Coast Guard · MOS Career Guide

MST — Marine Science Technician

Inspected commercial vessels and waterfront facilities for compliance with federal safety, security, and pollution regulations, and responded to oil and hazardous material spills — documenting findings, collecting samples, and coordinating with vessel operators and port partners.

Civilian Careers

Where MST experience fits

These civilian roles map closely to what a Coast Guard Marine Science Technician already does:

  • Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Specialist
  • Regulatory Compliance Inspector
  • HAZMAT / Emergency Response Technician
  • Marine Terminal Operations Supervisor
  • Environmental Technician
Transferable Skills

What you bring on day one

  • Regulatory inspection and compliance auditing against written standards
  • Hazardous materials handling and spill response
  • Incident documentation and technical report writing
  • Coordinating response operations across multiple agencies and contractors
  • Sampling, testing, and chain-of-custody procedures

Certifications to consider

Questions

MST to Civilian FAQ

What civilian jobs can an MST (Marine Science Technician) do?

Common fits include Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Specialist, Regulatory Compliance Inspector, HAZMAT / Emergency Response Technician, Marine Terminal Operations Supervisor, and Environmental Technician. The right match depends on your specialty, leadership level, and interests.

Do I need a degree to use my MST experience?

Often no. Many of these roles value hands-on experience and certifications over a degree. Where a credential helps, we point you to the fastest path.

How do I put MST on a civilian resume?

Translate duties into civilian terms and lead with outcomes and numbers. Our free Resume Studio and MOS Translator do this for you in minutes.

Does LockLeed charge veterans?

Never. LockLeed is a veteran-owned staffing firm; our help is always free for job-seeking veterans.

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