We are recruiting for an experienced First Mate to join a leading dredging and marine construction contractor aboard a multicat vessel supporting marine construction, dredging, towing, anchor handling, and project support operations. Reporting directly to the Captain, the First Mate serves as the second-in-command and is responsible for the safe navigation and operation of the vessel while overseeing deck crews and supporting the successful execution of offshore and nearshore construction projects. This role requires strong leadership, excellent navigational skills, and the ability to work safely in demanding marine environments while living aboard the vessel during scheduled rotations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist the Captain in the safe navigation, operation, and management of a multicat vessel supporting dredging and marine construction projects.
- Supervise deck crews and coordinate daily vessel operations, ensuring work is completed safely and efficiently.
- Plan voyages, stand bridge watch, and operate navigational equipment including radar, ECDIS/electronic charts, GPS, and communication systems.
- Support towing, anchor handling, barge positioning, and other marine construction support activities.
- Monitor vessel stability and ensure safe operations during lifting, towing, dredging support, and project activities.
- Conduct vessel inspections and assist with regulatory surveys, Coast Guard inspections, and certification requirements.
- Maintain accurate vessel logs, Daily Project Reports (DPRs), bridge records, and operational documentation.
- Coordinate crew schedules and ensure compliance with crew rest hour regulations and company policies.
- Lead onboard safety meetings, emergency drills, and Job Safety Analyses (JSAs) while promoting a strong safety culture.
- Communicate effectively with the Captain, project management, and shore-based teams to support successful project delivery.
Requirements:
- Valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential with Mate, Pilot, or Master endorsement, including Mate of Towing Vessels where applicable.
- Minimum 300 Gross Tons endorsement.
- Appropriate Inland and/or Near Coastal route endorsement (Western Rivers or Great Lakes endorsements alone are not sufficient).
- Previous experience serving as a Mate aboard multicat, tug, towing, dredging, or marine construction vessels.
- Strong knowledge of vessel navigation, towing operations, anchor handling, and marine construction support activities.
- Experience supervising deck crews and coordinating operations in a marine construction or dredging environment.
- Strong understanding of USCG regulations, vessel inspections, and maritime safety requirements.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and decision-making skills in dynamic operational environments.
- Ability to live aboard the vessel and work rotational schedules, including 21-day hitches at remote project locations.
- Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, teamwork, and operational excellence.
Does this position match your experience? Apply today!
Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.
Tyler Horton