Question
5-10

Mate Northwest

2/20/2026

The Mate reports to the Master, assisting in the safe and efficient operation of the vessel while overseeing and directing crew deck duties according to company policies. Key duties include planning and supervising deck work, leading safe tow operations, inspecting cargo, maintaining certifications, and standing diligent watches.

Working Hours

40 hours/week

Company Size

501-1,000 employees

Language

English

Visa Sponsorship

No

About The Company
Sause Bros. provides a full range of marine transportation services to clients in the Pacific Rim: from ocean towing, cargo handling, oil towing, and ship assist, to marine construction and repair. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality of service, with certifications in both the International Safety Management Code and the American Waterways Operators Responsible Carrier Program. Whether it's lumber, plywood, paper, petroleum products, chemicals, bulk commodities, containers, oversized, overweight, or specialty cargoes, we have the people, the equipment, and the expertise to meet our customers'​ needs. We own and operate a fleet of tugs and barges to further accomodate our customers. Founded in 1938 we seamlessly operate out of 6 locations (4 on the West Coast and 2 in Hawaii). Please check our website for current job postings.
About the Role

Description

General Description:

This position reports directly to the Master, and assists in the safe and efficient operation of the vessel, and is responsible for overseeing and directing the crew in their respective deck duties. It is the responsibility of the Mate to see that all deck operations and procedures are carried out in accordance with approved company policies and procedures 

Responsibilities/Performance Standards:

1. Carry out all instructions from the Master.

2. Assist the Master in the daily operation of the tug.

3. Follow approved Sause Bros.’ operational procedures and guidelines in the course of executing responsibilities.

4. In conjunction with Master, plan and supervise appropriate deck work.

5. Lead crew members in safely making and breaking tow, and in the safe and proper moorage of the tug and tow.

6. Inspect the tow and cargo prior to departure and report any hazards or potential problems to the Master

7. Maintain current all certifications and endorsements necessary to the position of Mate on a Sause Bros.’ towing vessel.

8. Stand a diligent watch and safely navigate the vessel in accordance with applicable international, federal, state, and harbor regulations.

9. Inventory, order, and supervise the proper stowage of deck stores on a per voyage basis.

10. Responsibility for the proper maintenance of the vessel:

a. Inspect vessel weekly, prioritize maintenance needs.

b. If maintenance operations may be safely carried out while at sea, implement or lead such operations.

c. If maintenance operations cannot be safely or appropriately carried out while at sea, notify Master and plan for necessary maintenance in port.

d. Ensure that all maintenance operations are carried out safely, with appropriate personal protective equipment.

11. Assist Master in crew safety meetings, emergency preparedness drills, and other training as needed.

12. Assist Master as requested during emergency situations.

13. Assume command of the vessel and tow in the event the Master becomes unable to discharge his duties. Such circumstances, for example, may result from severe illness or injury. Command of the vessel may be assumed by the Mate only under extreme circumstances, with an understanding of the burden of responsibility adhering thereto.

14. General housekeeping duties as directed by the Master.

15. Be familiar with the operation and maintenance of all deck machinery, including the tow winch, and deck barge machinery.

16. Wear personal protective equipment as appropriate to safely complete job tasks.

17. Assist in the loading and off loading of stores and equipment.

18. Provide appropriate training and guidance to Training Mates.

19. If Master's license, 500 ton (or greater) is not currently held, endeavor to obtain such license with an Ocean Endorsement as soon as possible.

20. Successfully complete annual Coast Guard physical examination.

21. Other duties as assigned.


Requirements

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Valid Merchant Mariner Credential

2. Valid license for Mate 200 GRT on Ocean routes with Mate of Towing Vessels endorsement

3. Valid TWIC

4. Valid Passport

5. STCW II/3, VI/6

6. Radar Observer endorsement

7. ARPA certificate

8. Marine Radio Operators Permit

9. Progressive experience on outside towing vessels (i.e. other than inland waters)

10. Or as approved by the President

Key Skills
Vessel OperationCrew SupervisionDeck DutiesSafety ProceduresTow OperationsMoorageVessel MaintenanceWatch StandingNavigationDeck Machinery OperationEmergency ResponseTrainingCommand AssumptionStowageCertification Maintenance
Categories
TransportationLogisticsTradesManagement & LeadershipSecurity & Safety
Apply Now

Please let Sause Bros Inc know you found this job on InterviewPal. This helps us grow!

Apply Now
Prepare for Your Interview

We scan and aggregate real interview questions reported by candidates across thousands of companies. This role already has a tailored question set waiting for you.

Elevate your application

Generate a resume, cover letter, or prepare with our AI mock interviewer tailored to this job's requirements.