Embark on a Career as a Marine Transportation Specialist
The Great Lakes Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation, an operating administration within the U.S. Department of Transportation, offers a rare opportunity for maritime professionals to impact the safety and efficiency of one of the world's most critical shipping channels. As a Marine Transportation Specialist (Ship Inspector), you are at the forefront of ensuring vessel integrity and regulatory compliance.
Job Responsibilities
You will serve as the agency's marine expert, responsible for:
- Conducting onboard inspections of foreign-flagged vessels.
- Investigating groundings, spills, and equipment failures.
- Collaborating with the Canadian Seaway and U.S. Coast Guard.
- Providing technical advice at industry meetings.
Comparison of Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Resume Limit | Maximum 2 pages |
| Travel | Frequent, including to Canada |
| Schedule | 10-month navigation season, on-call |
Salary Overview
The compensation for this position ranges from $89,508 to $138,370 per year, depending on qualifications and grade level (GS-12 to GS-13).
If you have a passion for maritime safety and the experience to back it up, this role offers a rewarding career path in the public sector. Apply today to contribute to national infrastructure excellence.
Why This Marine Transportation Specialist (Ship Inspector) (Open To Both U.S. Citizens And Federal Employees) Job Matters
Launch a mission-critical career in maritime safety as a Ship Inspector with the Great Lakes Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation, ensuring the integrity of one of the world's most vital waterways.
Marine Transportation Specialist (Ship Inspector) (Open To Both U.S. Citizens And Federal Employees) Job Overview
The Great Lakes Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (GLS) is seeking a dedicated Marine Transportation Specialist (Ship Inspector) to serve as a key technical expert within the Office of Lock Operations. Based in Massena, New York, the selected candidate will play a pivotal role in maintaining the safety and regulatory compliance of international vessels navigating the Seaway. This position involves investigating marine incidents, verifying engineering standards, and liaising with global maritime agencies. It is a unique opportunity for a seasoned marine professional to influence safety protocols and infrastructure protection in a high-impact federal environment.
Requirements for Marine Transportation Specialist (Ship Inspector) (Open To Both U.S. Citizens And Federal Employees)
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must meet specialized experience requirements for the GS-12 or GS-13 grade levels.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period.
- Submission of a resume limited to two pages.
- Registration for Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959).
- Adherence to time-in-grade requirements for current federal employees.
- Must be available for on-call duties during the 10-month navigation season.
Preferred Qualifications for Marine Transportation Specialist (Ship Inspector) (Open To Both U.S. Citizens And Federal Employees)
- Experience as a marine surveyor, inspector, or auditor in public or private sectors.
- Background as a senior shipboard captain, deck officer, or marine engineer.
- Demonstrated ability to conduct complex marine incident and accident investigations.
- Technical proficiency in reviewing ship structures, control systems, and machinery compliance.
- Proven experience in inter-agency collaboration with national coast guards and international maritime authorities.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
- ✓Retirement planning programs.
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave.
- ✓Professional development opportunities.
- ✓Work-life balance initiatives within the Department of Transportation.
💡 How to Apply Marine Transportation Specialist (Ship Inspector) (Open To Both U.S. Citizens And Federal Employees) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Marine Transportation Specialist (Ship Inspector) (Open To Both U.S. Citizens And Federal Employees) Job
- Register and log in to your account at USAJobs.gov.
- Review the full vacancy announcement and prepare your documents.
- Draft a concise, maximum two-page resume highlighting specialized experience.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents, such as SF-50s or DD214s.
- Submit the final application package before the 11:59 PM EST deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit, as additional pages will not be reviewed.
- Clearly state employment dates, job titles, and hours worked per week for each role.
- If you are a federal employee, include your series and grade level on your resume.
- Verify that all documents are uploaded correctly within the system before final submission.
- Focus your responses on the specific KSAs mentioned in the vacancy announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of the Ship Inspector role?
The role involves ensuring vessel compliance with Seaway regulations, conducting ship inspections, investigating marine accidents, and acting as a technical liaison with domestic and international maritime organizations.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, the position involves frequent travel to Canada and other areas to facilitate inspections and industry meetings during the 10-month navigation season.
Job from Great Lakes Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation
The Department of Transportation (DOT) is dedicated to modernizing infrastructure and prioritizing safety. Joining the GLS team means contributing to a "Golden Age of Transportation" where your expertise directly supports the flow of goods that sustain the American economy.