Navy COOL Summary - 623X - Engineering/Repair Specialty LDO

Designator Description

Officer technical managers in the field of surface ship marine engineering, including operation, maintenance and repair of main propulsion and auxiliary machinery and systems. They may supervise maintenance and repair of submarine's hull, structure and associated fittings. When assigned to staffs they provide technical assistance and advice pertaining to suitability of ships to meet operational demands; prepare ship alterations from design modifications; and plan, organize, and control industrial shop production. They may serve as, but are not limited to serving as, hull repair officers, hull superintendents, docking officer, or ship engineers in various operational and staff billets.

623X Enlisted Source Ratings

National Certifications and Federal Licenses

The following civilian credentials are related to 623X - Engineering/Repair Specialty LDO. These credentials may require additional education, training or experience. For more information about these credentials, click on the credential title below.

You can use the Engage My Career Tool on MilGears to enter personalized information to learn how your training and experience can meet certification requirements.

For more supervisory and managerial credentials, please refer to the Leader - Dept Head/Division Officer page or the Leader - Commanding Officer/Executive Officer/Officer in Charge page.

Credential	Agency	Related As	Attainability	Navy$	GI Bill^®	Accreditation
Certified Safety Professional (CSP) Is In Demand	Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP)	Most	medium	Navy Bucks	GI Bill	Accreditation
Associate Electronics Technician (CETa) Is Not In Demand	Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I)	Other			GI Bill	Accreditation
RADAR Electronics Technician (RAD) Is Not In Demand	Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I)	Other			GI Bill	Accreditation
Certified Electronics Technician - Associate-Level (Associate CET) Is Not In Demand	International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET)	Other			GI Bill
Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Radar Is Not In Demand	International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET)	Other			GI Bill
ASNT Central Certification Program Level II - Magnetic Particle Testing (ACCP-MT) Is Not In Demand	American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)	Other
Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Personnel - X-Ray and RAM (IRSSP-Combo) Is Not In Demand	American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)	Other			GI Bill
Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) Is In Demand	American Society for Quality (ASQ)	Most	low	Navy Bucks	GI Bill
Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing Professional - Senior Is Not In Demand	American Society of Mechanical Engineers International (ASME)	Other			GI Bill
Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM) Is Not In Demand	Association for Facilities Engineering (AFE)	Some	high	Navy Bucks
Certified Technology Manager (CTM) Is Not In Demand	Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE)	Some		Navy Bucks
Certified Senior Technology Manager (CSTM) Is Not In Demand	Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE)	Some		Navy Bucks
Project Management Professional (PMP) Is In Demand	Project Management Institute (PMI)	Some	medium	Navy Bucks	GI Bill	Accreditation
National 3rd Assistant Engineer Steam/Motor/GT Is Not In Demand	United States Coast Guard (USCG)	Some	medium	Navy Bucks
National 1st Assistant Engineer Steam/Motor/GT Is Not In Demand	United States Coast Guard (USCG)	Some	medium	Navy Bucks
National 2nd Assistant Engineer Steam/Motor/GT Is Not In Demand	United States Coast Guard (USCG)	Some	medium	Navy Bucks
National Assistant Engineer (Limited) Steam/Motor/GT Is Not In Demand	United States Coast Guard (USCG)	Some	medium	Navy Bucks
National Designated Duty Engineer Steam/Motor/GT Is Not In Demand	United States Coast Guard (USCG)	Some	medium	Navy Bucks
Associate Engineering Technologist (AT) Is Not In Demand	National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET)	Most	high	Navy Bucks
Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) Is In Demand	American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS)	Other			GI Bill
Industrial Electronics Technician (IND) Is In Demand	Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I)	Other			GI Bill	Accreditation
Certified Calibration Technician (CCT) Is Not In Demand	American Society for Quality (ASQ)	Most	medium	Navy Bucks	GI Bill
Commercial Mechanical Inspector - M2 Is Not In Demand	International Code Council (ICC)	Most	high	Navy Bucks	GI Bill
Certified Engineering Technologist (CT) Is Not In Demand	National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET)	Most	medium	Navy Bucks
Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professionals (CMRP) Is In Demand	Society for Maintenance and Reliability Professionals (SMRP)	Some	high	Navy Bucks	GI Bill	Accreditation
Certified Maintenance and Reliability Technician (CMRT) Is Not In Demand	Society for Maintenance and Reliability Professionals (SMRP)	Other
Planning and Scheduling Professional Certification (PSP) Is In Demand	AACE International	Other
Associate Safety Professional (ASP) Is In Demand	Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP)	Most	high	Navy Bucks		Accreditation
ASNT Central Certification Program Level II - Liquid Penetrant Testing (ACCP-PT) Is Not In Demand	American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)	Other
ASNT Central Certification Program Level II - Radiographic Testing (ACCP-RT) Is Not In Demand	American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)	Other
ASNT Central Certification Program Level II - Ultrasonic Testing (ACCP-UT) Is Not In Demand	American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)	Other
ASNT Central Certification Program Level II - Visual and Optical Testing (ACCP-VT) Is Not In Demand	American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)	Other
ASNT Central Certification Program (ACCP) Professional Level III - Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) Is Not In Demand	American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)	Other
ASNT Central Certification Program (ACCP) Professional Level III - Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT) Is Not In Demand	American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)	Other
ASNT Central Certification Program (ACCP) Professional Level III - Radiographic Testing (RT) Is Not In Demand	American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)	Other
ASNT Central Certification Program (ACCP) Professional Level III - Ultrasonic Testing (UT) Is Not In Demand	American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)	Other
ASNT Central Certification Program (ACCP) Professional Level III - Visual Testing (VT) Is Not In Demand	American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)	Other
STCW III/1 - OICEW or DDE 750 kW/1000 HP or More Is Not In Demand	United States Coast Guard (USCG)	Some	medium	Navy Bucks
National Qualified Member of the Engineering Department (QMED) Is Not In Demand	United States Coast Guard (USCG)	Some	high	Navy Bucks
Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) Is Not In Demand	Transportation Security Administration (TSA)	Some	high	Navy Bucks
Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam - Electrical and Computer Is Not In Demand	National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES)	Other
Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam - Mechanical Is Not In Demand	National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES)	Other
Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam - Other Disciplines Is Not In Demand	National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES)	Other
Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam - Control Systems Is Not In Demand	National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES)	Other
Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam - Electrical and Computer Is Not In Demand	National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES)	Other
Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam - Mechanical Is Not In Demand	National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES)	Other
Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam - Naval Architecture and Marine Is Not In Demand	National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES)	Other

