Navigating Your Career: Master Position with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Are you a maritime professional looking to transition your career into a high-impact leadership role? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is seeking a qualified, experienced individual to fill the position of Master within the Wilmington Operations Division. This is a unique opportunity to play a vital role in the Navigation Branch, overseeing the complex operations of floating plant vessels in one of the most important coastal regions in the United States.
Job Responsibilities
As a Master, your role extends beyond the bridge. You will serve as a Port Captain, providing direct technical and administrative supervision to all district vessel masters. Key responsibilities include:
- Operations Management: Scheduling employees on floating plants to maximize production and minimize downtime.
- Technical Oversight: Monitoring and evaluating dredge reports and vessel performance.
- Maintenance Coordination: Overseeing shipyard activities and providing recommendations for budget, repairs, and overhauls.
- Leadership: Managing performance standards, hiring, and disciplinary actions for the crew.
Comparison: Standard Maritime vs. USACE Master Role
| Feature | Private Sector Captain | USACE Master (Port Captain) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Vessel Operation | Operations & Administration |
| Supervision | Crew only | Full District Vessel Fleet |
| Focus | Transit/Cargo | Dredging/Navigation Projects |
| Environment | Commercial Shipping | Public Service/Infrastructure |
Requirements
This position requires a high level of specialized maritime experience. Applicants must meet the "screen-out" element, which assesses your ability to handle deck and engine room operations, personnel practices, and technical standards without daily supervision. Mandatory documentation includes:
- Valid U.S. Coast Guard license (1600 GRT or higher, Near Coastal).
- Current Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
- Valid STCW certification.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly rate between $49.52 and $57.77, depending on experience and locality pay. Employees benefit from the stability of the federal civil service, including potential for relocation assistance and long-term career growth within the Logistics Career Management Directorate.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your resume is concise—no more than two pages. Use plain language to describe your accomplishments. If your experience is in specialized dredging or shipyard management, highlight these achievements clearly, as they are central to the role.
Serving as a Master with the US Army Corps of Engineers is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the maintenance and safety of our nation's navigation infrastructure. If you meet the qualifications, this position offers a rewarding way to apply your maritime leadership skills in a collaborative, professional, and essential environment.
Why This Master Job Matters
Take the helm of maritime operations with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Wilmington, North Carolina, where your leadership keeps our waterways safe and functional.
Master Job Overview
The Wilmington Operations Division of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a seasoned maritime professional to serve as Master. This role is a vital component of the Navigation Branch, responsible for overseeing a fleet of floating plant assets and providing technical and administrative supervision to vessel masters. This is a critical leadership position requiring a blend of maritime expertise, mechanical systems knowledge, and operational management skills to ensure project efficiency and vessel readiness.
Requirements for Master
- Must hold a valid U.S. Coast Guard license as Master of Steam or Motor Vessels of 1600 Gross register tons or higher (Near Coastal).
- Must possess and maintain a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
- Must hold current STCW certification (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers).
- Ability to perform technical and administrative supervision over vessel personnel.
- US Citizenship is required.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Must be able to document relevant maritime experience as outlined in the application guidelines.
Preferred Qualifications for Master
- Proven track record in managing floating plant operations.
- Experience in coordinating shipyard maintenance, repairs, and dry-docking schedules.
- Strong technical understanding of dredging and vessel mechanical systems.
- Proficiency in budgeting and administrative oversight for maritime assets.
- Demonstrated ability to improve operational efficiencies through procedural evaluation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly compensation with locality pay.
- ✓Opportunities for federal career progression.
- ✓Potential for relocation expense authorization based on government interest.
- ✓Access to federal benefits programs and career management support.
- ✓Participation in the Logistics Career Management Directorate.
💡 How to Apply Master Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Master Job
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Include dates of employment (month/year), hours worked per week, and a detailed description of duties for each role.
- Gather copies of your U.S. Coast Guard license, TWIC, and STCW certifications.
- Submit the application package directly to the provided email address and the online requisitions portal.
- Ensure all documents are submitted no later than 11:59 PM EST on November 8, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Focus on clarity: Avoid using obscure acronyms or technical jargon that a generalist recruiter might not understand.
- Check your page count: Any resume exceeding two pages will be automatically rejected.
- Sanitize sensitive information: You may remove personal details of third parties from your supporting documents, such as marriage certificates or military orders.
- Verify requirements: Ensure your licenses are valid and clearly attached; missing documentation results in automatic ineligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a college degree required for this role?
This position requires specific maritime experience and licensure; there is no substitution of education for the required experience.
Can I apply if I don't have a TWIC card yet?
No. Possessing and maintaining a TWIC is a mandatory requirement for consideration, and documentation must be included in your application package.
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers provides vital public and military engineering services. As a civilian employee, you serve alongside military professionals to form a Total Army, providing specialized technical skills that are essential to national infrastructure. The Wilmington District is responsible for maintaining the safety and viability of our waterways, making the Master position a cornerstone of their operational success.