Launch Your Career: Become a Merchant Mariner Safety and Suitability Screener

Are you looking for a career that combines analytical precision with a vital national security mission? The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is currently accepting applications for the position of Merchant Mariner Safety and Suitability Screener in Martinsburg, West Virginia. This role is essential to the safety of our nation's waterways, ensuring that those who work on our vessels meet the highest standards of integrity and compliance.

Job Responsibilities

As a Screener, your daily tasks will involve more than just data entry. You will:

Audit Applications: Reconcile inconsistencies in documentation submitted by mariners.
Database Management: Utilize proprietary systems to verify personal data, criminal histories, and citizenship status.
Policy Application: Interpret complex legal frameworks, including U.S. Code and Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), to determine eligibility.
Collaborate: Work with team members to resolve unprecedented or highly complex cases.

Comparison Table: Qualifications and Skills

Feature	Requirement / Expectation
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen
Education Requirement	None (Experience-based)
Resume Limit	Strictly 2 Pages
Background Check	Required (Suitability/Fitness)
Soft Skills	High attention to detail & integrity

Requirements

To be eligible, you must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-05 level (for GS-06) or GS-06 level (for GS-07). This experience must show you can apply regulatory guidelines and manage complex data. All candidates must pass a background investigation and follow federal direct deposit requirements.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive federal salary range between $51,957 and $75,059 annually, reflecting the responsibility of the role and the grade level progression.

Benefits

DHS employees enjoy an extensive benefits package designed to support both professional and personal well-being, including health insurance, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) contributions, paid leave, and professional development training.

Application Tips

Watch the Clock: If invited to the USA Hire assessments, you only have 48 hours to complete them.
Formatting Matters: Keep your resume under two pages and use a font size of at least 10pt.
Detail is Key: Clearly list your hours worked per week and specific dates to help HR verify your experience.

This is a unique opportunity to serve the public in a role that directly supports maritime safety. If you have the required experience and a commitment to integrity, submit your application before the closing date to join the U.S. Coast Guard team.

Why This Merchant Mariner Safety And Suitability Screener Job Matters

Protect our nation's maritime interests by ensuring the integrity and safety of mariner credentials as a Safety and Suitability Screener for the U.S. Coast Guard.

Merchant Mariner Safety And Suitability Screener Job Overview

The National Maritime Center (NMC) of the U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a diligent professional to join the Safety and Suitability Screening Section in Martinsburg, West Virginia. This role, classified under the Legal Instruments Examining series, focuses on auditing applications, verifying data against federal databases, and upholding strict regulatory standards to ensure only qualified individuals receive Merchant Mariner Credentials.

Requirements for Merchant Mariner Safety And Suitability Screener

U.S. Citizenship
Registration with or exemption from the Selective Service
Ability to undergo and pass a background investigation
Minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05/06 level
Completion of any required USA Hire assessments within 48 hours of invitation

Preferred Qualifications for Merchant Mariner Safety And Suitability Screener

Experience interpreting and applying federal regulatory frameworks, such as the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)
Proficiency in navigating complex proprietary databases for auditing and record tracking
Demonstrated ability to reconcile conflicting documentation in high-volume processing environments
Strong analytical skills regarding legal guidelines and policy adherence

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Health, dental, and vision insurance
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave
✓Employee Assistance Program
✓Flexible work schedules and wellness programs
✓Tuition reimbursement opportunities

💡 How to Apply Merchant Mariner Safety And Suitability Screener Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Merchant Mariner Safety And Suitability Screener Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
Submit your resume along with all required supporting documents via the USAJOBS portal.
Monitor your email for a potential invitation to the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.
Complete any required assessments within the 48-hour deadline.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes start/end dates in mm/yy format and hours worked per week.
Do not include personal identifiers such as SSN, date of birth, or photos on your resume.
Proofread your application materials for legibility; illegible documents will result in disqualification.
Submit all required transcripts or VEOA/CTAP documentation by the closing date.
Use the practice resources available in the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the page limit for the resume?

The resume must be no longer than two pages. Applications with longer resumes will be rejected by the system.

Is a security clearance required for this position?

No, this position does not require a formal security clearance, but you must pass a background investigation for suitability.

What if I need a reasonable accommodation for the assessments?

Requests for reasonable accommodations must be made prior to beginning the USA Hire assessments. Instructions are provided within the application process.

Job from U.S. Coast Guard

The U.S. Coast Guard, a component of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is tasked with protecting American interests. From securing ports to safeguarding cyberspace and responding to disasters, the Coast Guard relies on a diverse team of professionals. By joining the National Maritime Center (NMC), you become part of a specialized workforce dedicated to the credentialing and oversight of the maritime industry.