Become a Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist with the U.S. Coast Guard
The United States Coast Guard (USCG) is an integral component of the Department of Homeland Security, dedicated to protecting the Nation’s maritime interests. We are currently looking for a Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine) to join our team at the National Maritime Center. This position is perfect for experienced marine engineers looking to pivot into a high-level administrative and regulatory role that shapes the future of merchant mariner competency.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be responsible for the full lifecycle of mariner examinations. Key duties include:
- Content Development: Crafting subject matter questions for engine-related knowledge assessments.
- Process Management: Ensuring credentialing programs are compliant and efficient.
- Metric Monitoring: Analyzing examination trends to recommend improvements.
- Reporting: Drafting professional policy documents and technical reports.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-13 level position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Credentialing: Must hold a First Assistant Engineer (Unlimited) license or higher.
- Experience: Extensive experience as an Engineer of the Watch on vessels over 4000 HP or equivalent subject matter expertise.
- Compliance: Must pass a thorough background investigation.
Eligibility Comparison
| Requirement | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Licensure | First Asst Engineer (Unlimited) | Mandatory |
| Experience | 4000+ HP Vessels | Required |
| Education | Relevant Field Degree | Preferred/Substitution |
| Assessment | USA Hire Competency | Mandatory |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $106,437 to $163,062 per year, depending on the specific location of the duty station and individual experience. The role provides stability, annual pay adjustments, and career advancement opportunities within the federal system.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Homeland Security enjoy a comprehensive package:
- Full medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Retirement benefits.
- Potential for recruitment/relocation bonuses.
- Tuition reimbursement and ongoing training.
Application Tips
- Resume Length: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit are automatically disqualified.
- Clarity: Use clear dates (MM/YYYY) and hours worked to ensure HR can verify your experience.
- Assessments: Set aside at least two hours for the USA Hire assessment, but be aware you can pause and resume if needed.
If you are ready to take your maritime expertise to the next level while serving your country, apply to join the National Maritime Center today. Your contributions will help maintain the highest safety standards in the global maritime industry.
Why This Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine) Job Matters
Apply your maritime engineering expertise to help secure the Nation’s maritime infrastructure as a Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist with the U.S. Coast Guard.
Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine) Job Overview
The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a highly qualified professional to fill the role of Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine) at the National Maritime Center. This vital GS-13 position focuses on the creation and management of competency-based assessments and examinations for merchant marine personnel. Candidates will play a critical role in ensuring that mariners meet rigorous safety and proficiency standards, directly impacting the integrity of U.S. maritime operations.
Requirements for Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine)
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must hold or have held a U.S. Merchant Mariner credential (First Assistant Engineer, Unlimited or higher) or equivalent military experience.
- Must have served as a qualified Engineer of the Watch on vessels greater than 4000 HP or have two years as a subject matter expert in Mariner Training.
- Must pass a background investigation.
- Must possess a valid state driver's license.
- Registration with the Selective Service (if applicable).
- Must complete all required online assessments within provided deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine)
- Demonstrated experience in supervising engineering personnel in shipboard environments.
- Strong background in developing technical policies, correspondence, or program-level documentation.
- Proven proficiency in managing maintenance programs and verifying regulatory compliance.
- High level of competency in analytical reasoning and professional communication.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality adjustments.
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance options.
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent) with government matching.
- ✓Flexible Spending Accounts.
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous personal leave.
- ✓Recruitment/Relocation incentives for eligible candidates.
- ✓Potential student loan repayment up to $10,000.
- ✓Employee assistance and wellness programs.
💡 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 USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume limited to exactly two pages, ensuring clear start/end dates and hours worked.
- Collect all supporting documentation, including transcripts and veterans' preference documents.
- Apply online via the official portal before the closing date.
- Monitor email for invitations to complete the mandatory USA Hire Assessments.
- Submit responses to the optional essay questions provided in the questionnaire.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages with at least 10pt font and 0.5-inch margins; longer resumes will be automatically rejected.
- Ensure your experience is clearly described; copying the job description into your resume will not count as valid experience.
- Submit your application well before the cutoff dates to ensure you are included in the periodic referral cycles.
- Save the confirmation email and assessment links as soon as they are received to ensure you don't miss the 48-hour completion window.
- Thoroughly review the USA Hire assessment practice resources provided online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this role?
The Senior Merchant Mariner Evaluation Specialist (Engine) focuses on developing and managing knowledge-based competency assessments for mariner credentialing to ensure engineering standards are met.
Are multiple locations available?
Yes, this position is available in various locations including Juneau, Long Beach, Oakland, Miami, Honolulu, New Orleans, Boston, Baltimore, New York, Toledo, Memphis, Houston, Seattle, and Martinsburg.
Is a security clearance required?
No, a formal security clearance is not required for this position, although all applicants must successfully pass a background investigation.
Can I apply if I have military experience?
Yes, military experience equivalent to the required civilian credentials is highly encouraged.
Is relocation assistance available?
Relocation incentives may be authorized for eligible current federal employees.
Job from U.S. Coast Guard
The National Maritime Center (NMC) serves as the heart of mariner credentialing in the United States. By joining the USCG as a civilian specialist, you become a vital contributor to the safety of our ports, waterways, and global maritime logistics. Our mission requires dedicated professionals who value integrity, attention to detail, and a commitment to public service.