Description
We are seeking an experiencedTop-Level Deck Mariner Subject Matter Expert (SME) to provide maritime expertise in support of a U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) National Maritime Center in Martinsburg, WV. The NMC is the implementation body of the Mariner Credentialing Program (MCP) and receives and processes all applications for U.S. Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMCs). The Mariner Training & Assessment Branch NMC-2 evaluates Courses/Programs and their associated Sites, Instructors, Assessors and Proctors for approval.
The Top-Level Deck SME will leverage extensive experience as a senior merchant mariner to make recommendations to the USCG and draft appropriate responses regarding the conformance of mariner training courses.
The ideal candidate will have significant experience serving in a senior deck officer capacity aboard ocean-going vessels and will possess an active or previously held U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) at the required unlimited-tonnage level.
Responsibilities
- Provide senior-levelmaritime subject matter expertise as a Master or Chief Mate of Unlimited Tonnage upon Oceans to evaluate Course/Program applications and make recommendations for approval, denial, or to request additional information to support the evaluation.
- Review existing maritime policies, procedures, manuals, guidance, and technical documentation for accuracy, applicability, and alignment with USCG policies.
- Analyze operational requirements and provide recommendations based on extensive experience aboard ocean-going vessels.
- Review and provide technical input on training materials, course content, instructional products, job aids, exercises, and assessment materials.
- Support special projects and other maritime-related analytical or advisory assignments as directed by program leadership.
- Maintain professional familiarity with current commercial maritime practices and leverage lessons learned from prior ocean-going service.
- Perform all duties in accordance with applicable USCG policies, security requirements, and program procedures.
Qualifications
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance.
- Must hold or have held a valid U.S. Coast Guard-issued Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as one of the following:
- Master of Unlimited Tonnage upon Oceans (Master of vessels of any gross tons upon oceans); OR
- Chief Mate of Unlimited Tonnage upon Oceans.
- Minimum of five (5) years of experience sailing on the qualifying credential.
- Demonstrated knowledge of:
- Vessel operations and deck department functions
- Navigation and bridge operations
- Seamanship and watch standing
- Maritime safety and risk management
- Shipboard procedures and operational practices
- Maritime regulations and industry standards
- Ability to communicate complex maritime concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively with USCG personnel, government stakeholders, contractors, and multidisciplinary teams.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in developing, writing, reviewing, or updating maritime training courses.
"This position is contingent upon contract award and funding. Applicants selected may be offered but cannot begin work until funding has been confirmed."
Job ID2026-26117
Work TypeHybrid
