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

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is currently seeking a highly qualified professional to fill the role of Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine). This is a unique opportunity for individuals with deep experience in marine engineering to influence the standards of safety and proficiency for the nation's merchant marine personnel. Working under the National Maritime Center (NMC), you will play a critical role in the lifecycle of mariner certification.

Job Responsibilities

In this position, you are not merely a consultant; you are the architect of the assessment systems used to evaluate the next generation of engineers. Key responsibilities include:

Developing Assessment Content: Creating subject matter expertise-based questions for engineering exams.
Lifecycle Management: Overseeing the creation, maintenance, and disposition of mariner assessment programs.
Process Improvement: Monitoring examination metrics to identify trends and implementing process enhancements.
Policy Oversight: Drafting and editing high-level policy documents and technical reports.

Requirements

To be considered for this GS-13 position, candidates must meet rigorous standards. You must demonstrate at least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.

Requirement	Description
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen
Credentialing	Must hold/held First Assistant Engineer or higher
Education	Relevant degree or equivalent experience
Documentation	Legible transcripts and SF-50 required

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range of $106,437 to $163,062 per year, depending on the specific location selected. The role also qualifies for potential student loan repayment (up to $10,000) and recruitment/relocation incentives for eligible candidates.

Benefits

Employees of the DHS enjoy a robust benefits package, which includes:

Comprehensive health and wellness coverage.
Retirement plans and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government contributions.
Flexible work schedules.
Paid federal holidays and generous leave policies.
Opportunities for professional growth and training.

Application Tips

Respect the Limits: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit will be automatically rejected.
Be Specific: Focus on your engineering leadership rather than general tasks.
Use the Portal: All materials must be uploaded via the official online platform.

If you possess the engineering background and the passion for maritime excellence, this is an unmatched opportunity to contribute to the U.S. Coast Guard's mission. Apply by the closing date to start your journey.

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

Join the U.S. Coast Guard as a Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist and leverage your engineering expertise to safeguard our nation's maritime interests.

Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine) Job Overview

The U.S. Coast Guard's National Maritime Center is seeking a highly skilled professional to serve as a Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine). This role centers on the technical evaluation of merchant marine personnel and the oversight of knowledge-based competency examinations. As a key member of the Coast Guard team, you will ensure that maritime safety standards are upheld through rigorous assessment development and program management. This position offers a competitive federal salary, excellent benefits, and the opportunity to contribute to vital homeland security operations.

Requirements for Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine)

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must be registered or exempt from Selective Service.
Must possess a valid state driver's license.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or equivalent.
Must hold or have held a U.S. Merchant Mariner credential (First Assistant Engineer, Unlimited or higher) or equivalent military engineering officer experience.
Successful completion of a background investigation.
Adherence to a one-year probationary period may be required.

Preferred Qualifications for Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine)

Extensive experience in managing shipboard engineering systems and maintenance programs.
Proven background in developing technical documentation and professional policy correspondence.
Prior experience as a subject matter expert in mariner training and assessment divisions.
Strong proficiency in analyzing metrics and improving organizational processes.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary and locality pay.
✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style) with government matching.
✓Generous personal leave and paid federal holidays.
✓Flexible work schedules and career development programs.
✓Student loan repayment eligibility up to $10,000 (pre-tax).
✓Recruitment/relocation incentives available for qualified candidates.

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

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

Create or update your account on the federal jobs portal.
Prepare a resume limited to exactly two pages (minimum 10pt font, 0.5-inch margins).
Gather supporting documents, including SF-50s, transcripts, and military service documentation.
Submit your application through the official portal before the cut-off dates.
Complete the USA Hire assessment within the provided testing window if notified.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; exceeding this will disqualify your application.
Highlight specific leadership experience in marine engineering rather than just listing daily tasks.
Double-check that your transcripts clearly display course numbers, titles, and credit hours.
Submit your application well before the 30-day cut-off cycles to ensure timely consideration.
Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to practice assessment types before taking the test.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this role?

You will develop and manage knowledge-based assessments for marine engineering credentialing to ensure that maritime professionals meet Coast Guard safety and proficiency standards.

Is a security clearance required?

No, this position does not require a security clearance, though it does involve a background investigation for suitability and fitness.

Can I submit my resume via email if I have trouble with the portal?

No, all applications must be submitted through the designated online portal. Email and mail-in applications are not accepted.

What is the testing window for the assessment?

You will be notified of your specific testing window upon application. Ensure you monitor your email closely.

Is there an opportunity for relocation?

Yes, relocation incentives are available for qualified federal employees transferring to this position.

Job from U.S. Coast Guard

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Coast Guard work tirelessly to secure our nation's maritime interests. Whether in heartland ports or on the open sea, the USCG ensures that our maritime systems are resilient, secure, and professionally operated. By joining the NMC, you contribute to a mission-critical team that upholds the highest technical standards in the marine industry.