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Ship Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Cascade Locks, OR · On-site

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Saint Paul, MN

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Biloxi, MS · On-site

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Jacksonville, FL

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Portland, ME · On-site

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

McAllister Towing

Mate

Staten Island, NY

$708/day

In addition to ship docking services and general harbor assist work, New York based tugs are ... Mate - Meet the Captains and Mates at McAllister Towing Description/Job Summary: The Mate is ...

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Louisville, KY · On-site

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Davenport, IA · On-site

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Davenport, IA · On-site

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Cascade Locks, OR · On-site

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Astoria, OR

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

Memphis, TN

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

La Crosse, WI

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

American Cruise Lines

Mate

New London, CT · On-site

Mate American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Mates for our U.S. flag fleet. American Cruise Lines ... 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.

What is the highest paying job on a ship?

The highest paying job on a ship is typically the captain or master, who is responsible for overall vessel operation and safety. They often earn the most due to their experience, leadership responsibilities, and required certifications such as a Master Mariner license. Other high-paying roles include chief engineer and chief officer, depending on the vessel and industry sector.

Can I work on a ship with no experience?

Ship mates can often start with little or no prior experience, as many entry-level positions provide on-the-job training. Basic skills such as teamwork, physical fitness, and a willingness to learn are important, and some certifications like STCW may be required for certain roles. Experience can improve prospects, but it is not always mandatory for entry-level positions on ships.

What are ship mates and what do they do?

Ship mates are licensed officers on a vessel who assist the captain in navigating, operating, and managing the crew. They are responsible for watchkeeping, ensuring safety protocols are followed, supervising the loading and unloading of cargo, and maintaining equipment. Depending on the size of the ship, there may be multiple mates with different ranks, such as first, second, or third mate, each with specific duties. The role requires strong leadership, attention to detail, and knowledge of maritime laws and navigation techniques.

What does a shipmate do?

A shipmate is a crew member on a ship responsible for assisting with daily operations, maintenance, and safety procedures. They perform tasks such as cleaning, handling cargo, operating equipment, and supporting navigation and communication systems, often working in a team environment and following safety protocols.

What Do Shipmates Do?

The job duties of a shipmate include working as part of a crew on a cargo ship, container vessel, transport ship, or another type of large boat. The responsibilities of a shipmate depend on your experience and the needs of the ships on which you work. You may help work to navigate or steer the boat, or they may be responsible for onboard systems. Some shipmates may work on safety and security and ensure that the other sailors follow all maritime regulations.

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.

How to become a shipmate?

To become a shipmate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, and basic seamanship skills. Gaining experience through entry-level positions or apprenticeships and obtaining relevant certifications such as STCW may improve job prospects. Training is often provided on the job, and a valid maritime license or credential may be required depending on the vessel and role.
More about Ship Mate jobs
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 job categories do people searching Ship Mate jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ship Mate jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Ship Mate jobs? For Ship Mate jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Ship Mate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Mate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.
Mate

Mate

American Cruise Lines

Cascade Locks, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Mate
American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Mates for our U.S. flag fleet. American Cruise Lines cruise along inland and coastal waterways, including the East Coast, Alaska, Pacific Northwest, Columbia amp; Snake Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, Cumberland Rivers, and Great Lakes. American Cruise Lines modern vessels accommodate 100 to 200 guests designed for safe navigation and exceptional service.

Mates are senior shipboard officers reporting directly to the Captain and are responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to company and regulatory standards, and representing the company as a professional leader. Our Mates are experienced mariners with firsthand piloting experience in challenging coastal and river waterways. Our Mates are skilled team and time managers, supervising daily deck teams while also developing piloting expertise on our coastal and river routes. Our Mates are prudent decision-makers continually reducing risk by keeping our crew tasks ahead of daily and weekly schedules. Our Mates are people-oriented leaders and meticulous professionals, in service to our guests and as examples to our crews.

Mates enjoy comfortable onboard accommodations and chef prepared meals. American Cruise Lines operates our own bridge simulator, enabling rigorous recurrent training and development focused on critical decision-making and advanced piloting skills. American Cruise Lines recruits and retains the best professional mariners in the industry.

At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values—Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America’s Story on the Finest American Ships.
Responsibilities:
  • Ensure safety and security of passengers, crew, and vessel.
  • Operate the vessel in compliance with company and regulatory standards.
  • Conduct daily inspections of all vessel spaces.
  • Supervise, lead, and develop deck officers.
  • Execution of Vessel cleaning, sanitation, maintenance, and logistics.
  • Execution of Crew orientation, training, watch standing, and emergency drills.
  • Teamwork with Hotel Officers and Service Crew ensuring five-star guest service.
  • Administrative documentation of cleaning, sanitation, maintenance, and logistics.
  • Leadership of safe, secure, clean, and comfortable onboard environment for passengers and crew.
Work Schedule:
  • Typical March through November Cruise Season: 6 weeks on / 3 weeks off or 4 weeks on / 4 weeks off. Additional work periods may be possible during winter months aboard the few vessels operating or repositioning year-round.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.
Qualifications:
  • U.S. Coast Guard Mate’s license: minimum 100T, desired license 1600T.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Mate experience on coastal and river waterways: minimum 2yrs, desired 5yrs with Z-drive experience.
  • Basic marine engineering knowledge of diesel machinery, hydraulics, and liquid load management.
  • Excellent communication skills and team-building skills.
  • Pre-employment drug test and continual participation in random testing.
  • Great Lakes Mate: Route familiarization and recency in all or several areas including: St. Lawrence Seaway, Welland Canal, St. Mary's River, and U.S. port routes in Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake Huron, and Lake Michigan.
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.
Essential Functions:
  • Ships experience forces from wind, waves, and currents, prompting them to exhibit six distinct motions known as ship motions. The six motions are surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch, and yaw. This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion.
  • Ability to work around 12 hours per day.
  • Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening, and passing through a 20” diameter hatch.
  • Ability to stand for your entire shift.
  • Ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to frequently bend, squat and reach.
  • Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to use stairs frequently.
Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive daily rate.
  • Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match.
  • Access to advanced simulator-based training.
  • Covered Expenses: American Cruise Lines provides travel, room and board, uniforms, and training.
Applicant Acknowledgment
By proceeding to apply for the above position, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of the job position for which I am applying, I agree that it accurately reflects the essential functions of the position, and I represent that I can complete the essential functions of the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
American Cruise Lines is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ‎American Cruise Lines bases all employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual ‎qualifications without regard to protected characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin and citizenship, age (40 and over), disability (including perceived disability), generic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. ‎This policy applies to all aspects of employment and employment decisions, including, but not limited to, ‎hiring, selection, job assignment, training, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access ‎to benefits.‎
*Job sites across the nation.
**This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position and such duties and responsibilities may change without notice.

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