35m Sportfishing – Mate

Seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Mate to join the team onboard a 35m newbuild sportfish. The position requires a proactive, hands-on Mate with extensive game fishing and navigation experience, capable of maintaining the vessel’s high operational standards.
The successful candidate will join the build ahead of the vessel’s launch 2027. The vessel will have a fulltime crew of 6.

Start Date: Within 2/3 months
Location: New Zealand, Worldwide itinerary.
Employment Type: Permanent/Rotation: 2 months on / 2 months off  (Paid salary during 2 months off).

Key Responsibilities:
• Lead fishing operations – including full technical experience with dredges and teaser reels, outriggers, rigging baits, tackle preparation and maintenance, essential fishing knots, experience in both light and heavy tackle operations, boat-side fish control – confident wire/leader control, safe and effective gaff technique, catch processing and handling.
• Perform navigational watches and managing bridge operations to the highest safety standard.
• Coordinate with the Captain, interior and galley departments for smooth onboard operations and willing to assist in all other departments.
• Day-to-day deck operations including docking, anchoring, mooring, tender handling, and general deck maintenance. Washdown and vessel detailing.
• Maintain vessel documentation, safety management systems, including flag and class inspection readiness.
• Oversee safety drills and maintenance planning.
• Vessel setup during construction to ensure that all systems, deck equipment and fishing components meet operational requirements.
• Support warranty, yard, and refit planning.
• Assist in mentoring, and development of crew from other vessels with an interest in learning fishing techniques.
Required Qualifications & Experience
• Yachtmaster 200 Offshore or equivalent (or ability to obtain before June 2027).
• ENG1 (or equivalent Seafarer’s Medical Certificate).
• STCW Basic Safety Training. (or ability to obtain before June 2027).
• STCW Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD), (or ability to obtain before June 2027).
• Minimum five years proven experience as a Mate on globally operated game-fishing vessels in either private or charter operations.
• Strong understanding of navigation, compliance, and shipboard operations.
• Excellent communication, and leadership skills.
• Computer skills, proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel
• Proficient in understanding SMS, ISM protocols and SOP protocols.

Nice to Have/Preferred:
• Understanding of fiberglass, gelcoat & 2-part paint systems.
• Yard, warranty, or refit experience preferred.
• Dive certificate with possibility of gaining divemaster level.
• Furuno Omni sounder operation experience.
• Experience with IDEA and Pinpoint software is beneficial.
• STCW Advanced Fire Fighting.
• Engineering experience.

Attributes:
• Calm, organised, and pragmatic under pressure, with a focus on vessel safety systems and teamwork.
• Positive, collaborative leadership style.
• Detail-oriented, proactive, and adaptable to change.
• Adaptable, and solutions-focused approach under pressure.
What’s on Offer
• Permanent rotational role onboard a globally operating game fishing vessel.
• Stable position within a professional, well-managed fleet.
• Opportunity to work in a collaborative environment.
• Comprehensive medical insurance.
• Long-term career development opportunities.