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Military Sealift Command Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lifecycle Engineer

$63K - $129K/yr

Military Sealift Command (MSC) operates ships for the Armed Forces and other agencies. These ships are operated by US Coast Guard (USCG) licensed Merchant Mariners and maintained to commercial ...

Library Technician

Springfield, VA · On-site

$18 - $18.34/hr

We are seeking a Library Technician to support our Virtual Technical Library (VTL) of the Military Sealift Command (MSC). * Responsible for day-to-day operation of the technical library including but ...

MECHANICAL ENGINEER

Norfolk, VA · On-site +1

$75K - $118K/yr

You must be able to travel on military and commercial aircraft for extended periods of time. * This ... command decision. * You will be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. Passport. * You will be ...

Assistant Ship Manager

$120K - $135K/yr

Candidates must be able to communicate effectively with sponsor program managers, Military Sealift Command Port Engineers, and contractors to ensure work items are always executed efficiently and ...

Showing results 21-40

Military Sealift Command information

See salary details

$11K

$35K

$41.5K

How much do military sealift command jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for military sealift command in the United States is $35,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,000.00 and $40,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the Military Sealift Command?

The Military Sealift Command (MSC) is a United States Navy organization responsible for providing ocean transportation for the Department of Defense, as well as other government agencies. MSC operates a fleet of civilian-crewed ships that deliver supplies, fuel, equipment, and other essential materials to support U.S. military operations worldwide. The command plays a critical role in ensuring that American military forces have the logistical support they need, both in peacetime and during conflicts. MSC ships are also involved in humanitarian missions and disaster relief efforts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Military Sealift Command position?

To thrive in a Military Sealift Command (MSC) role, you need maritime experience, relevant licenses or endorsements (such as Merchant Mariner Credential), and a thorough understanding of ship operations and logistics. Familiarity with navigation systems, cargo handling equipment, and safety management protocols is typically required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are essential soft skills, given the close quarters and diverse crews. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient support for naval operations and mission-critical logistics worldwide.

What are some common challenges faced by crew members working with the Military Sealift Command, and how are they addressed?

Crew members with the Military Sealift Command often encounter challenges such as extended periods at sea, adapting to a structured chain of command, and quickly responding to dynamic operational needs. These challenges are addressed through comprehensive training programs, well-defined onboard routines, and strong support networks, including access to medical and mental health resources. Teamwork is highly emphasized, as crew members regularly collaborate across departments to ensure safe and efficient vessel operations.

What is the difference between Military Sealift Command vs Navy Merchant Marine?

AspectMilitary Sealift CommandNavy Merchant Marine
CredentialsSTCW certifications, maritime licensesSTCW certifications, maritime licenses
Work EnvironmentSupport ships, logistics, cargo transportCommercial ships, cargo and passenger vessels
Employer & IndustryU.S. Department of Defense, military logisticsPrivate shipping companies, commercial maritime industry

The Military Sealift Command and Navy Merchant Marine both require maritime certifications and operate in maritime environments. However, the Military Sealift Command is a government agency supporting military logistics, while the Navy Merchant Marine typically refers to civilian mariners working on commercial vessels. Both roles involve maritime skills but serve different sectors within the maritime industry.

How long does it take to get into the Military Sealift Command?

The time to join the Military Sealift Command varies depending on the position and individual qualifications but typically involves completing a recruitment process that can take several months, including application review, background checks, medical examinations, and training. Candidates often need relevant maritime experience, certifications, and security clearances, which can influence the overall timeline.
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Cities with the most Military Sealift Command job openings:

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Infographic showing various Military Sealift Command job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,000 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

US Department of the Navy

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 380 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

You will serve as a TELECOMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST in the Communication Security Branch (N4642) of Military Sealift Command (MSC) of MILITARY SEALIFT COMMAND.Qualifications:Your resume must 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 serving as a COSMEC Alternate Account Manager responsible for managing, planning, implementation, and operations of secure communication systems supporting fleet and shore components.
  • Experience determining operational capabilities based on the cryptographic equipment manuals and communication security policies, using problem-solving rules, procedures, techniques, and methods.
  • Experience interacting with customers to fulfill COSMEC management requirements associated with logistics, handling, distribution, destruction, and reporting of COSMEC material.
  • Experience administering and managing the oversight of COMSEC materials assigned to Local Elements based upon DON and MSC policies and procedures.
  • Experience executing life cycle management (LCM) requirements for assigned Local Elements, which is comprised of configuration management, firmware upgrades, software updates, IAVA patches and battery management for assigned COMSEC equipment

Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management web site: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/#url=List-by-Occupational-Series
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:In lieu of specialized experience, you may qualify with the following education or combination of both education and experience:
  • Successfully completed a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in electrical or electronic engineering, mathematics, physics, public utilities, statistics, computer science, telecommunications management, information systems management, business administration, industrial management, or other fields related to the position to be filled. -OR-
  • Successfully completed three full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in electrical or electronic engineering, mathematics, physics, public utilities, statistics, computer science, telecommunications management, information systems management, business administration, industrial management, or other fields related to the position to be filled. -OR-
  • Successfully completed an LL.M. degree that is related to the position being filled. -OR-
  • A combination of experience and graduate education as described above that equates to one year of experience

A transcript must be submitted with your application if qualifying using education. See Required Documents for additional information.Employment Type: OTHER

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