Date: September 2026

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COMPENSATION & EMPLOYMENT STATUS

• The MWA works a fixed part-time in-person, schedule, at least three days per week.

• $1,000/month Up to 40 hours per month at $25/hour, paid monthly

• Position is a part-time employee of Seafarers Ministry of the Golden Gate; the position does not include benefits

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ABOUT THE POSITION

The Maritime Ministry Associate (MMA) provides spiritual, emotional, and practical support to international seafarers, port workers, and their families.  Working alongside the Maritime Welfare Associate and the Executive Director,  the MMA assists with ship visits, pastoral care, crisis response, worship services, and outreach programs.

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The Maritime Ministry Associate (MWA) is a key member of SMGG-at-the-IMC’s frontline welfare team, serving international seafarers with professionalism, hospitality, and care. The MMA provides essential support as a Ship Visitor, Welcome Host, and Driver, ensuring that every seafarer whether on ship or at the Maritime Center is greeted with respect, assistance, and a safe, welcoming presence.  This position is ideal for individuals who value service, enjoy working with diverse international communities, and thrive in a role that blends hospitality, outreach, and operational support.  The MWA must be warm and friendly; enjoy meeting people, and above all, be a good listener.  Skill or experience in mentoring, advising, coaching, or counseling is valuable.

 

The MMA plays an important role in developing and supporting SMGG-at-the-IMC’s volunteer team. The MMA builds relationships with individuals from diverse cultural and faith backgrounds, helps coordinate volunteer activities and ministry resources, and advocates for the well-being of maritime personnel and the broader community. The MMA conducts monthly volunteer orientations and community outreach activities. The MMA works independently and may be assigned additional responsibilities by the Executive Director. 

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The MWA should speak fluent English; fluency in other languages [especially Tagalog and Hindi] is very helpful]. This position requires strong interpersonal skills, compassion, cultural sensitivity, and a  commitment to serving the maritime community.

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KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct ship visits to provide welfare support, transportation, and connection to center services.

• Serve as Welcome Host at the Maritime Center, greeting seafarers and visitors, offering hospitality, and ensuring a positive experience.

• Provide transportation for seafarers as needed.

• Conduct a monthly orientation for volunteers who have registered and completed training requirements

• Conduct a monthly Community Connection event for interested individuals and community groups

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KEY QUALIFICATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Background Checks:  Be eligible to obtain a TWIC card . Before applying, please review the requirements here:  https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic1; have valid CA drivers’ license with clean driving record

• Welfare Training: Completion of certified ship welfare visitor courses (provided online by SMGG prior to hiring)  

• Maritime-Multicultural Experience: Some familiarity or experience in maritime affairs is helpful. Should have interest or experience in human rights, environmental issues,  and/or  advocacy. Prior exposure or background in cross-cultural communication or international travel, given the diverse nationalities of modern ship crews.

• Physical Agility: Posses the physical capability and courage to navigate active industrial ports, climb steep and unsteady gangways, Able to lift up to 75 pounds

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ESSENTIAL CHARACTERISTICS AND SOFT SKILLS

• Active Listening: Prioritizing listening over talking to understand the deep isolation, fatigue, or stress experienced by crew members.

• Cultural Sensitivity: Respecting different nationalities, backgrounds, and religious traditions without imposing personal, cultural, or moral views

• Openness and Empathy: Approaching crew quarters with a warm, non-judgmental attitude.

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HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit a brief letter of interest and résumé to the Executive Director at chaplain@smgg.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

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