Searched around on the forum for a little bit here, found some info regarding coasties going out for AB positions but no luck for any Snipes…
Heres the quick low-down:
Been active duty for 5 years, qualified diesel EOOW stood plenty of AUX, Main and Rover watches as well and now i’m looking to get licensed and head out into the civilian world but the catch is i really don’t know too much about the ins and outs of the civilian mariner (and more specifically the engineer) world.
Preferably i would like to find coastal/inland work back home in the San Francisco bay area.I’ve looked into tugs as well as some salvage companies but i’m really not sure where to start license-wise, DDE? Third assistant? i was told by my CO that looking into a maritime academy would be a waste of my time considering that i have a pretty solid knowledge base already. any suggestions on where to start?
Start with getting a TWIC, Merchant Mariner Credential and some STCW classes while you are still on active duty. Look here http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/
[U]Most importantly[/U] be prepared mentally to work at an entry level position even though you have military engine room quals.
[QUOTE=OGGIE;146654]… i was told by my CO that looking into a maritime academy would be a waste of my time considering that i have a pretty solid knowledge base already. any suggestions on where to start?[/QUOTE]
Start by ignoring your CO.
Your “knowledge base” isn’t worth squat until or unless you can document it in a manner acceptable to the NMC. That will become easier in the future as the CG is working on the military to mariner path but for now the Navy is not doing much to participate or help its own people … you are worth more to them where you are now, there is no upside for them to help you better your position outside the organization.
Given today’s approach to HR, some kid in an office is only going to look for key words in your resume or application. If he wants to see an academy diploma or graduation from the school that spawned him, you are toast. Apply to an academy, it doesn’t matter which one, just get a license and a degree by going through the hoops that are recognized by HR people (most of whom have never set foot on a boat) and will provide you with an education and documentation that you must have to compete in the job market when and if you decide sailing for a career is not what you thought it would be.