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Vessel Assist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mate (Vessel)

LA ยท On-site

Provides and/or assist with training * Performs any duty that may be required as part of a training ... Vessel Security Officer (As designated by the Master) * Vessel Security officer HSE ...

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Vessel Assist information

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$9

$23

$43

How much do vessel assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for vessel assist in the United States is $23.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $26.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Vessel Assist vs Marine Technician?

AspectVessel AssistMarine Technician
Required CredentialsMaritime certifications, boating licensesTechnical certifications, HVAC, electrical, or mechanical licenses
Work EnvironmentMarinas, waterways, on boatsWorkshops, ships, industrial settings
Employer & IndustryMarina services, boat clubs, maritime companiesShip maintenance, repair shops, industrial firms

Vessel Assist primarily involves providing on-water assistance, towing, and rescue services for boats and yachts, requiring maritime certifications. Marine Technicians focus on repairing and maintaining marine engines and systems, often working in workshops or industrial settings. While both roles serve the maritime industry, Vessel Assist emphasizes on-water support, whereas Marine Technicians specialize in technical repairs.

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

To thrive as a Vessel Assist, you need a solid understanding of maritime operations, boating safety, and seamanship, often supported by relevant certifications such as a USCG captain's license. Familiarity with marine radios, navigation systems (like GPS and radar), and towing equipment is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient assistance of vessels in distress, protecting both crew and property.

What are some common challenges faced by Vessel Assist crew members during marine towing operations?

Vessel Assist crew members often encounter unpredictable weather conditions, challenging sea states, and mechanical issues while performing towing or rescue operations. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as tasks frequently require coordination with both the distressed vessel and other crew members. Additionally, long or irregular hours can be common, especially during peak boating seasons or emergencies. Staying calm under pressure and being adaptable are important traits for success in this role.

What are Vessel Assist services?

Vessel Assist services provide boaters with on-water assistance such as towing, fuel delivery, jump starts, and help with minor mechanical issues. These services are typically available to recreational and commercial boaters who encounter trouble on the water, such as engine failure or running aground. Vessel Assist is often compared to roadside assistance for vehicles, offering peace of mind and support when unexpected problems arise during boating. Members usually receive priority service and may avoid costly out-of-pocket expenses for emergency aid.
What cities are hiring for Vessel Assist jobs? Cities with the most Vessel Assist job openings:
What states have the most Vessel Assist jobs? States with the most job openings for Vessel Assist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Vessel Assist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,619 per year, or $23.4 per hour.
Unlicensed Vessel Assistant Engineer 2026

Unlicensed Vessel Assistant Engineer 2026

O'Hara Corporation

Seattle, WA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Excellence. Innovation. Integrity. Passion.

Assistant Engineers work under the direction, guidance, and training of the Chief Engineer to assist in operation, maintenance and repair the vesselโ€™s operating systems: diesel engines, generators, refrigeration, electrical and hydraulic equipment, water making and sanitary equipment, deck machinery, factory equipment, pumps, cooling, and conveyor systems during the portion of their shift scheduled in the engine room. Assistant engineers, under the direction of the Chief Engineer, may maintain the engine room and other logs as required by the company or other agencies. Assistant Engineers also assist in fueling the vessel and transferring fuel onboard.

Essential Duties

Assistant Engineers must be able to:

  • Work under the direction, guidance, and training of the chief engineer.
  • Assist in operation, maintenance, and repair of the vesselโ€™s operating systems: diesel engines, generators, refrigeration, electrical and hydraulic equipment, water making and sanitary equipment, deck machinery and fish hauling equipment, factory equipment, pumps, cooling, and conveyor systems.
  • Perform work assignments under the direction of the chief engineer.
  • Assist in transfer bulk petroleum products.
  • Maintain an inventory control system.
  • Under oversight of the chief engineer, prepare department records and reports as required by the company, USCG, OSHA and other agencies.
  • Oversee a safety program.
  • Ensure all engineering crew are trained and fully cognizant of the job hazards.
  • Ensure LOCK OUT-TAGS PLUS procedures are communicated, followed, and enforced.
  • Resolve technical problems as they occur.
  • Give specific directions in the case of an emergency.
  • Work up to eight (8) hours of each shift in the factory assisting in fish processing operations, as directed by the Factory Foreman.

Work Schedule

  • Assistant engineers work at least 16 hours per day, 7 days per week.
  • Work hours may be extended as necessary which may result in uneven shifts and sleep patterns.
  • Breaks are determined by the business needs of the fish processing plant. Unplanned, unscheduled breaks are prohibited except in health or safety related incidents.

Work Environment

  • While performing the duties of this job, employees and the vessel will be operating in extremely remote and austere locations; often days away from land or dock facilities.
  • While performing the duties of this job, employees are expected to wear protective clothing and equipment such as rain gear (pants and sleeves), gloves, rubber boots, noise suppression devices, and use as required: hardhat, safety goggles, fire extinguisher, respirator, life preserver and survival suit.
  • Employees will be exposed to various species of fish; wet, humid and freezing conditions; fish processing equipment such as headers, movable and stationary conveyor systems, knives, hoists, pressure washers, cleaning chemicals, shovels, buckets, baskets and aluminum pans.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually loud. Employees work onboard a vessel in the ocean which by nature produces varying degrees of motion in the factory.
  • While performing the duties of this job, Engineers are regularly exposed to moving machinery, vibration, and risk of electrical shock.

Requirements

Education, Experience

  • Engine room experience on a catcher processor vessel.
  • Earned High School Diploma or GED. Education verification will be required prior to hire.
  • 24 months or more of relevant verifiable work experience in the last 4 years. Work history must be provided during the application process. No Exceptions.

Physical Demands

All employees must be able to:

  • Board and exit the vessel by gangplank or Jacobโ€™s ladder without assistance.
  • Board or exit a skiff without assistance in all weather conditions.
  • Ascend and descend steep stairways and ladders in all temperatures.
  • Work at least 16 ยฝ hours per day, 7 days per week for the duration of the contract.
  • Perform repetitive tasks for extended periods of time.
  • Stand and walk; lift weights up to and over 50 pounds for full range from floor to above their head repeatedly.
  • Use fingers, hands and arms to push, pull and reach.
  • Bend and twist.
  • Stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.
  • Work long hours in all kinds of weather.
  • Work in a cold and wet environment.
  • Don life jacket, life vest and/or survival suit without assistance.
  • Must be able to pass pre-employment and random drug tests per USCG regulations. This job is designated by Oโ€™Hara Corporation to be Safety Sensitive, and a pre-employment drug screen is part of the hiring process.

Mental Activities

All employees must be able to:

  • Ability to understand and have the ability to communicate in English for emergency, safety, and training purposes is required.
  • Use interpersonal and teamwork skills.
  • Live and work with others in close quarters.
  • Be away from medical care and supervision for 3+ months at a time.
  • Share crew quarters, bathroom facilities, and common dining areas with other crew members.
  • Discern between various shades of color for identifying and sorting various fish species as well as for safety signs, alarms, and warnings.

Benefits

  • Medical, vision and dental insurance is offered to employees and qualified dependents, if elected.
  • 401(k) with employer match after one year of employment, if elected.
  • Meals, snacks, and beverages provided including diverse cuisine options while at sea. (Additional at-sea store available for specialty items to purchase and have deducted from paycheck)
  • Oโ€™Hara will book and pre-pay flight and lodging from Point of Hire- Seattle, WA to Dutch Harbor, AK.

Compensation

  • Crew-share compensation
  • $425 - $575 average daily rate DOE

Oโ€™Hara Corporation provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.