Course Approval Subject Matter Expert (Basic-Level Mariner)

Client/Agency: U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) / National Maritime Center (NMC) Job Title: Course Approval Subject Matter Expert (Basic-Level Mariner)

Description: Chimera Enterprises is seeking a qualified Course Approval Subject Matter Expert (Basic-Level Mariner) to support the U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center (NMC) Mariner Credentialing Program. The successful candidate will provide essential technical support services by evaluating foundational and component mariner training courses, training sites, and instructors to ensure compliance with national regulations and standards.

Mission: To ensure the safety, security, and essential operations of the Marine Transportation System (MTS) by evaluating and approving basic-level mariner training courses (such as Basic Training, First Aid, Master 100, and Radar), ensuring they meet statutory, regulatory, and USCG policy requirements.

Clearance Level Required: Ability to obtain and maintain a favorable security screening/USCG Suitability (requires access to unclassified but Security Sensitive Information). 

JOB DESCRIPTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Evaluate basic and foundational maritime training provider courses—including curricula, training sites, and instructors—for conformance to 46 CFR Parts 10, 11, and 12, Coast Guard Policy, the Marine Safety Manual (MSM) Volume III, and best maritime industry practices. 
• Formulate recommendations for the Coast Guard and draft formal responses, incorporating any updates or corrections required during government reviews. 
• Maintain a high volume of quality evaluations, processing a minimum of 25 course approvals per month. 
• Participate in a mandatory two-week training and/or orientation at the National Maritime Center (NMC) located in Martinsburg, WV, as well as any additional onsite training requested by the government. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong understanding of maritime regulations, Coast Guard policies, and foundational merchant mariner standards.
• Excellent written communication skills to draft official correspondence and detailed technical recommendations for government review.
• Strong analytical skills to assess training materials and technical documentation for regulatory compliance.
• Ability to work independently and efficiently in a high-volume environment to meet stringent monthly production metrics.
• (Preferred) Experience in writing, developing, or designing maritime training courses. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Credential Requirement: Must hold or have previously held, at a minimum, a U.S. Coast Guard-issued Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Master of Self-Propelled Vessels of Not Less Than 100 Gross Registered Tons (GRT) upon Great Lakes and Inland Waters or superior routes. 
• Certifications: A valid STCW certificate is not required for this role. 

Equal Opportunity Statement: Chimera Enterprises International is committed to equal opportunity and affirmative action in hiring and retaining a diverse workforce, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.