Top-Level Deck Mariner Subject Matter Expert

Location: Onsite or Remote, Martinsburg, WV
Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Overview

Sugpiat Group is seeking a qualified Top-Level Deck Mariner Subject Matter Expert (SME).

The successful candidate will provide technical expertise in evaluating maritime training courses and determining whether course curricula, training locations, and instructors meet applicable U.S. Coast Guard regulatory and policy requirements. This role supports the review and approval process for maritime training courses and helps ensure compliance with established maritime industry standards and federal regulations.

The ideal candidate will have extensive sailing experience as a senior marine engineering officer and a strong understanding of engine department operations, marine propulsion systems, and professional maritime training.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Evaluate maritime training course applications, curricula, training sites, and instructor qualifications for compliance with applicable regulatory requirements.
• Review course approval requests and recommend approval or required corrections based on established U.S. Coast Guard standards.
• Draft written responses to training providers regarding course approval decisions, deficiencies, required updates, and corrective actions.
• Incorporate government reviewer feedback and make requested updates or corrections to course approval documentation.
• Apply applicable federal regulations, Coast Guard policies, and maritime training standards when evaluating course submissions.
• Evaluate courses related to marine engineering and propulsion systems within the scope of assigned responsibilities.
• Ensure evaluations and recommendations are accurate, thorough, consistent, and completed within established timelines.
• Maintain appropriate documentation and records in accordance with National Maritime Center procedures.
• Participate in required training, orientation, and technical discussions with government personnel.
• Stay current with applicable maritime regulations, policies, guidance, and industry best practices.
• Collaborate with government representatives and other subject matter experts to support the NMC's mission and course approval requirements.
• Complete a minimum of 20 course approvals per month, as required by the contract.

Required Qualifications

• Must currently hold or have previously held a U.S. Coast Guard-issued Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)with at least one of the following endorsements:
  • Chief Engineer of vessels of any horsepower (Unlimited Horsepower) for Motor (Diesel), Steam, or Gas Turbine propulsion; OR
  • First Assistant Engineer of vessels of any horsepower (Unlimited Horsepower) for Motor (Diesel), Steam, or Gas Turbine propulsion.
• Must have a minimum of five (5) years of sailing experience on the qualifying credential.
• Demonstrated professional experience in marine engineering operations and the applicable propulsion system associated with the qualifying credential.
• Ability to evaluate technical documentation, interpret regulatory requirements, and prepare clear, accurate written recommendations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage assigned workload, and meet quality and productivity expectations.
• Ability to work onsite at the National Maritime Center in Martinsburg, WV.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience sailing across multiple propulsion modes, including Motor (Diesel), Steam, and Gas Turbine.
• Experience developing, writing, reviewing, or evaluating maritime training courses and curricula.
• Experience reviewing maritime training programs for regulatory compliance.
• Familiarity with U.S. Coast Guard maritime regulations, policies, and training requirements.
• Experience preparing technical evaluations, written findings, and corrective-action recommendations.

Education and Certifications

• No specific formal education requirement is identified for this position.
• A valid Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) certificate is not required.
• The qualifying U.S. Coast Guard-issued MMC endorsement and five years of sailing experience are mandatory.

Work Schedule and Training

• Full-time position, onsite at the National Maritime Center, 100 Forbes Drive, Martinsburg, WV.
• Must attend a two-week training and/or orientation at the National Maritime Center.
• Additional onsite training may be required at the government's request.
• Additional training may be conducted through Microsoft Teams.
• Work schedule and hours will be coordinated in accordance with contract and operational requirements.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Sugpiat Group, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Offer is contingent upon contract award.