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Third Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Savannah, GA

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Savannah, GA · On-site

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Saint Helens, OR · On-site

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Grand Rivers, KY

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Saint Helens, OR · On-site

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Portland, ME · On-site

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Winona, MN · On-site

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Bangor, ME

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Paducah, KY

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Decatur, AL · On-site

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

New London, CT · On-site

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Brunswick, GA · On-site

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Cape Girardeau, MO

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Dubuque, IA · On-site

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Guilford, CT · On-site

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Gulfport, MS · On-site

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

American Cruise Lines

Third Mate

Brunswick, GA · On-site

Third Mate American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers ...

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Third Mate information

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How much do third mate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for third mate in the United States is $29.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.37 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Third Mates?

A Third Mate is a licensed member of the deck department on a merchant ship, responsible for safety, navigation, and deck operations. They often serve as the ship's safety officer, manage lifeboats and firefighting equipment, and stand navigational watches on the bridge. Third Mates work under the supervision of higher-ranking officers and are key to ensuring safe and efficient vessel operations. This entry-level officer position typically requires certification and sea time, and can lead to advancement to higher ranks with experience.

What is the difference between Third Mate vs Second Mate?

AspectThird MateSecond Mate
Required CertificationsSTCW certification, Basic Safety TrainingSTCW certification, Advanced Safety Training, ECDIS
Work EnvironmentBridge watch, safety duties, navigation supportBridge watch, navigation planning, cargo operations
Employer & Industry UsageMaritime shipping, cargo vessels, cruise shipsMaritime shipping, cargo vessels, cruise ships

The main difference between a Third Mate and a Second Mate lies in their experience level and responsibilities. Third Mates typically handle safety and navigation support, while Second Mates take on more advanced navigation duties and planning. Both roles require similar certifications, but Second Mates usually have more experience and additional training. Both positions are essential in maritime operations, working closely on the ship's bridge in the shipping and cruise industries.

What are some common challenges a Third Mate faces during a typical voyage?

As a Third Mate, you may encounter challenges such as managing fatigue during long watches, quickly adapting to changing weather conditions, and ensuring strict compliance with safety protocols. The role often requires balancing navigation duties with safety inspections and maintenance tasks. Effective communication with the bridge team and crew is essential, especially during emergency drills or busy port operations. Overcoming these challenges helps build strong foundational skills for career advancement to higher officer ranks.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

A Third Mate, a maritime officer responsible for safety and navigation on ships, can earn around $10,000 or more per month with experience and certifications such as STCW. High-paying roles in sales, real estate, or skilled trades like commercial diving or offshore drilling may also reach this income level without a college degree, often requiring specialized training or licenses.

What is a 3rd mate job?

A third mate is a licensed deck officer on a ship responsible for safety equipment, navigation, and watchkeeping duties. They assist the second mate with navigation and cargo operations and typically hold a third mate license after completing maritime training and certifications. The role involves working in a maritime environment, often on a rotating schedule, and requires knowledge of safety protocols and maritime regulations.

What Does a Third Mate Do?

On a merchant marine vessel, the third mate is part of the deck department and is typically the fourth in charge of the ship. Traditionally, as the third mate, you are the safety officer and your duties are to oversee the watch both at sea and when docked, ensure that the crew observes all safety protocols, and oversee safety inspections of things like fire extinguishers and lifeboats. Your responsibilities are to lead any emergency responses necessary on the ship, such as fighting fires.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Third mates in the maritime industry can earn high salaries, especially with extensive experience, specialized certifications, and working on large vessels or in offshore environments. However, salaries reaching $500,000 annually are rare and typically involve senior roles such as ship captains or executives in related maritime or shipping companies. Most positions with such compensation levels require significant expertise, leadership, and often additional responsibilities beyond standard third mate duties.

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

To thrive as a Third Mate, you need a solid understanding of navigation, seamanship, and maritime safety, typically acquired through a maritime academy and a U.S. Coast Guard Third Mate license. Familiarity with electronic navigation systems, radar, ECDIS, and safety management systems is essential. Strong communication, leadership, and decision-making skills help you effectively coordinate with crew and respond to emergencies. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe vessel operations and compliance with international maritime regulations.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Third mates in the maritime industry can earn around $2,000 per day, especially on large commercial vessels or in specialized roles that require extensive experience, certifications, and safety training. Such high daily rates are typically associated with senior positions, offshore work, or roles requiring advanced skills and certifications like STCW or USCG licenses.
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Third Mate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Third Mate job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 25% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,609 per year, or $29.6 per hour.
Third Mate

Third Mate

American Cruise Lines

Savannah, GA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Ensure safety and security of passengers, crew, and vessel.

  • Conduct daily inspections of all vessel spaces and maintain logs, reports, and administrative records.

  • Execute vessel cleaning, sanitation, maintenance, and logistics tasks, and support safe launch operations.

Job description

Third Mate

American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers, Great Lakes, and Mississippi-Ohio-Cumberland-Tennessee-Arkansas Rivers. Our U.S. flag ships are state-of-the art designed for safe operation and five-star service to 100-200 guests.
Third Mates are responsible for safe vessel and launch operations, adherence to company and regulatory standards, and representing the company as a professional leader and example. Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining experience in challenging U.S. coastal and river waterways. Our Third Mates are team-oriented, self-disciplined, and hands-on workers. Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger launches. Our Third Mates are people-oriented professionals and meticulous officers, in service to our guests and as examples to our crews.
Third 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.
  • Safe launch operations in compliance with company and regulatory standards.
  • Conduct daily inspections of all vessel spaces.
  • Standing helm, security, gangway watches in Deckhand rotation.
  • Execution of vessel cleaning, sanitation, maintenance, and logistics.
  • Standing piloting watches under instruction of Captain or Mate.
  • Assisting Engine Room Attendant with machinery and system maintenance.
  • Support hotel and culinary teams in delivering five-star guest service.
  • Maintain logs, reports, and administrative records.
  • Maintain exemplary professional grooming and uniform appearance
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 Master’s license: Masters 100T.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Piloting and Boat Handling experience on coastal and river waterways: minimum 6months, desired 1yr.
  • Self-disciplined work habits and personal grooming.
  • Good communication skills and team skills.
  • Pre-employment drug test and continual participation in random testing.
  • 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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