1

Watchkeeping Mates Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Watchkeeping Mates information

See salary details

$11K

$69.9K

$85.5K

How much do watchkeeping mates jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for watchkeeping mates in the United States is $69,930.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $81,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Watchkeeping Mates vs Able Seamen?

AspectWatchkeeping MatesAble Seamen
CertificationsSTCW certifications, Watchkeeping Mate licenseSTCW certifications, Basic safety training
Work EnvironmentBridge team, navigation duties, watchkeepingDeck crew, general maintenance, cargo handling
Employer & Industry UsageMaritime shipping, commercial vesselsShipping companies, cargo ships, tankers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Watchkeeping Mates and Able Seamen both work onboard ships and require STCW certifications. However, Watchkeeping Mates hold a license allowing them to perform navigation and watchkeeping duties, while Able Seamen typically focus on deck maintenance and cargo operations. The roles often overlap in the maritime industry, but Watchkeeping Mates have more advanced responsibilities related to navigation and safety.

What are popular job titles related to Watchkeeping Mates jobs?

For Watchkeeping Mates jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

AB-Limited Program Instructor

Astoria, OR • On-site

Management and Training Corporation
5 - 10K employees

$64K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description


AB-Limited Program Instructor
$64,246 annually
**Please provide a detailed cover letter with your application submission.**
Set Sail for Success! Join our team as a Maritime Deck Instructor and help shape the next generation of skilled maritime professionals. If you have a passion for the sea and a dedication to teaching, this is your opportunity to make an impact!
This position offers a consistent Monday-Friday schedule, providing regular weekday hours for a balanced work-life routine. Other benefits include:
  • Generous pension plan (7% of annual gross)
  • Premium employer-paid benefits for the employee and their family
  • 30 vacation days per year & 16 sick days per year
  • Union 401K - no match

Duties Include:
  • Curriculum delivery: Design lessons and practicums that adhere to the USCG-approved AB-Limited curriculum.
  • Instruction and Training: Teach classes, lead practical exercises, and oversee hands-on training sessions supporting the curriculum.
  • Manage and mentor seamanship students, ensuring quality and adherence to curriculum guidelines.
  • Deck Instructors serve as operating crew when training students underway on our training vessels. Instructors serve as Mates, Boatswains, and Deckhands while teaching students on the Columbia River and Pacific Ocean.
  • Student Assessment: Evaluate student progress, provide feedback, and conduct assessments to ensure competency in maritime skills.
  • Laboratory and Workshop Maintenance: This position supports the maintenance, safety, and availability of lab equipment, simulators, and AB-Limited program workshops.
  • Compliance and Safety: Ensure all training and facilities comply with maritime regulatory standards and safety protocols.
  • Professional Development: Stay current with industry practices, update certifications, and participate in ongoing professional development.
  • Collaboration with the Maritime Industry: Build relationships with industry stakeholders to align training with real-world demands and potential student career opportunities.
  • Administration and Reporting: Manage schedules, record-keeping, and reporting requirements as specified by the DOL, MTC, NMC, and other regulatory bodies as appropriate.
  • Advisory Role: Act as an advisor to students, helping them understand career pathways, licensure, and industry expectations.

Job Requirements
  • Valid and current Merchant Mariner Credential.
  • STCW Certification: Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) endorsement specific to engineering, including advanced safety and firefighting.
  • Sea Experience: Extensive experience at sea in progressively responsible engineering roles, typically including prior experience as a Chief Engineer.
  • Knowledge of Maritime Regulations: Familiarity with applicable national and international maritime regulations and standards for training vessels.
  • Medical Fitness Certificate: Up-to-date medical certificate confirming fitness for duty at sea.
  • Leadership and Management Training: Certification in maritime leadership or management, as required by STCW.
  • Teaching or Training Certification: Qualification in training or instructing through a USCG-certified Train the Trainer Course.
  • First Aid and CPR Certification: Current certification in first aid, CPR, and emergency response specific to maritime standards.
  • New hires will be required to join the union for the purposes of health and retirement benefits.

Preferred:
  • Marine Engineering Degree: Bachelor's degree in marine engineering or a related field
  • Security Awareness Training: Maritime security certification, such as Vessel Security Officer (VSO) training.

Management & Training Corporation (MTC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, disabled status, veteran status, genetic information, national origin, or any other category protected by federal law. MTC participates in E-Verify. We strive to provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities, including disabled veterans, in our job application and hiring process. If you are interested in employment opportunities with Management & Training Corporation and need assistance, please contact our staffing department through customersupport@mtctrains.com or 801-693-2888.
About Us
Learn more about Management & Training Corporation here