Do I need seagoing experience to join MSC?
No. Sea duty in your background may earn you better pay and a higher position, but it’s not a requirement for employment. Please review our Now Hiring page to learn more about our open positions.

What if I have good technical job experience, but no sea time?
Military Sealift Command wants qualified workers as well as qualified mariners. Your rating and pay scale will be higher if you have proven skills and experience, whether they were earned on shore or at sea. You may have to sail in an entry level position for 6-12 months to gain seagoing experience. Once complete you may apply to the U.S. Coast Guard for an advanced endorsement.

How do I get a Merchant Mariner's Document?
You can apply for one at any of the 17 Regional Examination Centers of the U.S. Coast Guard. Click on the link for a list of Coast Guard Regional Exam Center locations.

Where can I get my physical and drug test for the MMD?
The U.S. Coast Guard requires a general physical and specific drug test prior to issue of an MMD for any rating. Guidelines are provided in the USCG Merchant Mariner Document Application Package.

After getting the MMD and applying for an MSC position, then what?
If we select you for an opening for which you qualify, we'll contact you and ask you to take the following steps:

• First, we'll arrange a medical screening and drug test at our cost to be performed near your home.
• After passing these tests, you’ll be eligible for official processing at the Military Sealift Fleet Support Command in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Travel to Virginia Beach is your expense and will not be reimbursed. Once you show up, you'll start to earn pay and benefits.
• Upon completion of new employee orientation (4 days), all newly hired CIVMARs attend mandatory training sessions for 3-4 weeks at the MSC training facility in Freehold, New Jersey. If you've had previous comparable training, you may not need to attend again.

What is a CIVMAR?
A civilian mariner (CIVMAR) is a Federal government employee who works and sails on U.S. flagged Military Sealift Command vessels.

Is Military Sealift Command part of the Navy?
Yes, but because MSC ships are operated by civilian mariners, the personnel serving aboard our ships are not subject to the same military rules and regulations as Navy personnel.

What’s the difference between MSC and the regular U.S. Merchant Marine?
There are a few differences. MSC CIVMARs work for the Federal government; regular merchant mariners work for private shipping companies. We supply the Navy; commercial merchant mariners most often supply private industry.

What are the basic requirements to join MSC?
Applicants must be U.S. citizens at least 18 years of age, fluent in English, and have a current U.S. passport (with at least seven months before expiration). Applicants must also have a valid Merchant Mariner’s Document, issued by the U.S. Coast Guard, with at least one year of eligibility remaining on it before it is due for renewal.

How do I get hired?
First, complete and submit a Request for Information form. After completion of the IRF, all applicants must then fill out and mail in an official application package. All those who apply for employment are screened for all necessary paperwork, then they are added to a selection list for the open position for which they are applying. If you’re selected, you’ll be called and offered employment. We’ll give you a reporting date and discuss with you some of the specific job duties you’ll have. (All applicants applying for employment do not necessarily get hired. Veteran’s preference is a factor in the hiring decision.)

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