Foss PNW Captain Trainee/Mate

fossmaritime; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Advancement opportunities

Training programs

Safety culture and teamwork

Job summary

Foss Maritime seeks a qualified Mate to join our harbor tug team operating in Puget Sound. You will assist the Captain in safe navigation and vessel operations, contribute to deck duties, and coordinate with pilots, terminal personnel, customers, and crew to ensure efficient services.

We value proven leadership, strong communication, and a safety-first mindset, with opportunities for professional growth and ongoing training within a legacy-rich maritime company.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated leadership and team development abilities.
• Excellent communication and decision-making skills.
• Strong commitment to vessel safety and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Captain in safe operation and navigation of harbor tugs in Puget Sound.
• Direct deck operations: line handling, towing equipment, mooring, maintenance.
• Coordinate with pilots, terminal staff, customers, and crew for safe operations.
• Maintain compliance with company SMS and safety policies.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Decision-making

Problem-solving

Safety culture

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 a 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 in the safe operation and navigation of harbor tugs engaged in ship assist, escort, docking, undocking, and harbor towing operations throughout Puget Sound.
• Direct deck operations including line handling, towing equipment operation, vessel mooring, and general deck maintenance.
• Coordinate with vessel pilots, terminal personnel, customers, and crew members to support safe and efficient vessel operations.
• Maintain compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and the Foss Safety Management System (SMS) while promoting a strong safety culture and utilizing stop-work authority when necessary.

What We’re Looking For

• Valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), and USCG Medical Certificate.
• Mate of Towing Vessels endorsement or ability to obtain through company qualification requirements.
• 200 GRT Master license, 500 GRT Near Coastal Master License preferred.
• Experience in ship assist, harbor towing, escort towing, or related tugboat operations preferred.
• Strong leadership, communication, decision-making, and problem-solving skills with a commitment to safe vessel operations and crew development.

What We Offer

• Pay for this position will be determined in accordance with applicable collective bargaining agreements and company policies.
• Opportunities for advancement in a legacy-rich company.
• Training and development programs.
• A culture rooted in safety, respect, and teamwork.

Drug Free Workplace

Foss Maritime Company LLC is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing as outlined in company policies.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Foss Maritime Company LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.