State Licenses

Some states have specific licensing requirements for the following related civilian occupations. These state licenses may require additional education, training or experience. Click on the occupation below to get more information on state requirements from the U.S. Department of Labor.

For more supervisory and managerial occupations, please refer to the LEADER - Dept Head/Division Officer page or the LEADER - Commanding Officer/Executive Officer/Officer in Charge page.

COOL may be able to assist with funding state licensure on a case by case basis. The following conditions should apply:

Navy Reservists (SELRES) may get a state license funded based on their Navy or civilian occupation, earned academic degree or a semester course. The state license must have relevancy to a Navy occupation or collateral duty.
Service members may get a state/county or municipality certification/license funded if they are separating or retiring in the state in which they desire the license. This will be a onetime funding opportunity based on their Navy or civilian occupation, earned academic degree or a semester course. Renewals are authorized 60 days prior to their discharge/separation. The license must have relevancy to a Navy occupation or collateral duty. Service members should make contact with Navy COOL prior to 18 months remaining on their soft/hard EAOS due to the complicated funding processes of some states. Certification/license must be completed 60 days prior to separation.
For each of the above opportunities, the Service member must contact Navy COOL prior to submitting a voucher request for licensure funding coordination.

As with any state license, you must meet all state eligibility criteria. Funding of a state license must have relevancy to a Navy occupation or collateral duty (e.g. no real estate license, no beautician license, no private eye license, etc…). Contact Navy COOL for more information.

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USCG (NMC) Credentialing

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a civilian mariner when you separate from the military, employment in the Maritime Industry as either a civil service mariner (CIVMAR) or as a Merchant Mariner in the shipping industry, you will likely need to attain credentials from the US Coast Guard through the National Maritime Center (NMC). To evaluate your sea service for Merchant Marine credential eligibility, see the MilGears Mil-2-Mariner (M2M) Tool.

