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Merchant Marine Security Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

MARINE SURVEYOR

Norfolk, VA · On-site +1

$75K - $98K/yr

You will be required to obtain and maintain an interim and/or final security clearance prior to ... Coast Guard licensed marine engineer in the merchant marine. * For GS-11 (or equivalent ...

Maintain awareness of security concerns and report suspicious behavior or violations immediately ... Required to obtain a Merchant Marine Credential (MMC) with AB or QMED endorsement within two (2) ...

Ferry Crewmember

Surry, VA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Maintain awareness of security concerns and report suspicious behavior or violations immediately ... Required to obtain a Merchant Marine Credential (MMC) with AB or QMED endorsement within two (2) ...

Maintain awareness of security concerns and report suspicious behavior or violations immediately ... Required to obtain a Merchant Marine Credential (MMC) with AB or QMED endorsement within two (2) ...

Ferry Crewmember

Surry, VA · On-site

$18/hr

Be alert to security violations and suspicious behavior * Respond appropriately to emergency ... Merchant Marine Credentials, any endorsement Other Requirements: * References and verification of ...

$32 - $45/hr

Merchant Marine Academy * Military Class A or C Schools Security Clearance * Must be a U.S. Citizen and will be subject to a security investigation * Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Secret ...

Merchant Marine Academy * Military Class A or C Schools Security Clearance * Must be a U.S. Citizen and will be subject to a security investigation * Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Secret ...

Merchant Marine Academy * Military Class A or C Schools Security Clearance * Must be a U.S. Citizen and will be subject to a security investigation * Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Secret ...

Merchant Marine Academy * Military Class A or C Schools Security Clearance * Must be a U.S. Citizen and will be subject to a security investigation * Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Secret ...

The successful candidate will also support vessel security, emergency response, regulatory ... Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) required Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC ...

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Merchant Marine Security information

What is a merchant marine security?

A Merchant Marine Security job involves protecting vessels, crew members, and cargo from threats such as piracy, terrorism, and theft. Security personnel enforce safety protocols, monitor surveillance systems, conduct inspections, and respond to emergencies. They work under international maritime laws and may collaborate with law enforcement or military forces. Strong situational awareness, physical fitness, and knowledge of security procedures are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in merchant marine security?

To thrive as a Merchant Marine Security professional, you need knowledge of maritime security protocols, emergency response procedures, and basic seamanship, often supported by certifications like STCW and security training such as the Vessel Security Officer (VSO) endorsement. Familiarity with access control systems, surveillance equipment, and incident reporting software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help individuals excel in this field. These capabilities ensure the safety of crew and cargo, support regulatory compliance, and foster a secure seafaring environment.

What are some typical challenges faced by merchant marine security personnel while working onboard ships?

Merchant Marine Security professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting to varying threat levels in international waters and responding quickly to potential security breaches. Working within diverse crews and limited resources, they must maintain constant vigilance, enforce security protocols, and manage incidents ranging from unauthorized access to safety drills. The confined, at-sea environment means teamwork and clear communication are crucial for resolving issues effectively. Adapting to changing regulations and continuous training are also integral to staying prepared for new risks.

How do you get into merchant marine security?

To enter merchant marine security, candidates typically need to obtain relevant maritime security training and certifications such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Maritime Security Awareness or Vessel Security Officer (VSO) credentials. Prior experience in maritime operations, security, or law enforcement can also be beneficial, along with a valid seafarer's medical certificate and background check.

Is merchant marine security a good career?

Merchant marine security involves protecting cargo ships and maritime assets, requiring knowledge of security protocols and maritime regulations. It can offer stable employment, opportunities for advancement, and work in international environments, often with specialized training and certifications. The career demands physical fitness, vigilance, and the ability to work long hours at sea.

What job categories do people searching Merchant Marine Security jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Merchant Marine Security jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Merchant Marine Security jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Merchant Marine Security job openings:

Infographic showing various Merchant Marine Security job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

