Advance Your Career: Security Specialist (Port/Recovery) with the U.S. Coast Guard

Are you ready to protect the nation's critical infrastructure? The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is currently accepting applications for a Security Specialist (Port/Recovery) at the Marine Safety Unit in Houma, Louisiana. This position offers a unique opportunity to apply your expertise in maritime preparedness and salvage operations within the Department of Homeland Security.

Job Responsibilities

As a Security Specialist, you will be the go-to expert for port recovery and maritime security. Key responsibilities include:

Developing and testing Area Maritime Security (AMS) and Marine Transportation System (MTS) Recovery plans.
Maintaining detailed databases regarding marine salvage response capabilities.
Serving as a Subject Matter Expert for recovery teams and assist groups.
Providing technical support for incident management in the Captain of the Port zones.

Comparison: Standard vs. Specialized Experience

Feature	Requirements
Grade Level	GS-12
Experience Requirement	1 year at GS-11 equivalent
Education	Not required (but transcripts requested)
Security Clearance	Secret Required

Requirements

To be considered for this role, candidates must meet specific criteria:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.
Documentation: You must provide all necessary SF-50 forms and transcripts by the application closing date.
Resume Standards: Resumes must be no longer than two pages and written in at least 10pt font with 0.5-inch margins.

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary range of $89,508 to $116,362 annually. Beyond the salary, employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package:

Comprehensive health and wellness plans.
Generous retirement contributions via the Thrift Savings Plan.
Opportunities for remote work and telework.
Tuition reimbursement and career development programs.

Application Tips

Format Carefully: The system automatically rejects resumes exceeding two pages.
Avoid Personal Info: Remove SSNs, dates of birth, and photos.
Detail Your Work: Use clear dates (mm/yy) and list weekly hours for all relevant roles.
Check Status: Use the application portal regularly to monitor your status and check for assessment invitations.

This role is an ideal step for those who possess a background in maritime operations and desire a high-impact position within the Department of Homeland Security. With applications closing on August 9, 2026, interested individuals are encouraged to prepare their documentation and apply as soon as possible.

Why This Security Spec (Port/Recovery) Job Matters

Protect our nation's maritime interests as a Security Specialist with the U.S. Coast Guard in Houma, Louisiana.

Security Spec (Port/Recovery) Job Overview

The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a dedicated Security Specialist (Port/Recovery) to join the Marine Safety Unit in Houma, LA. This GS-12 position plays a critical role in maritime security preparedness and recovery, focusing on marine salvage operations and ensuring the resilience of the Marine Transportation System. You will serve as a subject matter expert, providing essential support for Area Maritime Security plans.

Requirements for Security Spec (Port/Recovery)

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must be registered with or exempt from Selective Service.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Must possess or be able to obtain a valid state driver's license.
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level.
Must meet Time-in-Grade requirements by the closing date.
Subject to a successful background investigation.

Preferred Qualifications for Security Spec (Port/Recovery)

Demonstrated expertise in Maritime Security preparedness planning.
Technical experience with Area Maritime Security (AMS) Plans and procedures.
Subspecialty knowledge in Marine Transportation System (MTS) recovery.
Practical experience in marine salvage and the removal of obstructions to navigation.
Experience as a subject matter expert for MTS Recovery Units or similar support activities.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Health, dental, vision, life, and long-term care insurance.
✓Comprehensive retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
✓Flexible Spending Accounts and Employee Assistance Programs.
✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave.
✓Flexible work schedules and telework eligibility.
✓Opportunities for professional development and tuition reimbursement.
✓Commuter subsidies and access to fitness centers.

💡 How to Apply Security Spec (Port/Recovery) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Security Spec (Port/Recovery) Job

Create or log in to your account at the official federal jobs portal.
Review the specific resume guidelines, noting the two-page limit.
Upload all required documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
Complete the required online assessments if notified via email.
Submit your application before the deadline of August 9, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit; longer resumes will be automatically rejected.
Do not include personal identifiers like your SSN or photos in your resume.
Clearly label your experience with start and end dates (mm/yy) and average hours per week.
Ensure all transcripts and certificates are legible to avoid disqualification.
Submit your application early to account for potential technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this role?

The Security Specialist focuses on maritime security preparedness, specifically regarding the recovery of the Marine Transportation System and marine salvage operations.

Is telework available for this position?

Yes, this position is designated as telework-eligible, subject to agency policy and mission requirements.

Can I submit my application via email?

No, all applications must be submitted through the official online system. Email is for inquiries only.

Is education mandatory?

*A: There is no positive education requirement, but transcripts should be submitted if you are using education to qualify for the position.*

What is the security clearance level?

*A: This role requires a Secret clearance.*

Job from U.S. Coast Guard

The U.S. Coast Guard, a vital component of the Department of Homeland Security, is responsible for safeguarding our nation’s maritime interests. From ports to the open sea, the Coast Guard ensures the safety, security, and stewardship of our waters. Joining the USCG civilian workforce means becoming a key player in a mission that supports global security, disaster resilience, and law enforcement.