Enlisted Active Duty and Reserve US Navy personnel in eligible ratings may have the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) fees, application fees, and USCG credentialing exam fees funded through the Navy COOL program. For more detailed information about mariner careers, USCG credentialing requirements, how to apply for USCG credentials, and how to use Navy COOL for funding, review the Blueprint to Mariner document.

The following sections outline the USCG credentialing requirements and processes.

Waiver of Merchant Mariner Credential Application Fees for Active Duty Members

Guidance on Waiver of Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) Application Fees for Active Duty Members of the Uniformed Services

The Office of Merchant Mariner Credentialing has published CG-MMC Policy Letter 02-20, titled: Guidance on Waiver of Merchant Mariner Credential Application Fees for Active Duty Members of the Uniformed Services.

Active duty members of the uniformed services are eligible for a waiver of fees for evaluation of an application for an MMC, the administration of an examination required for an endorsement, and for the issuance of an MMC.
The waiver applies to members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, Coast Guard, and the commissioned corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Public Health Service. This policy is available on the Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credentialing policy website on the MMC Policy Webpage.

Mariners and other interested parties should contact the Mariner Credentialing Program Policy Division at:
MMCPolicy@uscg.mil or (202) 372-2357 with any questions or feedback.

Merchant Marine Credentialing Basics

Merchant Marine Credentials (MMC) are credentials issued by the United States Coast Guard through the National Maritime Center. In general, there are two types of merchant fleets: those that operate in national waters and those that operate in international waters. The type of credential you need depends on the fleet type. There are several credentials for which you may be eligible depending on your military occupation, training, and experience.

The two general types of credentials issued to US mariners corresponding to the two fleet types are:

National Endorsements
National endorsements can be used for positions including passenger for hire vessels, charter boats, offshore supply vessels, tow boats and domestic operations.
Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW)
Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) for Seafarers are internationally recognized endorsements. STCW endorsements grant greater employment flexibility and are highly desired by employers working with large cargo vessels, international tows, tankers, and cruise ships.

Which Credential Is Right For You?

Which credential to choose is based on your professional experience and the requirements you meet as well as your professional goals. Small and large vessels are used in both national and STCW operation, so the "best" choice will depend on your personal goals and where you want to work. Depending on your military occupation, training and experience, you can be awarded different credits from the National Maritime Center towards your Merchant Mariner Credential. The two primary categories of credentials you would choose from are:

Engine
Engine means the department aboard a ship responsible for the main propulsion and auxiliary systems, and other mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and refrigeration systems, including deck machinery and cargo-handling equipment. For more information and topics on the Engine exam contents, see the USCG Engine Reference Library.
Deck
Deck means the department aboard a ship responsible for navigation, cargo, command, and control functions. Deck crew (excluding individuals serving under their officer endorsement) means, as used in 46 U.S.C. 8702, only the following members of the deck department: able seamen, boatswains, and ordinary seamen. For more information and topics on the Deck exam contents, see the USCG Deck Reference Library.

Some Deck functions currently in relatively high demand are highlighted in the Civilian Mariner Careers tab in the Related Occupations section on this page.

To evaluate your sea service for Merchant Marine credential eligibility, see the MilGears Mil-2-Mariner (M2M) Tool.

Military Training Approved By USCG (NMC)

To determine if your military or civilian training courses have been reviewed and accepted by the USCG National Maritime Center (NMC) for credit towards credentialing standards, review the approved course listings.

Some USCG NMC approved US Navy training is highlighted in this US Navy school report.

The following links provide copies of USCG approval letters that you may include in your application. These training approvals are based on a review of naval training to USCG/STCW endorsements. The approvals may meet USCG/STCW requirements in whole or fulfill a portion of training towards a USCG/STCW endorsement: (Check back often, as this listing of approvals is expected to expand)

NVIC Assessments

Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circulars (NVIC) provide detailed guidance about the enforcement or compliance with a certain federal marine safety regulations and Coast Guard marine safety programs. Click here to learn move about NVICs.

The Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular (NVIC) assessments listed below are specifically related to training and experience certification of applicants as is required for Standard of Training Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) credentials. A US Navy E5 or above who is approved by the commanding officer to sign off on equivalent level assessments, i.e. – Navy PQS, may sign off the NVIC STCW assessments for an applicant pursuing STCW credentials.

The STCW NVICs included in this section contain examples of forms showing the PQS and Navy training references in parenthesis for an applicant and the qualified assessor to reference. Below the examples are links to blank NVIC forms that you can print as the official source document, to be initialed and signed by the assessor in the appropriate spaces, and then submitted in the application package to the National Maritime Center. Click the items below to view the applicable links for the PDF files related to your Navy Rating and related STCW.

Record of Assessment for STCW – Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (RFPNW)
- NVIC_06_14 RFPNW for Navy BM S-PACT (Example with Navy training references)
- NVIC_06_14 RFPNW Assessment Form (Blank)
Record of Assessment for STCW – Rating Forming Part of an Engineering Watch (RFPEW)
Record of Assessment for STCW – Officer in Charge of a Navigation Watch (OICNW)
- NVIC_12_14 OICNW Assessment Form (Blank)
Record of Assessment for STCW – Officer in Charge of an Engineering Watch (OICEW)
- NVIC_17_14 OICEW for Navy EE SWO (Example with Navy training references)
- NVIC_17_14 OICEW Assessment Form (Blank)
Record of Assessment for STCW – Able Seafarer - Deck
- NVIC_14_14 STCW Able Seafarer - Deck Assesment Form (Blank)
Record of Assessment for STCW – Able Seafarer - Engine
- NVIC_18_14_STCW_Able Seafarer - Engine for Navy EE (Example with Navy Training references)
- NVIC_18_14_STCW_Able Seafarer - Deck Assessment Form (Blank)

How to Apply for a Credential

Step 1: General Items
- Obtain a TWIC card
  Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC) is a common identification credential used by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), containing biometrics of the cardholder.
- Drug Testing
  Each USCG credential has drug testing requirements. See the USCG National Maritime Center website for specific information. Members can also consider individualizing this sample Drug Testing Participation letter which will be acceptable to the National Maritime Center reviewers. If using the Drug Testing Participation letter format, it must be dated within 180-days of the application. Reservists must have been on active duty for at least 60-days of the previous 180-days.
Step 2: Prepare Sea Service Letter

Navy Sailors can use the US Navy Vessel Information document and their own sea service record to complete the sea service letter requirement for inclusion in the application package. Sailors might find it helpful to refer to these blank sample letters or this complete Navy sample letter as they complete their sea service letter.
Step 3: Submit an Application
On the USCG National Maritime Center (NMC) website follow the instructions for E-mail Submission of Merchant Mariner Credential Applications. NOTE: Final submissions must be completed in person at a regional exam center.
Step 4: Application in Transit Monitor Status
You can check the status of your application. Statuses are updated daily.
Step 5: Application Review/Receipt of Credential
Safety and Suitability, Medical, and Professional Qualification application reviews are completed by TSA and NMC personnel.

For more detailed information on the application process go to the Mariner Credential Application Process website or follow the instructions in the Obtaining a Merchant Mariner Credential brochure.

For more detailed information on mariner credentialing, go to the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 46, Chapter 1, Subchapter B, Part 10 "Licensing of Maritime Personnel". Review both Chapter 1 Part 10 for Licensing of Maritime Personnel, and Chapter 1, Part 12 for Certification of Seamen for additional guidance on how to obtain a USCG credential.

