First Mate / Marine First Officer

Location: Galveston, TX

Job Type: Direct Hire

Schedule: Full-Time / 21-day hitch rotation

Pay Rate: $750 day rate
Monthly cell phone allowance
Vehicle allowance or travel assistance for eligible candidates
Per diem is not provided

Job Summary

The Marine First Officer, serving as second in command, supports the captain in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the vessel. This role oversees navigation, vessel systems, crew coordination, and compliance with safety and regulatory standards. This plays a critical role in maintaining vessel readiness, supervising daily operations, and protecting the safety and security of the crew, equipment, and mission.

The ideal candidate is an experienced maritime professional with strong navigational skills, excellent communication, and proven leadership aboard towing or similar vessels. They thrive in dynamic operational environments, maintain calm under pressure, and demonstrate strict adherence to safety protocols.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Captain in ensuring the safety of all crew members.
• Support voyage planning, navigation, and vessel operations.
• Assist with vessel inspections, certifications, and compliance documentation.
• Supervise and coordinate activities of onboard crews; delegate daily tasks.
• Conduct regular maintenance and safety checks on vessel equipment and systems.
• Operate the vessel and maintain stability during operations.
• Navigate using e-charts, radios, depth finders, radars, lights, buoys, and lighthouses.
• Maintain accurate logs and complete Daily Project Reports (DPR).
• Prepare vessel documents, port call paperwork, provision orders, and purchase orders.
• Maintain vessel inventory and bridge equipment updates.
• Manage crew schedules in accordance with IMO Crew Rest Hours.
• Inspect vessel operations to ensure compliance with Coast Guard regulations.
• Lead and participate in safety meetings, drills, Job Safety Analysis, and Hazard Analysis.
• Follow all safety policies and contribute to an incident and injury free workplace.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Valid credentials listing Mate, Pilot, or Master with endorsement for Mate of Towing Vessels.
• Minimum 300 GT endorsement.
• Proper route endorsement for inland or nearshore routes (Western Rivers/Great Lakes only endorsements not sufficient).
• Strong multitasking abilities with a focus on safe operations.
• Excellent communication skills with crew and office personnel.
• Ability to travel and remain aboard vessel for a 21-day hitch.

Physical & Mental Requirements

Must be able to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation, including:

• Proper use of PPE: hard hat, safety glasses, life vest, respirator, ear protection, steel toed shoes, PFDs, etc.
• Walking, climbing, stepping, and moving across varying heights and access points.
• Standing, bending, crouching, kneeling, squatting, climbing, or sitting for extended periods.
• Repetitive movements involving feet, shoulders, arms, wrists, hands, and back.
• Lifting and carrying up to 30 lbs. individually; up to 60 lbs. with assistance.
• Pushing/pulling up to 150 lbs. peak force.
• Climbing stairs or vertical ladders 6 ft or higher.
• Working in confined spaces or elevated areas.
• Exposure to temperature changes, outdoor conditions, dust, humidity, loud noise, and vibration.
• Maintaining regular attendance and punctuality.

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Agency 8 is a Recruiting and Staffing company that specializes in filling business-related positions. Agency 8 is positively impacting the lives of our employees, clients and communities. Founded in 2008, as a woman-owned historically underutilized business Texas HUB. We have grown tremendously in the last few years due to our innovation in recruiting technology and exceptional customer service. Learn more about us and our mission to improve the lives of our employees, clients and communities by visiting our social media pages.