Bluenose II - Chief Mate
The iconic schooner Bluenose II, replica of the vessel that’s on the Canadian dime, sails out of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia and visits ports throughout Nova Scotia and North America. The vessel is regularly open to the public, offering cruises and onboard access to its many admirers.
Bluenose II is seeking applicants for the Chief Mate Position beginning on April 1, 2025.
The Chief Mate is a key officer on the ship, assisting the Master and shore management and helping to train the crew.
Successful applicants will possess a minimum of a Watchkeeping Mate license. Several years of experience on traditionally-rigged vessels or large yachts and a strong commitment to teaching under sail is preferred.
The Chief Mate’s contract runs year-round beginning April 1, 2025 and ending March 31, 2026. The operating season runs from April 1 to October 15.
BENEFITS
• Vision care
• Dental care
• Life insurance
• Company pension
EXPERIENCE
• Watchkeeping Mate (required)
• At least one year of tall ships experience (preferred)
DUTIES
• Act in command when Captain is away from the vessel
• Prepare watch schedules and crew schedules
• In charge of setting sails
• Stand bridge watches, operate and navigate the vessel safely
• Supervise the deck crew when entering or leaving port or anchorage
• Supervise boat drills, fire drills, and other emergency actions
• Supervise and assist with loading, unloading and storage of equipment and
stores
• Perform regular inspections of vessel including safety, proper storage of gear and
equipment, maintenance of watertight integrity, safety of the sailing rig
• Supervise and assist deck crew in cleaning and maintenance of the vessel and
equipment
• Assist with storage and inventory of safety, firefighting, lifesaving, and other
equipment
• Write a monthly report for the Captain as to work completed, and the status of the vessel, equipment and crew
• Comply with and uphold all regulations, company policies, and legal orders from senior officers
• This job description reflects the general duties of the job but is not a detailed description of all duties, which may be inherent to the position; the Captain may assign reasonably related additional duties
SKILLS
• Excellent organizational skills
• Ability to prioritize and to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Good written, verbal and interpersonal skills required
• Ability to interact positively and professionally with officers, crew, staff and the public
• Leadership and teaching skills
• Maintain composure in stressful situations
• High degree of professionalism
• Strong customer service skills
• Professional presentation, appearance and work ethic
• Ability to work irregular/extended hours/weeks, including night and weekend duties as required
REQUIREMENTS
• Minimum Watchkeeping Mates license
• Current Marine Medical
• MED DVS Marine Emergency Duties or STCW Basic Safety
• Experience sailing tall ships or yachts preferred
• Marine First Aid
• Radio License
• Fire Fighting
• Valid driver’s license, clean record
• Sufficient computer skills to operate shipboard and other automated systems
• Ability to enter USA and a current passport
• Smoke-free vessel and surrounding property
• Criminal Records Check and Vulnerable Sector Check
PHYSICAL /ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
• Ability to work aloft
• Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, rigging and the like, using feet and legs and/or hands and arms, body agility is emphasized
• Lifting, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, and pulling are required frequently
• Frequent underway periods requiring time away from the home for extended periods: weeks, overnight and weekends
• This work includes sailing and maintenance work in outside areas, hot and cold weather, and exposure to elements such as the ocean, rain, salt spray, dirt, fumes, and loud noises
Anyone who can legally work in Canada can apply for this job. If you are not currently authorized to work in Canada, we will not consider your application.
To apply, submit your resume and cover letter to Maggie Ostler at director@bluenose2.ca no later than Monday February 17, 2025 at 4:00pm AST. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.