Important Links

General Information on Mariner Credentialing - US Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Licensing and Documentation
Applicability of Military Service Towards Merchant Mariner’s Documents - USCG Marine Safety Manual, Chapter 2
Other General Information - The following links are helpful in obtaining additional information on Merchant Marine Examinations/Assessments, Merchant Marine Documentation, Merchant Marine/STCW Credentialing, and Merchant Marine Credential Fees:
- Guide for Administration of Merchant Marine Examinations (Deck and Engineering Guide)
- Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) & STCW Certifications for Unlicensed Personnel
- Merchant Marine Credential Fees
- Frequently Asked Questions
- U.S. Navy Vessel Information - Navy Sailors can reference this chart for details on Ship Type, Name, Hull number, Ship Class, GRI ITC Tonnage, GRT Tonnage, Horsepower, and Propulsion Type.
- Sea Service Letter - Navy Sailors can use the Navy Vessel Information link above to complete the sea service letter requirement.
Civilian Mariner Career Information - For more information on mariner careers and employment opportunities in either government, civilian mariner service or the Merchant Marine Service see the Civilian Mariner Careers tab in the Related Occupations section on this page.

Related Civilian Occupations

The following civilian occupations are similar to the duties performed by 623X - Engineering/Repair Specialty LDO. These occupations may require additional education, training or experience. For more information about these occupations, click on the civilian occupation below.

For more supervisory and managerial positions, please refer to the LEADER - Dept Head/Division Officer page or the LEADER - Commanding Officer/Executive Officer/Officer in Charge page. To search for related civilian job opportunities, go to the Veteran's Employment Center.

Civilian Job	Duties Matched	Bright Outlook	Registered Apprenticeship	Local Salary Info
First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers	Some			find local salary
First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers	Some			find local salary
General and Operations Managers	Most	Bright Outlook	Apprenticeship	find local salary
Industrial Production Managers	Most		Apprenticeship	find local salary
Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks	Some		Apprenticeship	find local salary
Purchasing Managers	Some			find local salary
Ship Engineers	Some			find local salary

Related Federal Occupations

The following federal occupations are similar to 623X - Engineering/Repair Specialty LDO. These occupations may require additional education, training or experience. For more information about these occupations, click on the federal occupation below.

Related Military Sealift Command Occupations

The following Military Sealift Command jobs are similar to 623X - Engineering/Repair Specialty LDO. For more information, click on the links below.

For information on how to attain a United States Coast Guard (USCG) credential through the National Maritime Center (NMC), see the USCG Licenses General Information tab in the Related Credentials section of this page.

Related NOBCs

The following Navy Officer Billet Codes (NOBC) are associated with 623X - Engineering/Repair Specialty LDO. For more information, click on the links below.

Other Career Considerations

A wide range of civilian job opportunities is available within the private and public sectors that align with 623X - Engineering/Repair Specialty LDO military training and experience. More information about these opportunities and other considerations concerning occupations related to 623X - Engineering/Repair Specialty LDO can be found below.

Troops to Teachers

An additional resource for transitioning to a teaching career is the Troops to Teachers program. The Troops to Teachers program is a national program which provides support services to prepare military personnel for a career in teaching. Service members with a baccalaureate degree or higher are eligible to begin the traditional teaching certification process, however, Service members without a degree may also qualify to become a vocational/technical teacher. Click here for more information about the Troops to Teachers program.

COOL may be able to assist with funding state licensure on a case by case basis. The following conditions should apply:

Enlisted Navy Reservists (SELRES) may get a state license funded based on their Navy or civilian occupation, earned academic degree or a semester course. The state license must have relevancy to a Navy occupation or collateral duty.
Enlisted personnel may get a state/county or municipality certification/license funded if the Sailor is separating or retiring in the state in which he/she desires the license. This will be a onetime funding opportunity based on their Navy or civilian occupation, earned academic degree or a semester course. Renewals are authorized 60 days prior to their discharge/separation. The license must have relevancy to a Navy occupation or collateral duty. Enlisted Sailor should make contact with Navy COOL prior to 18 months remaining on their soft/hard EAOS due to the complicated funding processes of some states. Certification/license must be completed 60 days prior to separation.
For each of the above opportunities, the Sailor must contact Navy COOL prior to submitting a voucher request for licensure funding coordination.

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Civilian Mariner Careers

Active Duty and Reserve U.S. military personnel can explore the wide range of post-service career opportunities for civilian mariners within the maritime industry. The two primary employment sectors for civilian mariners are government and commercial industry, described below in the "Military Sealift Command (MSC)" section and the "Merchant Marine Industry" section. For detailed information about mariner careers, United States Coast Guard (USCG) credentialing requirements, and how to apply for USCG credentials through the National Maritime Center (NMC), U.S. Navy personnel can review the Blueprint to Mariner document to learn about funding opportunties. U.S. Army personnel should contact the U.S. Army Transportation School, Maritime and Intermodal Training Department (MQD) in Buildling 461, Ft Eustis, VA or call 757-878-6337 for more information.

For personalized information on Merchant Mariner credentials that may be attainable or nearly attainable based on your specific military experience and how to navigate the process, visit the Mil-2-Mariner (M2M) Tool on the MilGears website. The M2M Tool analyzes your entries and uploaded service records for creditable sea service, training and assessments that you completed during your military service and compares your results against the standard for an original or upgraded Merchant Mariner Credential to determine which credentials you may be able to pursue based on your specific military experience.

Direct-Hire Authority for Advancing Military to Mariner with the Department of Defense

The Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness signed a memorandum on 8 October 2020 providing and delegating to military departments, agencies, and field activities, direct-hire authority to employ qualified separated members of the uniformed Services with valid merchant mariner licenses or sea service experience in support of United States national maritime needs.

This direct-hire authority enables the DoD to recruit and appoint separated members of the uniformed Services who are qualified candidates without applying competitive rating and ranking procedures. Qualified candidates are individuals who:

Possess a valid USCG Merchant Marine Credential
Meet the minimum standards for the position as published
Meet any selection placement factors and/or competencies identified as necessary for appointment to the position

Service members may be directly selected without a competitive job interview process. For more information see the Direct-Hire Authority for Advancing Military to Mariner within the DoD document.

For more information about Federal direct-hire policy, data, and oversight, please refer to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Hiring Information web page.

To evaluate your sea service for Merchant Marine credential eligibility, see the MilGears Mil-2-Mariner Tool.

Military Sealift Command (MSC)

One way to continue your service to your nation is through the US Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC). As an MSC civil service mariner, you join the premier provider of ocean transportation for the Department of Defense which operates over 100 non-combatant, civilian-crewed ships in support of the US Navy, deployed US forces, and coalition partners around the world. Learn more about Military Sealift Command at the "About MSC" page on their website. You can see which MSC occupations most closely relate to your military occupation in the MSC tab in the Related Occupations section on this page.

Merchant Marine Industry

Another way to serve as a civilian mariner outside of government service is as a US Merchant Marine. The merchant mariner industry consists of privately-owned, US registered merchant ships and a variety of towing, offshore supply, and passenger vessels which provide waterborne transportation for passengers and cargoes moving in domestic and international commerce. Primary shipboard employment categories include deep sea, Great Lakes, towing and barges, inland and coastal waters, passenger vessels, and offshore and mineral operations. Other areas of employment in the maritime industry include shipbuilding and repair, longshoring (cargo handling), port terminal administration, and intermodal logistics.

General information about the maritime industry can be found in the Maritime Careers Brochure and the Maritime Careers Resources Guide. The Maritime Industry website also includes numerous informative links to maritime companies, schools, and seaports.

In Demand Jobs in the Mariner Industry

Specific Deck functions currently in demand include:

