Become a Planner/Estimator with the U.S. Coast Guard in Alameda
Are you a detail-oriented professional with a background in industrial maintenance or trade operations? The U.S. Coast Guard is offering a career-defining opportunity for a Planner/Estimator to join the Surface Force Logistics Center in Alameda, California. This role is essential to our ability to maintain the vessels and facilities that protect our nation’s waterways and ports. If you have the drive to turn technical requirements into concrete success, this is your chance to make a tangible impact.
Job Responsibilities
As a Planner/Estimator, your daily tasks will involve more than just documentation; you will be the primary liaison between technical requirements and field implementation. Key responsibilities include:
- Project Planning: Determining necessary materials, shop personnel, and equipment for maintenance and repair tasks.
- Analysis: Interpreting blueprints, design plans, and engineering specifications to develop accurate work lists.
- Scheduling: Utilizing software like MS Project or Primavera to create and monitor production schedules.
- Estimation: Developing labor and material estimates based on historical data and engineered standards.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Clearance: Must be able to obtain and maintain a Public Trust security clearance.
- Resume: Strictly limited to a maximum of two pages with standard formatting (10pt font, 0.5-inch margins).
- Standards: Proficiency in the job elements listed, including the ability to interpret technical instructions and manage tools effectively.
Candidate Comparison
| Feature | Competitive Candidate | Non-Competitive Candidate |
|---|---|---|
| Resume Length | 2 pages maximum | Exceeds 2 pages |
| Scheduling Software | Proficient (MS Project) | No experience listed |
| Blueprint Skills | Advanced | Basic/None |
| Documentation | Organized and Legible | Illegible/Incomplete |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly wage range of $47.28 to $55.17, commensurate with experience and performance standards.
Benefits
Employees of the DHS enjoy a robust benefits package designed to support both professional and personal well-being, including:
- Health, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.
- Comprehensive retirement options, including the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Access to fitness centers and wellness programs.
- Tuition reimbursement and ongoing developmental training.
Application Tips
- Focus on the Questionnaire: The evaluation is heavily based on your self-assessment. Be honest and ensure your resume contains concrete examples of the skills you claim.
- Formatting Matters: The system will automatically reject resumes over two pages or those with tiny margins. Stick to the constraints provided.
- Detail Your Work: When describing past experience, clearly state the number of hours worked per week and the specific dates (mm/yy).
Serving as a Planner/Estimator for the U.S. Coast Guard in Alameda provides not only a stable and well-compensated career path but the immense satisfaction of knowing your work keeps our maritime forces safe and efficient. Prepare your application carefully and join the team that secures America's coasts.
Why This Planner/ Estimator Job Matters
Launch your career with the U.S. Coast Guard in Alameda—help power the mission that secures our nation's maritime interests.
Planner/ Estimator Job Overview
The U.S. Coast Guard, part of the Department of Homeland Security, is seeking a skilled Planner/Estimator to support the Industrial Operations Division of the Surface Force Logistics Center in Alameda, California. In this role, you will be the backbone of maintenance and repair projects, ensuring the U.S. Coast Guard fleet is ready for action. You will translate complex engineering designs, blueprints, and material lists into actionable work schedules and man-hour estimates, playing a vital role in our nation's maritime security.
Requirements for Planner/ Estimator
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be registered for or exempt from the Selective Service.
- Must pass a background investigation for a Public Trust clearance.
- Submit a resume no longer than two pages.
- Must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date.
Preferred Qualifications for Planner/ Estimator
- Experience reading and interpreting blueprints, design plans, and technical specifications.
- Proficiency in modern project scheduling software such as MS Project or Primavera.
- Technical knowledge of industrial trade practices and material requirements.
- Proven ability to create man-hour estimates based on historical data and engineered standards.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Federal retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous personal leave
- ✓Flexible work schedules and wellness programs
- ✓Professional training and career development opportunities
- ✓Potential for tuition reimbursement
💡 How to Apply Planner/ Estimator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Planner/ Estimator Job
- Create or update your account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, using at least 10pt font and 0.5-inch margins.
- Review the self-assessment questionnaire to ensure your resume highlights the required knowledge areas.
- Submit your resume, transcripts (if applicable), and any required eligibility documents (SF-50, DD-214) online.
- Track your application status via the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes the number of hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Do not include personal information like your SSN, date of birth, or photos on your resume.
- Double-check that your documents are legible; unreadable files may lead to automatic disqualification.
- Focus your resume on demonstrating your experience with the specific job elements listed in the announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the education requirement for this position?
There is no positive education requirement for this role, though any relevant education or transcripts should be included in your application package for consideration.
Can I submit my application via email?
No, all applications and supporting documents must be submitted online through the USAJOBS platform. Email and mail submissions are not accepted.
What is the primary duty of this role?
*A: The Planner/Estimator determines the labor, material, and facility requirements for Coast Guard asset maintenance projects and maintains production schedules.*
Is relocation assistance offered?
*A: No, relocation benefits are not available for this position.*
Job from U.S. Coast Guard
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Coast Guard work around the clock to safeguard maritime interests. As an employee of the Surface Force Logistics Center, you will be part of a mission-critical team dedicated to industrial operations that keep our assets mission-ready at all times.
