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Civilian Mariner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CACI International Inc.

NY · On-site

$58 - $115.90/hr

Review PMS 525 WAF/Tag-Out instruction for compatibility with typical commercial mariner practicesYou'll Bring These Qualifications:* 2+ years experience working as a licensed civilian mariner*

CACI

Post Delivery Operations Consultant

Oldsmar, FL · On-site

$58K - $115K/yr

... licensed civilian mariner Experience performing maintenance on oceangoing vessels Familiar with Military Sealift Command operating requirements and environment USCG Licensed Engineer Bachelor ...

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Civilian Mariner information

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$27.5K

$56.7K

$60.5K

How much do civilian mariner jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 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 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.

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.

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 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.

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 training programs or apprenticeships. They must also pass medical examinations and background checks, and may need to obtain a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) from the U.S. Coast Guard or equivalent licensing depending on the country. Skills in navigation, safety procedures, and vessel operations are essential for this career.
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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 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% 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 14 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: