Launch Your Shore-Side Maritime Career with the U.S. Coast Guard

If you are a seasoned deck officer looking to translate your sea-going expertise into a high-impact civilian career, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) has a unique opportunity for you. The National Maritime Center (NMC) is currently hiring Merchant Mariner Course Evaluators (Deck) at the GS-12 grade level. This is your chance to pivot from the bridge to a role where you help shape the safety, standards, and future of the entire U.S. maritime industry.

Job Responsibilities

As a Merchant Mariner Course Evaluator, you will serve as a technical subject matter expert. Your primary duties will include:

Curriculum Assessment: Evaluating maritime technical subject matter of training courses and programs.
Instructor Evaluation: Assessing the proficiency and competence of prospective instructors, Qualified Assessors, and Designated Examiners.
Policy Support: Providing expert recommendations to improve course approval processes based on current maritime regulations.
Communication: Preparing technical responses for Congressional inquiries and public queries regarding training and licensing standards.

Requirements

Candidates must meet the following criteria to be considered for this GS-12 level position:

Credentialing: You must hold or have held a U.S. Merchant Mariner credential (2nd Mate Any Gross Tons or higher, or Master 1600 tons or higher, or military equivalent).
Experience: At least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Assessment: Successful completion of the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.

Salary and Benefits Comparison

Feature	Details
Salary Range	$89,508 – $145,468 per year
Job Series	2101 (Transportation Specialist)
Grade	GS-12
Recruitment Incentive	10% - 21.69% for new federal hires

In addition to a competitive salary, the federal government offers a robust benefits package. This includes health insurance, a Thrift Savings Plan (with government matching), paid holidays, and opportunities for student loan repayment up to $10,000 for new permanent appointees.

Application Tips for Success

Follow the Resume Rules: Your resume must be two pages or less. Even a great candidate will be disqualified if the resume exceeds this limit or uses tiny fonts.
Be Explicit with Dates: For every position listed, ensure you include start and end dates (mm/yy) and the hours worked per week.
Address the Assessments: The USA Hire assessment is a pass/fail gateway. Take the time to practice using the resources provided on the OPM website.

Becoming a Merchant Mariner Course Evaluator is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to use your specialized knowledge to safeguard the American maritime industry. With locations across the country—from Seattle to Miami—you can find a position that fits your needs. Prepare your application carefully, highlight your deck-side experience, and take the next step in your professional journey today.

Why This Merchant Mariner Course Evaluator (Deck) Job Matters

Launch your maritime career with the U.S. Coast Guard—your expertise as a deck officer is vital to safeguarding our nation's waterways and maritime credentialing standards.

Merchant Mariner Course Evaluator (Deck) Job Overview

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is seeking experienced maritime professionals to join the National Maritime Center (NMC) as a Merchant Mariner Course Evaluator. In this pivotal role, you will evaluate maritime technical curricula and instructor qualifications, ensuring that training programs meet the high standards required for U.S. Merchant Mariner Credentialing. This position offers the unique opportunity to transition from vessel operations to a strategic role that shapes the future of maritime safety and policy.

Requirements for Merchant Mariner Course Evaluator (Deck)

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must be registered with or exempt from the Selective Service.
Must hold or have held a U.S. Merchant Mariner credential (2nd Mate AGT or higher, Master 1600 tons or higher, or military equivalent DWO 1600 GRT or higher).
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
Ability to undergo and successfully pass a suitability background investigation.
Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages.
Ability to meet the cut score on USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.

Preferred Qualifications for Merchant Mariner Course Evaluator (Deck)

Experience in shipboard operations and navigation.
Deep understanding of international and domestic maritime regulations.
Proficiency in drafting technical maritime documentation.
Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with stakeholders and government officials.
Demonstrated ability to perform detailed analysis of training curricula.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
✓Paid federal holidays and generous personal leave
✓Student loan repayment options up to $10,000
✓Recruitment or relocation incentives for qualifying candidates
✓Flexible work schedules and wellness programs

💡 How to Apply Merchant Mariner Course Evaluator (Deck) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Merchant Mariner Course Evaluator (Deck) Job

Log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a two-page resume highlighting your specific deck officer experience.
Submit your application package online before the cut-off dates.
Complete the required USA Hire Assessment within the provided testing window.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal for interview requests.

💡 General Tips

Your resume must be exactly two pages or less; longer resumes will be automatically rejected.
Use specific dates (mm/yy) and indicate hours worked per week for every job entry.
Be prepared to submit transcripts if you are basing your qualifications on education.
Thoroughly review the assessment requirements; you will be notified via email if you need to complete the USA Hire module.
Do not include personal information like your SSN or photos in your resume.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary responsibility of a Merchant Mariner Course Evaluator?

Evaluators assess maritime curricula, determine the proficiency of instructors and Qualified Assessors, and provide policy recommendations for the Mariner Credentialing Program.

Can I apply for this job if I am not a civilian?

Yes, the position is open to various hiring paths including veterans and federal employees, provided you meet the credentialing and experience requirements.

What locations are available for this position?

There are multiple locations including Juneau, Long Beach, Oakland, Miami, Honolulu, New Orleans, Boston, Baltimore, New York, Toledo, Memphis, Houston, Seattle, and Martinsburg.

Do I need a security clearance for this job?

No, this position is designated as non-sensitive (Low Risk), though a suitability background investigation is required.

Can I work remotely?

This role is not listed as eligible for telework or remote status at this time.

What if I am a veteran?

Veterans with preference documentation are encouraged to apply. Be sure to include your DD-214 Member 4 copy with your application.

Job from U.S. Coast Guard

The U.S. Coast Guard, a component of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is responsible for a vast array of missions, from maritime law enforcement and search-and-rescue to protecting our nation's ports and waterways. The National Maritime Center specifically oversees the Mariner Credentialing Program, ensuring that those operating vessels possess the necessary technical competence to do so safely and effectively.