Become a Motor Vessel Captain: Navigating Your Career with the U.S. Navy
If you have a passion for the sea and a desire to contribute to national security, a career as a Motor Vessel Captain with the Department of the Navy could be your next professional chapter. The Navy is currently seeking experienced mariners to support fleet operations across installations in the Pacific Northwest.
Job Responsibilities
As a Motor Vessel Captain, you will serve as the primary operator for yard tugboats. Your core responsibilities include:
- Navigation and Maneuvering: Expertly guiding tugs alongside naval vessels to assist in complex berthing operations.
- Operational Command: Supervising deck crews, ensuring they are trained in the operation of winches, pumps, and fire-safety systems.
- Maintenance Leadership: Overseeing the general upkeep of the vessel, including routine cleaning, painting, and systems checks.
- Communication: Effectively using radar and radio equipment to maintain situational awareness in connecting channels and open waters.
Requirements
This position requires specific maritime expertise. You must provide documentation for:
- Credentialing: Valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) as Mate of Towing Vessels-Inland or Mate of Self-Propelled Vessels under 500 GRT.
- Endorsements: Unlimited Radar Observer endorsement.
- Operational Capacity: Demonstrated ability to perform work with minimal supervision.
Salary and Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Level | WG-10 |
| Salary Range | $35.90 - $41.99/hour |
| Primary Locations | Everett, Bangor, Bremerton, WA |
| Security Clearance | Secret |
Benefits
Employees enjoy robust federal benefits, including, but not limited to, health insurance, retirement planning, and paid leave. The environment is one that prioritizes professional development.
Application Tips
- Watch the Length: Keep your resume strictly to 2 pages.
- Specify Experience: Be clear about your hours worked and specific vessels handled.
- Formatting: Use the announcement number DE-12894206-26-KO precisely in your subject line.
Serving as a Motor Vessel Captain for the Navy is a rewarding way to apply your maritime credentials to a mission that matters. With multiple locations available in Washington, now is the time to prepare your application for upcoming vacancies.
Why This Motor Vessel Captain Job Matters
Take command of the fleet: Join the Department of the Navy as a Motor Vessel Captain and steer maritime operations at key installations in the Pacific Northwest.
Motor Vessel Captain Job Overview
The Department of the Navy is currently identifying qualified professionals for anticipated Motor Vessel Captain vacancies. This role is central to maritime support operations, involving the piloting, maintenance, and deck management of tugboats at installations in Everett, Bangor, and Bremerton, Washington. As a WG-10 level position, this role is designed for experienced mariners who excel in operational leadership and vessel safety.
Requirements for Motor Vessel Captain
- U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Mate of Towing Vessels-Inland with Unlimited Radar Observer.
- OR a Merchant Mariner Credential endorsed as Mate of Self-Propelled vessels of less than 500 Gross Register Tons (GRT) upon Inland waters with Unlimited Radar Observer.
- Ability to perform tug make-up, line handling, towing, docking, undocking, anchoring, and mooring.
- Experience navigating and maneuvering large yard tugboats alongside vessels.
- Proficiency in operating radar and radio equipment.
- Demonstrated ability to perform work without more than normal supervision.
Preferred Qualifications for Motor Vessel Captain
- Proven experience in supervising deck crew operations, maintenance, and safety compliance.
- Experience in maintaining vessel upkeep, including painting and cleaning to keep the ship in top condition.
- Strong communication skills for instructing crew on safety and emergency equipment operation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay rates.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package.
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities.
- ✓Eligibility for shift differentials and overtime as required by mission needs.
💡 How to Apply Motor Vessel Captain Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Motor Vessel Captain Job
- Prepare a resume restricted to a maximum of 2 pages.
- Include full employer details, dates of service, and relevant pay grades in your resume.
- Email your application package to the designated contact emails provided in the announcement.
- Include the announcement number DE-12894206-26-KO in the email subject line.
- Submit all required credentialing documents, such as your MMC and USCG documentation.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the screen-out element regarding your ability to work without more than normal supervision.
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all federal formatting requirements are met.
- Verify that your Merchant Mariner Credential is current and clearly documented in your package.
- Double-check that your email subject line matches the required announcement number exactly to prevent disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a guaranteed job opening?
This is a public notice flyer for anticipated vacancies. Actual openings may vary, and not all applicants will be contacted.
What specific credentials are required for this role?
You must possess a valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) as either a Mate of Towing Vessels-Inland or a Mate of Self-Propelled vessels (under 500 GRT) upon inland waters, both with Unlimited Radar Observer endorsement.
Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command
The Department of the Navy offers a unique working environment where civilian talents integrate with military mission requirements. Working for the Navy means joining a team dedicated to safeguarding freedoms while providing competitive compensation and professional stability.