MARINE SURVEYOR with Security Clearance

Department of Defense

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 539 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Duties * You will manage the ships life cycle plan by planning, directing and coordinating the maintenance and repair activities requiring industrial assistance for assigned ships. * You will develop and review plans, work items and cost estimates for maintenance and repair and ship alteration work for assigned ships. * You will monitor contractor performance, identify deficiencies and initiate actions to correct any maintenance and operational deficiencies and rectify contractor performance. * You will regularly conduct ship checks to verify the work item technical requirements. * You will regularly work with the ship's force to troubleshoot systems and technically analyze causes of casualties. * You will support field inspections of shipyards to determine maintenance capabilities in advance of ship maintenance contract awards. * You will ensure that assigned ships are in full compliance with requirements of cognizant regulatory bodies, and the ships conform to required standards. Requirements Conditions of employment * Must be a US Citizen. * Must be determined suitable for federal employment. * Must participate in the direct deposit pay program. * New employees to the Department of the Navy will be required to successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit e-verify.gov * Within the Department of Defense (DoD), the appointment of retired military members within 180 days immediately following retirement date to a civilian position is subject to the provisions of 5 United States Code 3326. * Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service. * You will be required to obtain and maintain an interim and/or final security clearance prior to entrance on duty. Failure to obtain and maintain the required level of clearance may result in the withdrawal of a job offer or removal. * This position may require travel from normal duty station to CONUS and OCONUS and may include remote or isolated sites. You must be able to travel on military and commercial aircraft for extended periods of time. * You will be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. Passport. * This is a Mission Essential position. You will be required to ensure organization or facility continuity of operations and/or completion of tasks that are considered essential to the mission designated by a local or command decision. * Overtime may be required. * Shipyard and shipboard work is a requirement of the position where the incumbent may be required to climb, crawl, and bend to accomplish shipboard inspections. Qualifications Basic Requirements This series covers technical positions supervising, leading, or performing work involving surveying Government-owned and/or operated vessels, or privately-owned and operated merchant vessels, to determine their condition and the extent of work necessary for the vessels and their components to meet specified requirements. The work requires applying a practical knowledge of: * preparing specifications, including estimates of labor and material costs, to cover work determined to be necessary as a result of surveys; and * inspecting and accepting the work accomplished to place the vessel in the condition specified. Experience Requirements Specialized Experience (for all positions): per OPM Applicants must have had 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression. Specialized experience is responsible work in the maintenance and repair of ocean-going vessels that demonstrated the ability to survey and inspect such vessels for the purposes of classification, appraisal, determination of general conditions and fitness for operation, and determination of the extent of damage sustained and type and cost of repairs and reconditioning required. This experience may have been gained in marine surveying or other work such as: * Seagoing experience as a U.S. Coast Guard licensed marine engineer in the merchant marine. * For GS-11 (or equivalent), applicants must have sailed under a 2nd Assistant license for at least 1 year. * For GS-12 (or equivalent), applicants must have sailed under a 1st Assistant license for at least 1 year. * Experience in a ship repair yard or in the engineering department of a steamship company serving in positions such as marine superintendent or port engineer. Specialized Experience (for all positions): per Agency GS-12: In addition to the Basic Requirements for this position, your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-11 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: * Experience interpreting commercial regulatory bodies such as the American Bureau of Shipping, United States Coast Guard, American Petroleum Institute, America Society of Testing Materials, and MARPOL requirements and their standards, policies and procedures as they apply to the operation and maintenance of a combined commercial and military fleet of ships. * Experience supporting the alteration, improvement, maintenance and repair of assigned ship classes. * Experience supporting the liaison process between sponsors, design agents, shipyards, and contractors on maintenance, repair, funding and scheduling for matters impacting assigned ship classes. * Experience conducting ship checks to verify the work item technical requirements and regularly work with the ships force to troubleshoot systems and technically analyze the cause of casualties. GS-11: In addition to the Basic Requirements for this position, your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-09 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: * Experience utilizing a wide range of shipboard main and auxiliary systems. * Experience utilizing vessel operations and maintenance both in a commercial and military environment. * Experience reviewing plans, specifications, preliminary technical reports, design drawings, specifications for ship maintenance and repairs, and alterations. * Experience communicating on equipment and system life cycle issues. Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0800/marine-survey-technical-series-0873/ Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. Education There is no educational substitution for a GS-0873-12. There is no educational substitution for a GS-0873-11. Additional information This position is covered by the Department of Defense Priority Placement Program. Several vacancies may be filled. A tentative offer of employment will be rescinded if the selectee fails to meet the pre-employment requirements, including failure to report to any of the scheduled appointments. Federal annuitant information: The selection of an annuitant is subject to the Department of Defense and Department of the Navy policy on the employment of annuitants. Policy information may be found at: . Veteran's preference does not apply when selecting individuals under this specific hiring authority. However, if you claim veteran's preference, you will be required to submit supporting documentation with your application as described in the Required Documents section below.

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