First Mate – SSV Makani Olu
Organization: Marimed Foundation, Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii
Vessel: SSV Makani Olu – 96’ Three-Masted Schooner
Position: First Mate
Type: Full-Time
Location: Hawaii (Voyage-based and shoreside duties)
Not a live aboard position. (Not allowed in Kaneohe Bay)
Position Summary
Marimed Foundation is seeking a First Mate to take on a leadership and training-focused role aboard our 96’ three-masted schooner, SSV Makani Olu, a U.S. Coast Guard–inspected Sailing School Vessel. The First Mate is responsible for the instruction and training of all crew, leads the ship in the absence of the Captain, and ensures rigorous adherence to safety, operational, and maintenance protocols.
This position is pivotal to the success of our maritime training programs, fostering a culture of safety, discipline, and learning for crew, cadets, and sail trainees.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
Acts as Training Officer, leading curriculum development and delivery for both cadets and crew.
Ensures proper execution of duties per the Operations and Procedures Manual and Captain’s Standing Orders.
Develops and oversees onboard training and maintenance programs.
Supervises and instructs ship’s crew, cadets, and sail trainees in rigging, vessel operation, maintenance, and safety.
Schedules watch rotations and duty rosters, maintaining up-to-date station bills and ensuring understanding of responsibilities.
Commands the ship during the Captain’s absence and coordinates with Second Mate and other crew in voyage and deck operations.
Performs and delegates ship maintenance including sail repair, rigging inspections, and routine vessel upkeep.
Collaborates closely with the Captain, Second Mate, Deckhands
Upholds Marimed Foundation policies, USCG regulations, and safety standards.
Performs additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Relationships and Supervision
Reports directly to the Captain.
In the Captain’s absence, reports to the President & CEO.
Collaborates with various shipboard and program staff to ensure integrated operational support.
Minimum Qualifications and Requirements
Education and Experience:
High school diploma or GED required.
Minimum of two years of experience in a watch-standing capacity on sailing vessels.
Experience in traditional vessel maintenance, including marlinspike seamanship, sail repair, rigging, and protective surface work.
Strong organizational and leadership skills.
Basic computer skills, including word processing.
Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:
Sensitivity and awareness of local cultures are highly valued.
Proven team player with the ability to collaborate across disciplines and build respectful partnerships with youth and families.
Capacity to grow professionally and adapt to the dynamic demands of the role.
Certifications and Licenses:
Required:
o CPR and First Aid
o U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Officer License as Mate or Master, Near Coastal (All Oceans preferred), with auxiliary sail endorsement for motor vessels 100+ gross tons
o FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit
Pre-Employment and Screening Requirements
Three professional reference checks
TB Clearance
Negative Drug Test (pre-employment and random)
Sex Offender Registry Screening
Criminal Background Check
Required Training (Post-Hire)
New Employee Orientation
CPR and First Aid (if not current)
Water Safety
Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) training
Driver Safety (as applicable)
Essential Physical and Functional Requirements
Fluent communication in spoken and written English
Ability to write legibly and clearly
Frequently lift objects up to 110 pounds
Pull own body weight up 2 feet using arms only
Prolonged standing, deck work, and climbing rigging up to 110 feet
Ability to walk in squatting or bent positions for short distances
Stay awake and alert for full duty periods
Participate in physical restraint procedures for adolescents (post-training)
Swim confidently in open water
Maintain regular and punctual attendance
Why Join Us?
At Marimed Foundation, we’re more than a crew — we’re a mission-driven team empowering youth through hands-on maritime training. The First Mate plays a key role in guiding young lives and setting the tone for our shipboard culture.
If you are interested in making a difference is people’s lives while sailing, please send us your resume, MMC, TWIC, and three references.