may command the vessel in the Master's absence for a specified period. Coast Guard License ... Records daily activities in ship's log. * Overall responsibility for implementation and support of ...

Mate may command the vessel in the Master's absence for a specified period. Coast Guard License ... Records daily activities in ship's log. * Overall responsibility for implementation and support of ...

Mate may command the vessel in the Master's absence for a specified period. Coast Guard License ... Records daily activities in ship's log. * Overall responsibility for implementation and support of ...

The third mate is a watchstander and customarily the ship's safety officer and fourth-in-command. The position is junior to a second mate. Other duties vary depending on the type of ship, its crewing ...

The third mate is a watchstander and customarily the ship's safety officer and fourth-in-command. The position is junior to a second mate. Other duties vary depending on the type of ship, its crewing ...

The efficient maintenance and upkeep of all ship to ship/shore access equipment * The efficient ... The Mate shall plan and supervise the work by the deck ratings bearing in mind at all times that ...

The efficient maintenance and upkeep of all ship to ship/shore access equipment * The efficient ... The Mate shall plan and supervise the work by the deck ratings bearing in mind at all times that ...

The efficient maintenance and upkeep of all ship to ship/shore access equipment * The efficient ... The Mate shall plan and supervise the work by the deck ratings bearing in mind at all times that ...

The efficient maintenance and upkeep of all ship to ship/shore access equipment * The efficient ... The Mate shall plan and supervise the work by the deck ratings bearing in mind at all times that ...

Mate Position American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Mates for our U.S. flag fleet. Cruise along ... Mates are senior shipboard officers reporting directly to the Captain and are responsible for safe ...

Mate Position American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Mates for our U.S. flag fleet. Cruise along ... Mates are senior shipboard officers reporting directly to the Captain and are responsible for safe ...

Mate Position American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Mates for our U.S. flag fleet. Cruise along ... Mates are senior shipboard officers reporting directly to the Captain and are responsible for safe ...

Mate Position American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Mates for our U.S. flag fleet. Cruise along ... Mates are senior shipboard officers reporting directly to the Captain and are responsible for safe ...

Mate Position American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Mates for our U.S. flag fleet. Cruise along ... Mates are senior shipboard officers reporting directly to the Captain and are responsible for safe ...

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Ship Mate information

What is the difference between Ship Mate vs Deckhand?

AspectShip MateDeckhand
Required CertificationsSTCW certifications, safety trainingSTCW certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, primarily deck areasOnboard ships, primarily deck areas
Employer & Industry UsageMaritime shipping, cruise linesMaritime shipping, cargo vessels, cruise lines
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Ship Mates and Deckhands work onboard ships in similar environments and require comparable certifications. The main difference lies in responsibilities: Ship Mates often have supervisory duties and assist with navigation, while Deckhands focus on maintenance and deck operations. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right role in the maritime industry.

How much do ship mates make?

Ship mates typically earn between $25,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, vessel type, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced crew members or those working on larger ships can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and benefits.

What are some common challenges ship mates face when working at sea, and how can they prepare for them?

Ship Mates often encounter challenges such as long periods away from home, adjusting to shift work, and managing the safety of both crew and cargo during unpredictable weather. To prepare, it's important to develop strong communication skills, adaptability, and a solid understanding of maritime safety protocols. Building resilience and maintaining a healthy work-life balance on board can help Ship Mates navigate the demands of extended voyages and teamwork in close quarters.

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

To thrive as a Ship Mate, you need strong seamanship, navigation, and leadership skills, typically supported by a maritime degree and relevant licensure such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Familiarity with navigation systems, radar, GPS, and safety management protocols is essential. Excellent communication, decision-making, and teamwork abilities help manage the crew and ensure safety. These skills are crucial for maintaining efficient ship operations and ensuring safety at sea.
What cities are hiring for Ship Mate jobs? Cities with the most Ship Mate job openings:
What states have the most Ship Mate jobs? States with the most job openings for Ship Mate jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Ship Mate jobs? For Ship Mate jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Ship Mate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


University Of South Florida rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

360th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Skilled Craft / Ops Mate

The Mate position serves as the second officer on FIO's research vessels (R/V Weatherbird II and R/V Hogarth). This position is directly involved in all aspects of the daily operation of crew and vessel, both while in-port and underway and is responsible for the safety and welfare of vessel, crew, students, faculty, researchers and other personnel on board in the absence of/or incapacitation of the Marine Captain. This position reports directly to the Marine Captain of either the R/V Weatherbird II or the R/V Hogarth.

