Become a Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist with the U.S. Coast Guard

If you have a background in deck operations and a passion for maritime regulatory policy, a career as a Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Deck) offers a unique opportunity to influence the safety and standards of the U.S. maritime industry. Based within the U.S. Coast Guard's National Maritime Center (NMC), this position is designed for experts who understand the complexities of vessel navigation, safety protocols, and examination development.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will oversee the full lifecycle of merchant mariner deck examination content. Your daily tasks will include:

Content Development: Researching legal and technical sources to keep examinations aligned with modern vessel technology.
Psychometric Analysis: Leading item analysis programs to identify and refine test items.
Policy Authority: Responding to complex inquiries regarding credentialing and examinations.
Mentorship: Providing guidance and training to other staff members to ensure nationwide consistency.

Comparison: Experience vs. Education

Feature	Requirement Status
Specialized Experience	Required (GS-12 equivalent)
Positive Education	Required (Degree in relevant field)
Substitution	Not allowed at GS-13 grade
Background Check	Public Trust Required

Requirements

To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet the education and experience requirements outlined by the OPM for the GS-13 level. You must submit all transcripts as proof of education. Furthermore, applicants must pass a public trust background investigation to ensure the safety and reliability of the program.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive federal salary ranging from $106,437 to $172,980 per year. Locality pay and potential recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates further enhance this compensation package.

Benefits

Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision coverage
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
Generous Paid Time Off and Federal Holidays
Tuition Reimbursement and Student Loan Repayment
Fitness and wellness programs

Application Tips

Respect the Page Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. This is non-negotiable.
Highlight Technical Skills: Ensure your resume clearly details your experience in deck operations and technical program management.
Submit Early: With multiple cut-off dates, applying earlier increases your chances of being reviewed promptly.

This role is ideal for those looking to transition from field operations into a leadership and policy-making position. If you are prepared to contribute your maritime expertise to the U.S. Coast Guard, apply before the final closing date of November 11, 2026.

Why This Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Deck) Job Matters

Shape the future of maritime safety with the U.S. Coast Guard as a Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist.

Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Deck) Job Overview

The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a high-level expert for the Merchant Mariner Examination Branch. In this pivotal role, you will lead efforts to develop, manage, and modernize competency-based examinations for merchant mariners, ensuring the highest standards of safety and technical proficiency across the nation's maritime industry.

Requirements for Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Deck)

U.S. Citizenship
Registration or exemption from Selective Service
Undergraduate or Graduate degree in a related field (e.g., transportation, business, engineering, economics)
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level in the federal sector
Ability to pass a background investigation for a public trust position
Must be able to provide all required transcripts by the closing date

Preferred Qualifications for Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Deck)

Possession of a valid U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) at the Chief Mate level or higher
Experience as a Deck Watch Officer (DWO) on vessels of 1600 GRT or higher
Two or more years of civilian experience as a Subject Matter Expert in the Mariner Training and Assessment Division at the National Maritime Center
High-level proficiency in technical writing and policy development
Strong psychometric evaluation and item analysis skills

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave
✓Tuition reimbursement programs
✓Flexible work schedules
✓Recruitment/Relocation incentives for qualified candidates
✓Student loan repayment eligibility up to $10,000

💡 How to Apply Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Deck) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Deck) Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume limited to two pages.
Gather transcripts and professional certifications (e.g., MMC, DD-214).
Complete the online application and answer the assessment questions.
Monitor email for USA Hire assessment links.
Submit all documentation by the 11/11/2026 deadline.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly to two pages; any longer and your application will be rejected.
Focus your resume on specialized deck experience rather than just generic duties.
Carefully review the 'How to Apply' section regarding transcript requirements.
Complete any required assessments promptly; they are vital to your referral status.
Proofread your responses to the free-response questions to ensure clarity and professional tone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of this position?

You will manage the lifecycle of merchant mariner deck examinations, including content development, psychometric analysis, and serving as a technical authority on credentialing policies.

Can education be substituted for the specialized experience at the GS-13 level?

No, at the GS-13 level, specific specialized professional experience is required and cannot be substituted by education alone.

Are there recruitment incentives for this role?

Yes, newly appointed federal employees or those relocating for this position may be eligible for one-time incentives, subject to a service agreement.

Job from U.S. Coast Guard

The U.S. Coast Guard, a vital component of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), works tirelessly to secure our nation's maritime interests. Whether in the heartland, at ports, or on the high seas, Coast Guard personnel safeguard our nation. As a civilian specialist, you become a key member of this dedicated team, working in an environment that values technical excellence and national security.