What's it like working as a Third Officer for Military Sealift Command?

I'm curious about what responsibilities come with being a Third Officer at the Military Sealift Command. What’s the day-to-day like, and what skills or qualifications are needed to get this role? Any insights from current or former officers would be great!

The Third Officer role in the Military Sealift Command (MSC) has unique challenges and responsibilities. Day-to-day can vary, but typically, Third Officers manage navigational watches and perform maintenance tasks.

As a Third Officer at the MSC, your primary role would be as an Officer of the Watch. This means you're in charge of the safe navigation of the ship during your watch, which typically lasts four hours. During this shift, you're responsible for monitoring all navigational and communication equipment, making necessary course adjustments, and informing the Captain of any navigational hazards or other significant issues.

Another aspect of the role is the safety duties. You can expect to conduct regular safety inspections and drills. As part of the ship’s safety officers, you prepare crew members for potential emergency situations, think fires or abandon ship scenarios. It's crucial, then, that a Third Officer be proficient in damage control and firefighting procedures, lifesaving techniques, and first aid.

Furthermore, a Third Officer is usually in charge of maintaining lifesaving equipment and conducting inspections on the ship's safety systems. You might also be tasked with maintenance work around the ship, particularly on the ship's boats and deck machinery.

Qualifications for the position typically include a Bachelor's degree from a maritime academy and a U.S. Coast Guard license as a Third Mate Unlimited. Also, a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is required as it’s issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS). As well, all sea service personnel must pass a Merchant Mariner Medical Certificate physical exam, substance abuse requirements, and background checks. Lastly, but also essential, is the requirement to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) SECRET security clearance.

In terms of skills, good communication, leadership, and the ability to think on one's feet are all highly valuable due to the often unanticipated situations that can arise at sea.

Remember, this role can be often demanding with often long periods spent away from family. However, for those passionate about maritime service, the experience as a Third Officer under MSC offers unique opportunities to work on state-of-the-art ships and serve the nation's maritime transport needs.