Electronics Technician (ET)
An electronics technician is responsible for the installation, maintenance, repair and management of sophisticated electronic equipment, including:
- command and control systems;
- shipboard weapons;
- guidance and fire-control systems;
- communications receivers and transmitters;
- data and voice encryption equipment;
- navigation and search radar;
- tactical electronic detection systems;
- and electronic navigation equipment.
For applicable entry-level credential checklist information, see the USCG National Maritime Center website. Go to the "Renewal/Entry/Duplicate" tab and select "National Entry Level Ratings" from the drop-down.
Storekeeper
Storekeepers are responsible for:
- performing all supply department functions assigned;
- directives and program specific directives;
- maintenance records;
- correspondence, reports, and returns;
- material identification for both government and commercial items;
- material expenditures, shipments, and surveys;
- processing Material Requirements External (MRE) transactions, which include logging onto the data system, processing customer requirements, issuing for own ship's use and completing transactions via warehouse processing.
For applicable entry-level credential checklist information, see the USCG National Maritime Center website. Go to the "Renewal/Entry/Duplicate" tab and select "National Entry Level Ratings" from the drop-down.
Medical
Medical Department Representatives (MDR) are:
- responsible for the health of all embarked personnel aboard the vessel;
- act as the vessel’s agent in all aspects of health, including health care, preventative medicine, environmental health, occupational health, and medical administration;
- trained as a Professional Nurse, Physician Assistant, or Hospital Corpsman with IDC Endorsement.
For the MDR license checklist information, see the USCG National Maritime Center website. Go to the "Deck Officers" tab and select "National Staff Officers" in the "National Officer Endorsements (licensed) for Deck" drop-down.
Culinary Professionals
Culinary professionals are responsible for:
- efficient operation of the galley/kitchen;
- progressive cooking techniques, menu development, and healthy recipe preparation;
- using the Armed Forces Recipe Service and local recipes and instructions;
- safely operating various food service equipment and instruments;
- following health and sanitation protocols associated with food service storing, use of leftovers and unused portions, thawing frozen foods, and other food safety procedures;
- maintaining inventory of galley equipment and utensils, and reporting discrepancies.
For applicable entry-level credential checklist information, see the USCG National Maritime Center website. Go to the "Renewal/Entry/Duplicate" tab and select "National Entry Level Ratings" from the dropdown.

Merchant Mariner Credentialing Information

Employment in the maritime industry as either a Military Sealift Command civil service mariner (CIVMAR) or a merchant mariner requires credentialing from the US Coast Guard through the National Maritime Center. Enlisted Active Duty and Reserve US Navy personnel in eligible ratings may have the credentialing fees and exams funded via Navy COOL. See the USCG Credentialing tab in the Related Credentials section of this page for more details about how to attain USCG credentials related to your Navy Rating or Collateral Duty. To evaluate your sea service for Merchant Marine credential eligibility, see the MilGears Mil-2-Mariner (M2M) Tool.

Additional Career Opportunities

There are numerous other good sources of information about career opportunities within the Military Sealift Command (MSC) and the US Merchant Marine industry. You can learn more at the following links:

Military to Mariner page maintained by the United States Maritime Administration (MARAD)
There are also career opportunities available for prior military as civilian mariners in the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Voluntary Education

In addition to obtaining certifications in your field, voluntary education is another way to enhance job performance. Options for voluntary education include:

Navy College Program
VOLED Assistance Center
VOLED Region Advisors
Unofficial JST Transcript showing recommended American Council on Education (ACE) college credit recommendations for this LDO designator can be found on the associated source rating pages under the "Voluntary Education" tab.
The Naval Postgraduate School (NPS)
Navy War College (NWC)
Army War College
The National War College
Command and General Staff College
USAF Air University Air Command and Staff College

For help in making informed choices on schools, education programs, and using tuition assistance, see:

Tuition Assistance (TA) DECIDE

You can use the Engage My Career Tool on MilGears to enter personalized information to learn about degree programs related to your training and experience and next steps towards pursuing a degree.

COLLATERAL DUTY / OUT OF RATE ASSIGNMENTS

Collateral Duty / Out of Rate Assignments

Navy collateral duties/out of rate assignments play a vital role in the day-to-day operations and duties that Officers and Enlisted Sailors perform. Certifications and licenses are also available in these collateral duties/out of rate assignments, so please go to the Collateral Duty/Out of Rate Assignments search feature (under the Navigator) and explore more opportunities to get certified.

ACADEMIC DEGREES
PRIOR RATE OR DESIGNATOR
OFF-DUTY OR COMMAND-SPONSORED TRAINING
NAVY RESERVISTS
PRIOR OTHER-SERVICE OCCUPATION
CREDENTIALS EARNED & MAINTAINED PRIOR TO JOINING THE NAVY

Opportunities Related to Academic Degrees

Out of rate or designator requests for exam funding for credentials related to an earned academic degree or a semester course may also be funded if it can be directly related to an industry certification or state license.

For example, if you have a degree in Human Resources but are serving as a Culinary Specialist, you can get funding for a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification.

