Become a Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist with the U.S. Coast Guard
The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is looking for highly skilled maritime professionals to join the National Maritime Center (NMC) as a Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine). This is a unique opportunity for engineers to transition their shipboard experience into a key policy and oversight role. If you are passionate about maritime safety and want to help set the standard for the next generation of mariners, this position is for you.
Job Responsibilities
As a Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist, your core duties will include:
- Content Development: Crafting technical assessment modules for engineering credentials.
- Regulatory Oversight: Ensuring that exams align with the latest Code of Federal Regulations.
- Industry Consultation: Providing guidance to maritime training institutions and program staff.
- Quality Assurance: Regularly auditing exam questions to maintain relevance to current shipboard technology.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-12 position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Certification: Hold or have held a U.S. Merchant Mariner credential of Second Assistant Engineer, Unlimited, or higher.
- Education: A bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as engineering, business, or maritime science.
- Experience: One full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level, demonstrating technical expertise in engineering systems.
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this role is $89,508 – $145,468 per year. Beyond the base pay, the Coast Guard offers an impressive benefits package:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Retirement | Thrift Savings Plan (401k match) |
| Insurance | Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision |
| Bonuses | Recruitment/Relocation Incentives (10%-21.69%) |
| Loan Forgiveness | Student loan repayment options available |
Application Tips
- Mind the Resume Length: Your resume must be two pages or less. Do not exceed this limit.
- Be Specific: Detail your experience with maritime laws and shipboard engineering systems.
- Assessments: Be prepared to complete the USA Hire assessments once notified.
Serving as a Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist allows you to leverage your sea-going experience to impact the broader maritime industry. Apply today to contribute to the mission of the U.S. Coast Guard.
Why This Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine) Job Matters
Transform your maritime engineering expertise into a mission-critical role securing our nation’s waterways as a Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist with the U.S. Coast Guard.
Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine) Job Overview
The National Maritime Center (NMC) is seeking an experienced maritime professional to serve as a Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine). This GS-12 position is vital to the U.S. Coast Guard’s mission, focusing on the development, maintenance, and quality assurance of technical assessment content for engineering credentials. This role provides an opportunity to influence maritime standards, provide expert guidance to the industry, and uphold the safety and regulatory compliance of our merchant mariner workforce.
Requirements for Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine)
- 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 as a Second Assistant Engineer, Unlimited or higher, or equivalent military experience as an Assistant/Chief Engineer on vessels >4000 HP.
- One full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
- Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant field (e.g., engineering, business, maritime transportation).
- Must pass a pre-employment drug test and a background investigation.
- Ability to submit transcripts demonstrating relevant education.
Preferred Qualifications for Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine)
- Advanced technical knowledge of shipboard engineering systems and maintenance management.
- Strong communication skills for drafting technical reports and policy correspondence.
- Experience working with international and domestic maritime regulatory bodies.
- Demonstrated ability to develop standardized training or assessment modules.
- Proficiency in translating complex engineering concepts into clear, actionable assessment questions.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave
- ✓Flexible work schedules
- ✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development
- ✓Student loan repayment assistance (up to $10,000)
- ✓Recruitment/Relocation incentives (10% - 21.69%) for qualifying candidates
💡 How to Apply Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine) Job
- Create a profile on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the application portal.
- Upload required documents: transcripts, DD-214 (if applicable), and professional certifications.
- Submit your application before the cut-off date (August 28, September 28, or October 28, 2026).
- Complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments if notified.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; submissions exceeding this will not be considered.
- Do not include personal information like your SSN, date of birth, or photos on your resume.
- Highlight specific maritime engineering systems you have managed in your work history.
- Double-check your transcripts to ensure all course numbers and grades are legible.
- Use the USA Hire practice resources to prepare for the assessment portion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
The location is negotiable after selection, but this is not classified as a fully remote role. Candidates should be prepared for potential duty station assignments in major maritime hubs.
Can I use education to substitute for the engineering experience?
No, for this specific GS-12 level position, the specialized experience requirement is mandatory and cannot be fully replaced by education alone.
What happens if I forget to attach my transcripts?
Failure to provide legible transcripts for required education by the closing date will lead to disqualification.
Job from U.S. Coast Guard
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Coast Guard serve to protect American interests through maritime safety, security, and stewardship. The NMC specifically handles the credentialing of mariners, ensuring that those operating in U.S. waters meet rigorous international and domestic standards.