I'm curious about the qualifications needed for jobs with the Military Sealift Command. Are there specific certifications or degrees required for most positions, or does it vary quite a bit depending on the role?
The qualifications for Military Sealift Command (MSC) jobs can indeed vary significantly based on the specific role. MSC, a civilian branch of the U.S. Navy, employs professionals in a broad variety of areas including seamanship, logistics, medical services, communications, and many more.
For deck department positions like Ordinary Seaman or Able Seaman, for instance, you often need some form of merchant mariner credential (MMC) provided by the U.S. Coast Guard. This includes passing a physical examination, a drug test, and a background check. While no specific degree is required for these roles, sea service experience can be beneficial.
On the other hand, for engine department positions including licensed engineers, the requirements can be more stringent. A bachelor's degree in marine engineering or a similar field can be useful, and extensive experience, as well as various certifications associated with ship engines, may also be required.
MSC also typically requires its employees to have a Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC) which involves a security threat assessment performed by the Transportation Security Administration. This is applicable for all positions whether seagoing or shore-based.
Additionally, civilian mariners also need to meet specific physical and medical requirements to meet safety standards on board a ship. This can include having unimpaired hearing and vision (corrective lenses are usually acceptable), no chronic diseases that could potentially be exacerbated by shipboard conditions, and overall physical fitness adequate to handle the rigors of life at sea.
As you can see, it truly depends on the specific role in question. It's always advisable to look into the detailed job postings for each position on MSC's official website to understand what qualifications are required for the roles you're interested in. Remember that along with qualifications, demonstrating adaptability, resilience, and a readiness to work under challenging conditions can make your application more appealing for these seagoing positions.
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