If the completed degree is not in the Sailor's Joint Service Transcript (JST), the Sailor must provide proof of completion with the Voucher Request Form, OPNAV 1500/57 for funding approval. The requested credential must be included on the Navy COOL website, and the Sailor must meet all other eligibility requirements.

As with any credential, you must meet all other eligibility criteria and the certification or license vendors' requirements.

Opportunities for Prior Rate or Designator Sailors

If you have cross-rated or redesignated, you now are eligible for certifications and licenses mapped to your prior rating or designator. The “Navy Bucks” icon on the Navy COOL page for your previous position/rate indicates which certifications and licenses may be funded.

As with any credential, you must meet all other eligibility criteria and the certification or license vendors' requirements.

Opportunities Related to Off-Duty or Command-Sponsored Training

If you can document that you have completed an on- or off-duty training course that fully prepares you for a civilian certification or license, you may now be eligible to have the credential exam funded.

For example, if you took a Command-sponsored Emergency Medical Technician course, you may be eligible for funding for an EMT Basic credential.

The requested credential must appear on Navy COOL, although it does not need to show the Navy Bucks icon to be funded.

College course completion must be annotated in your Joint Service Transcript. Formal off-duty or command-sponsored training should be visible in your Electronic Training Jacket (ETJ). In lieu of an ETJ entry (where training cannot be entered into the ETJ) you will need to submit some form of, proof of completion (a certificate of completion from the course/training is sufficient). If neither of the previously mentioned methods of validating proof of completion are available, then a command correspondence (such as a command letter, memo, or PG-13 form) describing the training along with the OPNAV 1500/57 Professional Certification and Licensing Voucher Request (COOL Voucher Request Form).

As with any credential, you must meet all other eligibility criteria and the certification or license vendors' requirements.

Opportunities for Navy Reservists

If you are a Navy Reservist, officer or enlisted, you may now be eligible for funding for credentials related to your civilian occupation. The certification or license must have relevance to the needs of the Navy, and must appear on Navy COOL, although it does not need to show the Navy Bucks icon to be funded.

To validate your civilian occupation, you will need a screen shot from Navy Standard Integrated Personnel System (NSIPS) showing the Civilian Occupational Code. Please send the NSIPS screenshot with your OPNAV 1500/57 Professional Certification and Licensing Voucher Request (COOL Voucher Request Form).

In lieu of NSIPS documentation you may also submit a command endorsed and executed NAVPERS 1070/613 (PG-13) Administrative Remarks form noting your civilian occupation along with your OPNAV 1500/57 Professional Certification and Licensing Voucher Request (COOL Voucher Request Form). You must sign the PG-13.

As with any credential, you must meet all other eligibility criteria and the certification or license vendors' requirements.

Prior Other-Service Occupation

If you are Navy (Active or Reserve), you may now be eligible for funding for credentials related to prior other-Service (Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard) occupation. The certification or license must have relevance to the needs of the Navy, and must appear on Navy COOL, although it does not need to show the Navy Bucks Navy Bucks icon icon to be funded.

To validate your prior other-Service occupation, you will need to provide Navy COOL with a document (e.g. DD-214; or Military Service School completion certificate; or other document) showing your other-Service occupation. Please send the document (scanned & emailed) with your OPNAV 1500/57 Professional Certification and Licensing Voucher Request (COOL Voucher Request Form).

As with any credential, you must meet all other eligibility criteria and the certification or license vendors' requirements.

Credentials Earned & Maintained Prior to Joining the Navy

If you are Navy (Active or Reserve), you may now be eligible for funding for credentials that were earned, and maintained, prior to entering the Navy. The certification or license must have relevance to the needs of the Navy, and must appear on Navy COOL, although it does not need to show the Navy Bucks Navy Bucks icon icon to be funded.

To validate your earned & maintained credential, you will need to provide Navy COOL with a scanned or emailed document (e.g. credential certificate document, screenshot from your credential dashboard, digital badge, etc…) showing the credential earned and maintained. Please send the document (scanned & emailed) with your OPNAV 1500/57 Professional Certification and Licensing Voucher Request (COOL Voucher Request Form).

As with any credential, you must meet all other eligibility criteria and the certification or license vendors' requirements.