First Mate (Shipboard)

TITLE: First Mate (Shipboard)
DEPARTMENT: Coral Reef
REPORTS TO: Captain/Director of Operations
STATUS: Full-time, Exempt
SALARY: $69,000 - $72,000
LOCATION: Miami, FL.

TIME COMMITMENT:

• 12/14 hour days
• 10-day trips with 6 days docked in between.
• Season: March - September 2026
• Off-season boat maintenance continues throughout the rest of the year

POSITION OVERVIEW: The First Mate serves as second-in-command aboard the Research Vessel Coral Reef II and must be capable of assuming full command in the absence of the captain. The position requires that the First Mate work at the direction of the captain to supervise and coordinate day-to-day activities and to participate fully in those activities.     
 
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.   

• With instruction from the captain, be proficient with the handling characteristics of the vessel (maneuvering, docking, anchoring, etc.) as well as the operation of critical systems (electronic navigation aids, steering, de-watering, safety apparatus, water maker, etc.) 
• Perform navigational watches while underway and safety/anchor/dock watches at other times when needed. 
• Assist the captain with maintenance of the vessel and maintain the required logbooks according to established practice and in established formats. 
• Direct and supervise the Chef/deckhand position and ensure that he/she understands and performs his/her assigned duties adequately. Assist the captain with training and orientation of new crew members.  
• Be capable of coordinating line-handling when coming to port, anchoring, skiff-launching and retrieval, deck maintenance, and safety. 
• Participate in the execution of emergency drills. Help ensure written drill reports are properly logged when acting as the master. 
• Work with the captain to create a plan for long- and short-term maintenance and repairs of the vessel. 
• Responsible for the daily repair and maintenance of the vessel and support tenders as directed by the captain. 
• Follow the Shedd Purchasing Manual to purchase supplies and equipment as needed. 
• In the absence of the captain, be able to fulfill the legal requirements and documents for proper compliance and/or clearance of the vessel in local and international waters. 
• In the absence of the captain, act as liaison with the U.S. Coast Guard to oversee inspections and administer a Coast Guard-approved drug-free policy. 
• In the absence of the captain, perform orientation and safety talks when leaving the dock. 
• Oversee the safety of all persons on board. 
• Perform other duties as assigned. 

QUALIFICATIONS: The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. 

Education: College Degree preferred.
 
Experience:   

• 5 years of relevant work experience, including a minimum of 3 years of experience as a Licensed Mate. 
• Excellent ship handling and navigational skills. 
• Experience maintaining boats and equipment on board, such as anchor winches, navigational systems, generators, water makers, and pumps. 
• Experience maintaining diesel engines and gasoline outboard engines. 
• Excellent communications and customer service. 
• Knowledge of maritime laws and regulations. 
• Ability to effectively communicate in an emergency. 
• Ability to distinguish an object or shape from a distance. 
• Ability to distinguish differences in texture and temperature by feel. 
• Ability to learn financial planning software: Manager Reporter, ADP E-time. 
• Ability to use computers and sophisticated marine electronics as it relates to the operation and navigation of a vessel. 
• Outgoing and friendly demeanor, able to engage and communicate easily with passengers and crew. 
• Familiarity with Bahamian waters, weather conditions, history, and current events. 
• Proficient in Windows, Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and Word, familiarity with Nobeltec TimeZero Navigation software a plus; plus, general writing abilities. 

Designations/Certifications/Licenses:  

• USCG Merchant Mariner License – Minimum 100 Ton Master Near Coastal is required.
• STCW basic training certification is required.
• SCUBA certification is required.
• A valid driver’s license is required. 
• A valid U.S. passport is required.
• First aid training is up-to-date and is required.
• Current AED/CPR training is required. 

Physical Ability: 

• Lift, pull, push, and carry up to 50 pounds. 
• Sit, Stand, Stoop, Crouch, Kneel, and Walk.  
• Physical Exertion and/or Muscular Strain. 
• Maintain balance (equilibrium) on a moving vessel. 
• Climb up and down vertical ladders and stairways. 
• Step over high door sills and coamings and move through restricted access. 
• Manipulate mechanical devices using manual and digital dexterity and strength. 
• Use hand tools such as wrenches, hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, and socket sets. 

Work Environment:  

• Long hours in isolated settings. 
• Living with a small community of people 24/7.  
• Sharing a room with Captain. 
• Hazardous and rough weather conditions. 
• Tight spaces, water, smoke, heat, and cold. 
• Electrical circuits, hazardous chemicals, loud noises. 

BENEFITS OF WORKING AT SHEDD: We offer competitive compensation packages and opportunities for professional growth within our organization. 

• Medical Insurance, including FSA and HSA plan options
• Vision and Dental Insurance 
• Accrued Paid Time Off 
• Up to 12 Paid Holidays 
• Life Insurance 
• Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance
• 401(k)
• Discounted Parking and Public Transit Subsidies
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Wellness program, including Preventive Care Incentive 
• Employee Discounts
• Employee Tickets 

Reasonable Accommodations: 
Shedd Aquarium is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need reasonable accommodations for any part of the employment process, please email us at jobs@sheddaquarium.org. 

We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ community, veterans and active duty military, parents, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from all cultural backgrounds to apply. Shedd Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team. 

Salary : $69,000 - $72,000