Mate (First or Second)

Cardinal Point Captains, Inc; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 67,645 - 74,796; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Significant PTO pay-out

Job summary

Cardinal Point Captains, Inc. is hiring for a position aboard the R/V Lake Guardian, the largest research vessel in the U.S. EPA fleet. The role involves assisting the Captain with navigation and conducting safety drills, while maintaining the ship's operations.

Requirements include holding a valid USCG license, experience with research vessels being a plus. This is a compelling opportunity for those passionate about marine research and environmental stewardship.

Qualifications

• Valid USCG license required for Chief Mate.
• Experience on research vessels preferred.
• Ability to collaborate with scientists and managers.

Responsibilities

• Assist Captain in navigation and ship operations.
• Conduct safety drills and maintain safety compliance.
• Oversee deck maintenance and crew coordination.
• Maintain logs for navigation and safety.

Skills

Navigation assistance

Safety compliance

Team coordination

Communication

Education

Valid USCG license as Mate of Self-Propelled Vessels of Unlimited Tonnage

Job description

Description

Cardinal Point Captains, Inc. (CPC) is seeking a qualified, professional candidate to support the EPA 180‑foot Research Vessel (R/V) Lake Guardian. The ship sails extensively throughout the Great Lakes from April through October and is home‑ported in Milwaukee, WI. R/V Lake Guardian is the largest vessel in the U.S. EPA fleet and is used to sample water, aquatic life, sediments, and air to assess the overall health of the Great Lakes ecosystem.

Location

R/V Lake Guardian, 600 E Greenfield Ave., Milwaukee, WI

Relocation

No relocation offered for this position.

Worksite

R/V Lake Guardian, 600 E Greenfield Ave., Milwaukee, WI

Pay

$366.64–$405.40 per day, plus significant PTO pay‑out.

Classification

Non‑Exempt.

Travel

Yes.

Job Summary

Cardinal Point Captains, Inc. (CPC) is seeking a qualified, professional candidate to support the EPA 180-foot Research Vessel (R/V) Lake Guardian. The ship sails extensively throughout the Great Lakes from April through October and is home‑ported in Milwaukee, WI. R/V Lake Guardian is the largest vessel in the U.S. EPA fleet and is used to sample water, aquatic life, sediments, and air to assess the overall health of the Great Lakes ecosystem.

Tasks

• Stand watch and assist the Captain in navigation and maneuvering of the ship. Maintain navigational equipment and update charts.
• Conduct regular safety drills and inspections, ensuring compliance with maritime safety regulations.
• Oversee maintenance and cleanliness of the deck and superstructure, including equipment. Manage the upkeep of the ship’s hull, rigging, and deck machinery.
• Supervise and coordinate the work of deck officers and crew.
• Maintain logs and records related to navigation, supplies, and safety. Prepare reports for the Captain and company management.
• Act as a liaison between the Captain and the deck crew.
• Communicate with port authorities, agents, and other ships.

Requirements

• The minimum licensing requirement for the Chief Mates is a valid license issued by the USCG with endorsement as Mate of Self‑Propelled Vessels of Unlimited Tonnage upon Great Lakes and Inland waters with licensing or MMC officer endorsement required to serve as a pilot on a vessel in the Great Lakes as specified in 46 CFR 15.812.
• Experience serving as a Mate onboard research vessels is desirable.
• Must be able to work collegially with scientists, natural resource managers, and educators.
• Must be a member, or willing to become a member of the International Organization of Masters, Mates, and Pilots union.
• Must be able to pass a drug screening and background check.
• Must maintain a U.S. passport as well as have a valid U.S. state‑issued driver’s license.

AAP/EEO Statement

CPC is an EEO employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, or covered veteran status.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.