Senior Mate for Tall-Ship Sailing School Vessel

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; Concord Township (PA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Room and board provided

Job summary

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania seeks a Second Mate for the U.S. Brig Niagara, its Erie flag-ship program. The role leads a crew aboard a square-rigged sailing vessel, overseeing maintenance, safety drills, and navigation while teaching visitors about maritime history.

The position runs March through October 2027 with day sails and instructional programs; candidates must hold USCG licenses and have multiple years of traditional rig sailing experience. Room and board provided.

Qualifications

• Two years command experience aboard sailing ships of 100 ton rating or greater.
• US Coast Guard license endorsements required for early command.
• STCW 95 and medical certification are mandatory.
• TWIC credential is required.

Responsibilities

• Maintenance Oversight: supervise care of mechanical systems, rigging, masts, yards, hull and superstructure.
• Crew Training: lead drills and show crew, volunteers, and trainees how to perform tasks.
• Navigation Support: maintain charts, publications, and navigation/communication equipment.
• Watch Duties: serve as officer of the deck or direct crew during sail operations.
• Historical Interpretation: explain ship history to guests and describe life on a 19th-century vessel.

Skills

Command experience on sailing ships

Square rig experience

Crew leadership

Education

USCG 200 ton Near Coastal Mates License with Auxiliary Sail endorsement

STCW 95

USCG Medical Certificate

TWIC

Job description

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania seeks a Second Mate for the U.S. Brig Niagara, its Erie flag-ship program. The role leads a crew aboard a square-rigged sailing vessel, overseeing maintenance, safety drills, and navigation while teaching visitors about maritime history.

The position runs March through October 2027 with day sails and instructional programs; candidates must hold USCG licenses and have multiple years of traditional rig sailing experience. Room and board provided.