The United States Coast Guard offers a wide range of career opportunities, with 21 different Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) to choose from. Whether you’re interested in aviation, engineering, or law enforcement, there’s a Coast Guard MOS that can match your skills and interests.
Aviation MOS
The Coast Guard’s aviation program is one of the most prestigious in the military, with a fleet of aircraft that includes helicopters, planes, and drones.
- Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT): AMTs are responsible for maintaining and repairing the Coast Guard’s aircraft, ensuring they are airworthy and ready for mission.
- Aviation Machinist’s Mate (AD): ADs install, maintain, and repair aircraft engines, as well as perform routine maintenance tasks.
- Aviation Electronics Technician (AT): ATs install, maintain, and repair electronic systems on Coast Guard aircraft, including navigation, communication, and radar systems.
- Avionics Electrical Technician (AE): AE technicians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems on Coast Guard aircraft, including generators, motors, and electrical distribution systems.
Engineering MOS
The Coast Guard’s engineering program offers a range of career opportunities for those interested in designing, building, and maintaining ships, boats, and other equipment.
- Marine Engineer (ME): MEs are responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the Coast Guard’s fleet of ships and boats.
- Machinery Technician (MK): MKs install, maintain, and repair engines, pumps, and other mechanical equipment on Coast Guard ships and boats.
- Boatswain’s Mate (BM): BMs are responsible for maintaining and repairing the Coast Guard’s fleet of boats, including engines, hulls, and equipment.
- Electrician’s Mate (EM): EMs install, maintain, and repair electrical systems on Coast Guard ships and boats, including generators, motors, and electrical distribution systems.
Law Enforcement MOS
The Coast Guard’s law enforcement program offers a range of career opportunities for those interested in enforcing maritime law and protecting the public.
- Marine Law Enforcement Specialist (MLE): MLEs enforce maritime law and regulations, including boarding and inspecting vessels, and investigating maritime crimes.
- Port Security Specialist (PSS): PSSs are responsible for securing Coast Guard ports and facilities, including monitoring surveillance systems and responding to security incidents.
- Marine Safety Specialist (MSS): MSSs inspect and enforce safety regulations on commercial vessels, including ensuring compliance with safety standards and investigating accidents.
Intelligence MOS
The Coast Guard’s intelligence program offers a range of career opportunities for those interested in analyzing and disseminating intelligence information.
- Intelligence Specialist (IS): ISs analyze and disseminate intelligence information, including identifying and assessing threats to national security.
- Cryptologic Technician (CT): CTs analyze and decipher encrypted messages, including identifying and translating languages.
- Geospatial Intelligence Analyst (GIA): GIAs analyze and interpret geospatial intelligence data, including creating maps and analyzing satellite imagery.
Healthcare MOS
The Coast Guard’s healthcare program offers a range of career opportunities for those interested in providing medical care to Coast Guard personnel.
- Health Services Technician (HS): HSs provide medical care to Coast Guard personnel, including administering medications and performing medical procedures.
- Dental Technician (DT): DTs assist dentists and hygienists with dental procedures, including preparing patients for exams and treatments.
- Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT): MLTs perform laboratory tests and analyze samples, including blood and tissue samples.
Administration MOS
The Coast Guard’s administration program offers a range of career opportunities for those interested in managing personnel, supplies, and equipment.
- Personnel Specialist (PS): PSs manage personnel records and perform administrative tasks, including processing awards and promotions.
- Supply Specialist (SK): SKs manage supplies and equipment, including ordering and stocking inventory.
- Telecommunications Specialist (TC): TCs install, maintain, and repair telecommunications equipment, including phones, computers, and networks.
Operations MOS
The Coast Guard’s operations program offers a range of career opportunities for those interested in supporting Coast Guard operations.
- Operations Specialist (OS): OSs coordinate and plan Coast Guard operations, including scheduling and deploying personnel and equipment.
- Navigation Specialist (NV): NVs navigate and plot courses for Coast Guard vessels, including using GPS and radar systems.
- Communications Specialist (CM): CMs install, maintain, and repair communication systems, including radios and satellite systems.
Additional MOS Options
- Storekeeper (SK): SKs manage supplies and equipment, including ordering and stocking inventory.
- Yeoman (YN): YNs perform administrative tasks, including managing personnel records and processing awards and promotions.
- Data Analyst (DA): DAs analyze and interpret data, including creating reports and presenting findings.
Key Takeaways
The Coast Guard offers a wide range of career opportunities, with 21 different MOS options to choose from. Aviation, engineering, law enforcement, intelligence, healthcare, administration, and operations are just a few of the career fields available. Each MOS has its own unique responsibilities and requirements, so it’s essential to research and choose a career path that aligns with your skills and interests.
Final Thoughts
The Coast Guard’s MOS options offer a range of exciting and challenging career opportunities for those who want to serve their country and make a difference. Whether you’re interested in aviation, engineering, or law enforcement, there’s a Coast Guard MOS that can match your skills and interests. Take the time to research and explore the different career paths available, and find the one that’s right for you.
🚨 Note: The Coast Guard's MOS options are subject to change, and not all MOS options may be available at all times. It's essential to check with the Coast Guard's website or a recruiter for the most up-to-date information.
What is the difference between a Coast Guard MOS and a Navy rating?
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The main difference between a Coast Guard MOS and a Navy rating is the specific job duties and responsibilities. While both the Coast Guard and Navy have similar career fields, such as aviation and engineering, the specific tasks and responsibilities can vary. Additionally, the Coast Guard’s MOS system is designed to provide more flexibility and opportunities for advancement.
Can I choose my Coast Guard MOS?
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Yes, you can choose your Coast Guard MOS, but it’s essential to meet the specific requirements and qualifications for the MOS you’re interested in. The Coast Guard also considers factors such as your aptitude, skills, and education when assigning an MOS.
How long does it take to complete Coast Guard training for a specific MOS?
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The length of Coast Guard training for a specific MOS can vary, but most training programs last several months to a year or more. For example, Coast Guard aviation training can last up to 2 years, while law enforcement training can last several months.
