Senior Ship Mate — Lead Deck Operations & Safety

American Cruise Lines; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, vision

401(k) with match

Simulator-based training

Travel and room/board covered

Uniforms provided

Job summary

American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Mates for our U.S. flag fleet. Mates are senior shipboard officers responsible for safe vessel operations and representing the company with professionalism.

They supervise deck teams, develop piloting skills, and ensure adherence to standards while delivering exceptional guest service. The role emphasizes leadership, risk management, and the ability to work across challenging coastal and river routes, with access to simulator-based training and modern

Qualifications

• U.S. Coast Guard Mate’s license with 100 GRT and Near Coastal endorsement; 1,600 GRT preferred.
• TWIC credential required.
• 2+ years mate experience on coastal/river waterways; 5+ years with Z-drive preferred.
• Basic marine engineering knowledge (diesel, hydraulics, liquid load).
• Excellent communication and team-building skills.
• Pre-employment drug test and ongoing random testing.
• Great Lakes Mate route familiarity on St. Lawrence Seaway, Welland Canal, St. Mary’s etc.

Responsibilities

• Ensure safety and security of passengers, crew, and vessel.
• Operate vessel per company and regulatory standards.
• Conduct daily inspections of vessel spaces.
• Supervise, lead, and develop deck officers.
• Oversee cleaning, sanitation, maintenance, and logistics.
• Lead crew orientation, training, watch standing, and drills.
• Coordinate with Hotel Officers and Service Crew for five-star service.
• Document cleaning, sanitation, maintenance, and logistics.
• Lead a safe, clean onboard environment for all aboard.

Skills

Coast Guard Mate license

TWIC

Z-drive experience

Team leadership

Strong communication

Tools

Basic marine engineering knowledge

Job description

American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Mates for our U.S. flag fleet. Mates are senior shipboard officers responsible for safe vessel operations and representing the company with professionalism.

They supervise deck teams, develop piloting skills, and ensure adherence to standards while delivering exceptional guest service. The role emphasizes leadership, risk management, and the ability to work across challenging coastal and river routes, with access to simulator-based training and modern