Jobs in Alaska 2026 (Now Hiring) - Smart Auto Apply

The mate is a USCG licensed officer who serves as the backup to the vessel captain. Mate's must be able to supervise and direct all aspects of longline fishing operations including deck operations, handling of gear, etc.

Working in the Bering Sea:

Working at sea is physically and mentally challenging and requires long hours in remote locations, often several days’ travel from the nearest port. Our deck and processing crews work 16-hour shifts, 7 days a week. Most trips average 4-5 weeks in duration, but depending on the fishing season, catch rates, weather, vessel size and other factors, trips can be as short as 10-12 days or as long as 60+ days. Crew members generally work multiple trips (2 months or longer) in a single rotation.

Compensation, Travel & Expenses:

Payroll is crew share percentage. Crew share calculations are based on the net adjusted sales. Net sales are calculated by accounting for certain operating costs such as bait, fuel, observer expenses, etc. 40% of net sales go to the officers and crew. 

All travel for officers is arranged and paid for by the company, including flights, hotels, and meals while traveling. 

Requirements

· USCG Licensing required: 500 GT near coastal uninspected fishing vessel Mate's license (or greater).

· Ability to act as backup to vessel captain,

· Familiarity with all aspects of longline fishing required.

· Drill Instructor certification required.

· HACCP certification required.

· Administering of required random and post-accident drug screenings – specimen collector certification required.

· Ability to supervise deck operations, handling of gear, etc.

· Ability to maintain accurate records of fishing operations, offload documentation, personnel files, etc.

· Must pass pre-employment drug screening (commercial fishing falls under federal authority; we cannot hire anyone who tests positive for THC).

· Pre-employment background check required (past convictions will not necessarily prevent employment).

· Must be legally authorized to work in the United States. BWS participates in eVerify.

Benefits

Vessel officers are eligible for healthcare benefits, subsidized by the company at 75% for both employees and dependents, including medical coverage, dental coverage, vision coverage, voluntary life insurance, and a Health Savings Account (HSA) with a discretionary company contribution. Vessel officers are eligible to enroll on the first day of the month after a one-month waiting period.