Associate

About the job

Maritime Welfare Associate (MWA)

Seafarers Ministry of the Golden Gate at the International Maritime Center

(SMGG-at-the-IMC)

DATE: September 2026

ABOUT THE POSITION

The Maritime Welfare Associate (MWA) is a key member of SMGG-at-the-IMC’s frontline welfare team, serving international seafarers with professionalism, hospitality, and care. The MWA provides essential support as a Ship Visitor, Welcome Host, and Driver, ensuring that every seafarer whether on ship or at the  is greeted with respect, assistance, and a safe, welcoming environment.

In addition to direct welfare services, the MWA plays an important role in maintaining the facility’s readiness and safety. The MWA conducts weekly facility inspections, coordinates maintenance and repair activities, and performs minor custodial tasks as needed. The MWA works independently and may be assigned additional responsibilities by the Executive Director.

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 MWA should speak fluent English; fluency in other languages [especially Tagalog and Hindi] is very helpful]

COMPENSATION, SCHEDULE & EMPLOYMENT STATUS: 

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

• Part-time employee of Seafarers Ministry of the Golden Gate; the position does not include benefits

·        The MWA works a fixed part-time schedule, in-person [4 hrs Mon, Wed, 2 hrs, Friday; or 4 hours Tuesday and /Thursday, 2 hours Friday] determined one month in advance through mutual agreement with the Executive Director.

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.

• Perform weekly facility inspections and coordinate maintenance, custodial, and repair activities.

• Carry out minor custodial tasks to support facility upkeep.

Work independently and complete additional tasks assigned by the Executive Director.

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

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 and basic conversational phrases in multiple languages.

• Practical Problem-Solving: Being ready to assist with practical needs—like local transport, Wi-Fi connectivity, purchasing essentials, or liaising with unions and medical staff.