Become a Command Center Watchstander with the U.S. Coast Guard
Are you looking for a career that combines leadership, technical expertise, and a direct impact on national maritime safety? The U.S. Coast Guard is currently hiring a Command Center Watchstander in New Haven, Connecticut. This is a unique opportunity to serve as the backbone of maritime operations for the Sector Long Island Sound, ensuring the safety of life at sea and the protection of our ports and waterways.
Job Responsibilities
As a Command Center Watchstander, you are the focal point for mission execution. Your daily tasks include:
- Operational Oversight: Monitoring maritime activities to ensure full situational awareness.
- SAR Coordination: Developing search action plans to minimize the risk to life and property.
- Incident Command: Coordinating response efforts for marine casualties, collisions, and groundings.
- Communication: Serving as the liaison between federal, state, and local law enforcement and government agencies.
- Data Reporting: Analyzing meteorological and nautical data to provide briefings to senior leadership.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific federal criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Background: Must successfully pass a security investigation for a Secret clearance.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level.
- Documentation: All application packages must include a two-page limit resume.
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Position Grade | GS-11 |
| Location | New Haven, CT |
| Security Clearance | Secret |
| Resume Limit | Maximum 2 Pages |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $88,005 to $114,413 per year. In addition to the base compensation, successful applicants may be eligible for a recruitment or relocation bonus of up to 25% of the salary, provided they sign a 12-month service agreement.
Benefits
DHS provides an industry-leading benefits package:
- Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- Generous paid time off and federal holidays
- Training and tuition reimbursement programs
Application Tips
To stand out during the review process, ensure your resume is formatted clearly. Use chronological entries that highlight your specialized experience in maritime safety or law enforcement. Because the resume limit is strictly two pages, prioritize the most relevant accomplishments from your career.
Serving as a Command Center Watchstander is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the safety of our nation's coastlines. If you have the experience and the drive to command in a high-pressure environment, submit your application today.
Why This Command Center Watchstander Job Matters
Take command of the coastline. Your expertise in maritime operations can lead to a critical, high-impact role with the U.S. Coast Guard as a Command Center Watchstander.
Command Center Watchstander Job Overview
The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a dedicated Command Center Watchstander to join the team at Sector Long Island Sound in New Haven, Connecticut. This GS-11 position serves as a central hub for operational oversight, managing critical maritime communications, law enforcement response, and search and rescue activities. You will act as a pivotal decision-maker, ensuring situational awareness and coordinating assets to protect our nation's maritime interests.
Requirements for Command Center Watchstander
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be registered with or exempt from Selective Service.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug test and medical examination.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-09 grade level or equivalent.
- Must meet Time-in-Grade requirements by the closing date.
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Command Center Watchstander
- Proven experience in search and rescue (SAR) coordination.
- Demonstrated ability in maritime law enforcement operations.
- Strong proficiency in maritime data analysis and reporting.
- Excellent communication skills for interacting with federal, state, and local agencies.
- Advanced technical skills with standard workstation software and database management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave
- ✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
- ✓Flexible work schedules and wellness programs
- ✓Recruitment or relocation incentives up to 25% for qualified applicants
💡 How to Apply Command Center Watchstander Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Command Center Watchstander Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume limited to two pages (font size 10pt or larger, 0.5-inch margins).
- Upload required documents, including SF-50 forms and transcripts if applicable.
- Submit your application through the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
- Complete the required USA Hire assessment if prompted via email link within 48 hours.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; any resume exceeding two pages will automatically disqualify you.
- Clearly label your experience with start/end dates and average hours worked per week.
- Do not include personal information like your SSN, date of birth, or photographs.
- Ensure all uploaded documents are legible and in English.
- Set aside about two hours to complete the online assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary responsibility of a Command Center Watchstander?
You will serve as the eyes and ears of the Coast Guard sector, managing incoming maritime data, coordinating emergency response assets, and maintaining constant contact with leadership regarding ongoing operations.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, periodic travel via commercial, private, or military vessels and aircraft may be required as part of your operational duties.
Are there recruitment incentives available?
Yes, for qualified candidates, the Coast Guard may offer a one-time recruitment or relocation incentive of up to 25% of your salary, subject to a 12-month service agreement.
Can I apply if I don't have military experience?
Yes, this position is open to qualified civilians who meet the specialized experience and assessment criteria.
Will I be notified of my status?
Yes, the system provides automatic status updates via the USAJOBS portal throughout the hiring process.
Job from U.S. Coast Guard
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Coast Guard are tasked with the vital mission of safeguarding American interests across the globe. By working at the Sector Long Island Sound, you become part of a professional team dedicated to search and rescue, law enforcement, and marine environmental response. Your work directly contributes to preventing maritime crises and maintaining operational readiness.