Responsibilities

Perform Second Officer (Mate) duties on all uninspected research vessel(s). Stand bridge watches as operating and navigating officer of the watch at sea under direction of the ship's Master. Conducts shipboard and ship-to-shore communications. Directs watch as helmsman, maintains the cleanliness and general condition of the pilothouse, chart room, vessel control stations, and navigating equipment, i.e. perform routine maintenance. Plan and teach courses in seamanship and other marine specialties.

Responsible for safety and welfare of vessel and crew in the absence of or incapacitation of the Marine Captain. Responsible for safe navigation and piloting of the vessel including maneuvering in tight quarters, deploying and recovering over the side scientific equipment, deployment and recovery of oceanographic buoys, supporting SCUBA diving operation and anchoring in various weather conditions. Participate and assign watch duties to crew members and work directly with Captain and chief scientists to ensure perform assigned tasks safely. Prepares administrative reports related to vessel, not limited to maintaining charts and vessel logs, and verifying hours worked.

Responsible for inspection, service and training of all survival equipment. Ensures the crew and science party possess and use all necessary personal safety equipment. Conducts training on portable power and equipment. Conducts and coordinates shipboard safety briefings and orientation for science party on all safety procedures and emergency drill procedures. Possess working knowledge of accurate engineering procedures for rounds while in port and underway to support the engineering dept.

Responsible for training crew in areas of deck operations and evolution, cargo handling, seamanship, marlinspike seamanship, small boat operations, all deck machinery (U-frame, A-frame, deck crane, winches and scientific gear) safety procedures. Supervises topside and interior maintenance to include hull, decks, bulkheads, bulwarks, deck machinery, interior living, science and common spaces and all other associated spaces and equipment and has direct hands-on involvement.

Report any employee relations issues with the appropriate CHR personnel. Work with Marine Captain to develop procedural manuals (operations, safety, emergencies, etc.) on a routine basis. Request purchase orders as necessary. Possess working knowledge of accurate engineering plant and proper procedure for engineering rounds. Support all vessel occupants at sea and in port.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: Two (2) years of at-sea shipboard experience in operating a marine vessel, including pilothouse duties involving navigation of the vessel, one year of which must have been on a marine vessel operating on ocean or near coastal waters. Successful completion of firefighting and radar observer courses approved by the U.S. Coast Guard is required.

Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and two (2) years of experience in piloting marine research vessel operations, supervision of crew to support the mission and function of the area of responsibility. Possession of current certificate of completion for Standards of Training certification, and Watch keeping, Basic Safety Training (STCW-95, BST), First Aid/CPR, Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), valid driver's license and U.S. Passport at the time of hire. Demonstrated knowledge of U.S. Coast Guard rules and regulations, American Bureau of Shipping requirements and vessel stability; Maritime Laws; Current with all applicable laws, regulations, treaties, CFRs, USCG-NVICs; OSHA regulations: Proficient in Dynamic Positioning Systems; knowledge of logistic planning both for domestic and foreign waters/ports. Licensed as a Master, Ocean, any grade, or as a Mate, Ocean or Near Coastal in accordance with Title 46, Part 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations with qualifications for appropriate tonnage to the assigned vessel(s). Valid MMC license of 200T vessel.

Special requirements: must pass a pre-employment drug screen. Possess Medical Certificate with STCW and National Expiration Dates. Job offers are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Please provide the following documents when completing your application:

Curriculum vitae / resume

A copy of academic transcripts

Contact information for three references (one must be your current/most recent supervisor).

The selected candidate must have a current work authorization in the United States. This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.


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About University of South Florida

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The University of South Florida (USF), located in Tampa, FL, US, is a highly respected, long-standing institution specializing in teaching, research, and public service. It operates within the higher education industry and offers over 180 undergraduate, graduate, specialist, and doctoral degree programs, across disciplines ranging from arts and sciences to business, engineering, and healthcare. Founded in the year 1956, USF has relentlessly strived to develop an environment conducive to learning and research, which over the years, has earned it a preeminent status among public universities across the globe. USF's mission is to foster a vibrant, student-centric learning environment that instills an expansive intellectual foundation to drive success. USF is known for its considerable impact on regional and state economies, contributing $5 billion annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Tampa, FL, US

Year founded

1956

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