Military Sealift Command

G.I. JOBS.. What do prior military hires bring to your company that you like?

MSC.. Knowledge of the work environment, knowledge of terminology, working adaptability, skills and a strong work ethic. Many also have prior sea-time which is extremely beneficial since we only hire for seagoing positions.

G.I. JOBS.. What issues/surprises do you find that military transitioners / veterans need to be aware of when entering the civilian workforce?

MSC.. For our careers specifically, there are several steps that they need to take before they can be hired. They need to obtain a US Passport, their military ID will not be sufficient. Also, our hiring process is typically longer due to the hiring rules and regulations mandated by the Office of Personnel Management, so it is often beneficial for them to begin the process prior to separating /retiring.

G.I. JOBS.. What advantages do military personnel have over their peers of the same age and education level?

MSC.. The ability to adapt to pressure and meet deadlines.

G.I. JOBS.. What are the most common mistakes you see on military / veteran resumes?

MSC.. Since MSC does not use only resumes as our application, we often find that all applicants do not provide enough detail on their prior duties and experiences. Detail is the key. It is what sets people apart. We need more information than just your rank and MOS.

G.I. JOBS.. Is relocating essential to promotions within your company?

MSC.. As our positions are seagoing; relocation is not necessary at all. The individual will need to report to either Norfolk, VA or San Diego, CA for their sailing day, but they can live anywhere.

G.I. JOBS.. What types of positions does your company recruit military for?

MSC.. Civilian Mariners to serve on MSC-crewed ships. We are particularly interested in engineers, individuals with a culinary background and those who have prior Surface Rescue Swimming experience. But if you don’t have any of those skills, are looking for a career opportunity that will provide Federal benefits, exciting travel, job security and career advancement opportunities you should consider a career with MSC.

G.I. JOBS.. Describe one of these positions (responsibilities, daily duties, working hours etc.)

MSC.. Ordinary Seaman - Stands watch while in port or at sea and performs routine deck department maintenance tasks, such as cleaning, painting, and preserving the ship. Performs duty on underway replenishment rigs, dry/liquid cargo handling in both cargo holds and on deck, forklift operation, and helicopter deck operations. Work an 8-hour shift per day or during watch; works (2) four hours shifts per day and eligible for overtime.

G.I. JOBS.. What is the average starting pay for this position?

MSC.. $26,000 plus overtime.

G.I. JOBS.. Describe the benefits of this position (healthcare, retirement, vacation, etc)?