ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Civilian Mariner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Commander, Navy Installations Command

$35.90 - $41.99/hr

... to a civilian position is subject to the provisions of 5 United States Code 3326. * Males born ... Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Mate of Towing Vessels-Inland with ...

Commander, Navy Installations Command

$35.90 - $41.99/hr

... to a civilian position is subject to the provisions of 5 United States Code 3326. * Males born ... Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Mate of Towing Vessels-Inland with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCivilian Mariner Jobs

Civilian Mariner information

See salary details

$27.5K

$56.7K

$60.5K

How much do civilian mariner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for civilian mariner in the United States is $56,723.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $59,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a civilian mariner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Civilian Mariner, you need a solid understanding of maritime operations, navigation, safety protocols, and often a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) or equivalent certification. Familiarity with shipboard technology, radar, GPS navigation systems, and safety equipment is typically required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for working efficiently in diverse crews and challenging environments. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of vessels in both routine and emergency situations.

What are some common challenges faced by civilian mariners working on commercial vessels?

Civilian Mariners often encounter challenges such as adapting to extended periods away from home, working in confined spaces, and managing shift work that can disrupt normal sleep patterns. They must also be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions and the need to respond quickly to emergencies at sea. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as mariners regularly collaborate with crew members from diverse backgrounds to ensure safe and efficient vessel operations.

How to become a civilian merchant mariner?

To become a civilian merchant mariner, individuals typically need to obtain relevant maritime certifications such as the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), and gain experience through maritime training programs or apprenticeships. A valid medical certificate and background check are also required, and mariners often start in entry-level positions to accumulate sea time and advance their careers.

What is the difference between Civilian Mariner vs Merchant Mariner?

AspectCivilian MarinerMerchant Mariner
Required CertificationsSTCW certifications, CPR, first aidSTCW certifications, Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)
Work EnvironmentCommercial ships, cargo vessels, passenger shipsCommercial ships, cargo vessels, passenger ships
Employer & IndustryPrivate shipping companies, cruise linesPrivate shipping companies, cruise lines, freight carriers

Both Civilian Mariners and Merchant Mariners work in the maritime industry, often on similar vessels and requiring comparable certifications. The main difference lies in terminology and credentialing, with Merchant Mariner being the official credential issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. Civilian Mariner is a broader term often used interchangeably but may not specify official certification. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right credentials and employment opportunities in the maritime sector.

What is a civilian mariner?

Civilian mariners, also known as CIVMARs, are civilian crew members who operate and maintain ships for government agencies, most commonly the U.S. Military Sealift Command. Unlike enlisted Navy personnel, civilian mariners are not members of the armed forces, but they perform essential tasks such as navigation, engineering, and logistics support aboard government-owned vessels. Their work ensures the safe and efficient transportation of military cargo, supplies, and personnel around the world. Civilian mariners typically hold positions such as deck officers, engineers, cooks, and other support roles, and they often spend extended periods at sea.
More about Civilian Mariner jobs
What job categories do people searching Civilian Mariner jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Civilian Mariner jobs are:
Civilian Mariner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Civilian Mariner job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,723 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Fleet Operations Instructor

Anchor Innovation, Inc.

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Description:

Operations Instructor

Description

Operations Instructor

Military Sealift Command (MSC) Underway Replenishment Training Center (MUTC)

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Anchor Innovation is seeking Operations Instructors to support the Military Sealift Command (MSC) fleet training mission. The Contractor shall maintain a minimum of five (5) Operations Instructors capable of teaching the Basic, Mid-Level, and Advanced Operations courses, DRAKE/JCREW, and Visual Information.

Instructors must have experience training in a military and/or civilian mariner environment. The primary duty location is MSC/MUTC/TCHR Government operated or contracted training facilities in Hampton Roads, Virginia.

The Advanced Operations Course (AOC) provides an overview of USN fleet operations and how MSC's interaction with the Navy is critical to mission accomplishment. The 32-hour AOC is taught at the Secret level and updates students on the latest fleet tactics, techniques, and procedures, including operations in a contested environment.


Primary Responsibilities

Teach, maintain, and update the Basic, Mid-Level, and Advanced Operations courses.

Instruct DRAKE/JCREW and Visual Information courses.

Serve as a subject matter expert on all material and equipment taught in Operations training courses, Visual Information, and DRAKE/JCREW courses upon assignment.

Instruct the following Advanced Operations Course (AOC) subject areas:

  • Operational Orders and Procedures
  • Operational Reports (Defense Readiness Reporting System – DRRS, and Casualty Reports – CASREPs)
  • Warfare Area Review
  • Operations in a Contested Environment
  • Intelligence Threat Overview
  • Emissions Control (EMCON)
  • Operational Risk Management (with emphasis on MSC recent mishaps/near-mishaps)
  • Tactical CHAT
  • Naval Messages
  • Collaboration at Sea
  • Weather
  • Instruct courses at MSC/MUTC/TCHR Government operated or contracted training facilities in Hampton Roads (primary duty location).
  • Instruct Basic Operations, Visual Information, and DRAKE/JCREW courses in San Diego, CA and onboard MSC GOGO, GOCO, and Maritime Administration (MARAD) ships worldwide.
  • Instruct Advanced Operations courses at Little Creek, VA; Norfolk, VA; FT Eustis, VA; or San Diego, CA at a secure facility.
  • Evaluate student performance and provide feedback based on real-world operational experience.
  • Assist with curriculum updates and continuous improvement efforts to ensure training remains aligned with fleet requirements.

Required Qualifications

  • Must have experience training in a military and/or civilian mariner environment.
  • Must meet one of the following three education and experience pathways:
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Operations, Education, or Management, plus six (6) years with U.S. Navy Department Head Tactical Action Officer (TAO) experience or; Bachelor’s Degree in a Maritime discipline, plus six (6) years of experience as a licensed Merchant Mariner Deck Officer, 2nd Officer or higher, with shipboard operations experience or;
  • Must be a subject matter expert on all course material.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a SECRET security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

o Prior experience as Navy Surface Warfare Officer with Combat Information Center (CIC) Watch Officer or Tactical Action Officer (TAO) experience.

  • MSC fleet operations or maritime training programs experience.
  • Experience instructing or developing course content for operational readiness training.
  • Familiarity with MSC GOGO, GOCO, or MARAD vessel operations.

Travel Requirements

The primary duty location for this position is Hampton Roads, VA, at MSC/MUTC/TCHR Government operated or contracted training facilities.

Instructors are required to travel to San Diego, CA to instruct Basic Operations, Visual Information, and DRAKE/JCREW courses. Instructors will also instruct aboard MSC GOGO, GOCO, and Maritime Administration (MARAD) ships around the world as mission requirements dictate.

Advanced Operations course instruction occurs at Little Creek, VA; Norfolk, VA; FT Eustis, VA; or San Diego, CA at a secure facility. Candidates must be willing and able to travel as mission requirements dictate, including international and shipboard assignments.

Why Anchor Innovation

Anchor Innovation supports critical maritime readiness and logistics missions across the Navy and Military Sealift Command enterprise. Our instructors work directly with the mariners and operators responsible for sustaining global fleet operations. This position offers the opportunity to remain connected to operational maritime missions, contribute directly to fleet readiness, and help shape the next generation of MSC operational professionals.

Requirements: