Chief Mate Oceans - Seattle, WA

Req. Number 003-4401
Posting Date May 05, 2026
Address 450 Alaskan Way South Ste 706, Seattle, Washington 98104, United States
Job Description

About Foss Maritime

Foss Maritime is one of the most recognized and respected maritime brands in the U.S., combining a rich legacy with a forward-thinking approach to industry innovation. While deeply rooted in tradition, Foss is evolving at a fast pace, continuously setting new standards for operational excellence and sustainability.

With operations spanning all U.S. coasts and global transportation projects, Foss is a leader in harbor and terminal towage, tug and barge transportation, and offshore energy solutions, including traditional energy and offshore wind projects. Our primary operations are on the U.S. West Coast, Alaska, and Hawaii.

As part of the Saltchuk family of companies, Foss is a values-driven organization that takes pride in its exceptional team, commitment to safety, and dedication to customer success. With a culture built on integrity, innovation, and collaboration, Foss Maritime remains a trusted leader in the maritime industry.

About the Role

As Chief Mate , you'll be an essential part of our mission to provide safe and reliable maritime services. You'll work alongside a dedicated team that values professionalism, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

What You'll Do

• Assist the captain with towing, docking, and unloading barges and other vessels, from port to port.
• Steer, operate, push, and pull barges as directed by the captain to its perspective destinations and/or berths.
• While towing, monitor water depth, weather, surging and other traffic, keeping the tow wire, which at times is at great length, clear of the bottom, navigational aids, and other vessels.
• Directly operate winches, engines, generators and electrical systems along with wheelhouse navigational electronics and devices.
• Analyze each job to determine what equipment is best suited to handle the job.
• Utilize platforms onboard to maintain vessel documents (Helm).
• Enter hours worked for crew members
• Follow proper procedures when handling emergency situations.
• Assist with inspection of Tugs; ensure compliance and learning the Foss SMS/ ISM/VMS.
• Responsible for the safety of the vessel and crew while docked, as well as for the safe movement and navigation of the vessel and their tows while underway.

What We're Looking For

• Valid USCG Merchant Mariner Document or Merchant Mariner Credential (minimum USCG 1600 GT Mate upon Oceans License with Mate of Towing Vessels upon Oceans and STCW).
• Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), Passport & USCG issued Medical Certificate.
• Minimum of two years vessel experience as a Deckhand, Deckhand/Engineer or licensed deck officer experience.

What We Offer

• Chief Mates are paid on a day rate basis. For each day worked, they will receive $800. $400 will be paid directly, the other $400 will be in accumulated time off (ATO) for use when not on board.
• The benefit program includes medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family.
• Life insurance equal to two times annual base salary.
• Accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Long term disability insurance.
• 401k program with a 4% match, vested immediately.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Business travel assistance program.
• Other voluntary benefits are available for purchase via payroll deduction at group rates.
• All other benefits as required by law

How to Apply

Ready to set sail with Foss? Submit your application via our careers page. If you need any assistance please reach out to View email address on click.appcast.io. We look forward to welcoming you aboard.

Drug Free Workplace
Foss Maritime Company LLC is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Foss Maritime Company LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

Compensation Chief Mates are paid on a day rate basis. For each day worked, they will receive $800. $400 will be paid directly, the other $400 will be in accumulated time off (ATO) for use when not on board.