To operate the forward end of the boat and to facilitate docking and loading procedures, the boat was manned by Deckhands, Deck-Watches (Obsolete), Watchmen, Wheelsmen, Mates, and the Captain. In its later years of operation, the William G. Mather was manned by the following:

• 3 Deckhands (ordinary seamen)
• 1 Bosun (called an AB Maintenance Man in the Cleveland-Cliffs fleet)
• 3 Watchmen (Able-Bodied Seamen - "ABS")
• 3 Wheelsmen (ABS)
• First, Second, and Third Mates
• Captain (Master)
  Note: Because of the frequent carrying of guests and no room aft, the Mather's two Porters bunked forward. Usually all Porters bunked aft since they were in the Galley Department.