The SHIP'S SECOND MATE assists in the operation of an oceangoing vessel with primary responsibility for maintaining navigation charts, publications, and instruments.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

This is the second level of a three-level series. This class is distinguished from the lower Third Mate level by the responsibility for maintaining navigational charts and equipment. It is distinguished from the higher First Mate level by the absence of responsibility for acting in place of the Ship's Master during the Master's absence.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Watch Standing. Typical tasks: under the direction of the Ship's Master, navigates by use of electronic equipment and other means; maintains the daily navigational charts, publications, and instruments; operates and repairs the gyrocompass; maneuvers the vessel as necessary to conduct oceanographic work; writes navigational logs; conducts shipboard and ship-to-shore communications; directs seaman on watch; assists Master during special sea or anchor detail.
2. Navigation Equipment. Typical tasks: organizes and updates navigational charts and publications; maintains the cleanliness and general condition of the pilothouse, chartroom, vessel control room, and navigating equipment.
3. Other Duties. Typical tasks: operates radios, radars, electronic navigation equipment, fathometers, ship control equipment, winches, cranes, boats, and research equipment as needed; maintains the ship's medicine chest and performs first aid as necessary.

RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHERS

Employees in this class have daily contact with research scientists and students while at sea to assist in scientific research projects. All other contact is with the ship's crew. Duties are assigned and completed on board the ship.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Employees in this class receive general supervision from the Ship's Master. Work is reviewed by direct observation of watch standing. Work is also reviewed daily for quality and compliance with established standards by means of written reports and navigational logs. Work is performed under standard agency operating procedures.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Positions in this class are found on ships conducting research at sea for extended periods of time. They require the willingness to work within the environment associated with the position's location.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Possess a Mate's license, motor vessels of not more than 500 gross tons, oceans or better, issued by the U.S. Coast Guard; U. S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner's Document, endorsed Able Seaman, special or higher
• Possess a Marine Radio Operator permit issued by the Federal Communications Commission; and
• At least six months (180 8-hour or 120 12-hour days of deck service) as a Mate of a motor vessel or comparable military service
• Current STCW certificate including current Basic Safety Training and Lifeboatman certificates
• Current passport, or the ability to obtain
• Meet Coast Guard drug testing requirements
• Ability to speak, read and write English
• Current driver?s license

Revised May 2004