Explore how your federal experience as a Marine Survey Technical (GS-0873) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.
Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.
| GS Level Group | Corporate Titles | Responsibilities | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | Entry-Level Marine Surveyor, Marine Technician, Junior Environmental Consultant | Assist in conducting marine surveys, collecting data, and lifting equipment. Support senior personnel in the preparation of reports and fieldwork operations. | $40,000 - $55,000 |
| 5-7 | Marine Surveyor, Environmental Scientist, Field Analyst | Conduct marine site assessments, analyze data, and prepare comprehensive reports. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. | $55,000 - $75,000 |
| 8-9 | Senior Marine Surveyor, Marine Project Manager, Lead Environmental Consultant | Oversee marine survey projects, coordinate fieldwork, ensure accuracy of data collection, and manage project timelines. Serve as a primary contact for clients while mentoring junior staff. | $75,000 - $95,000 |
| 10-11 | Principal Marine Surveyor, Project Director - Marine Services, Senior Environmental Program Manager | Manage multiple marine survey projects, develop strategic plans, and lead a team of technical staff. Ensure delivery aligns with quality standards and regulatory requirements while maintaining client relationships. | $95,000 - $120,000 |
| 12-13 | Director of Marine Operations, Chief Marine Surveyor, Senior Environmental Management Consultant | Lead the company's marine surveying division, establish policies, oversee budgets, and coordinate with regulatory bodies. Drive innovation and ensure best practices in survey methodologies and technologies. | $120,000 - $150,000 |
| 14-15 | Vice President of Marine Services, Senior Executive - Marine Technology, Global Marine Operations Director | Set strategic direction for marine survey services on a global scale, manage executive teams, and liaise with stakeholders at all levels, including government and industry leadership. Direct organizational initiatives and policy development. | $150,000 - $200,000 |
| SES | Senior Executive Service Marine Programs Director, Chief of Marine Survey Operations, Executive Vice President of Marine Services | Provide executive leadership for all marine survey activities, develop long-term goals, and work closely with federal agencies. Establish partnerships to influence policies impacting the marine sector and lead organizational growth strategies. | $200,000 - $300,000 |
Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.
Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.
Certified Marine Surveyor (CMS)
This certification, offered by the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS), demonstrates a recognized level of expertise in the field of marine surveying including vessel condition assessments and compliance with regulations. Having a CMS certification can greatly enhance job prospects in the private sector by showcasing a professional understanding of marine safety standards and the ability to conduct thorough inspections.
American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) Certification
The ABYC offers certifications focusing on various aspects of boat and yacht production including electrical systems and maintenance practices. Achieving this certification can provide an edge in the civilian sector by evidencing knowledge of best practices in marine design and safety, which is highly valued by employers in marine construction and maintenance.
Diploma or Certificate in Marine Engineering
Completing a diploma or certificate in marine engineering from an accredited institution focuses on the technical aspects of ship design, construction, and maintenance. This credential offers an advantage in the civilian sector by equipping candidates with the technical knowledge essential for roles in design, engineering, or compliance in marine industries.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
Certification as a Project Management Professional indicates proficiency in managing complex projects, a skill particularly useful in marine surveying projects that require coordination of multiple stakeholders and resources. This certification can lead to job opportunities in project management roles within marine construction and surveying firms, making a candidate more competitive.
Marine Environmental Protection Certificate
This certification focuses on the regulations and practices surrounding environmental protection specific to marine settings. It emphasizes the applicant's commitment to sustainable practices in marine operations, a growing concern in the civilian sector, thereby improving job prospects in companies prioritizing environmental standards.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Hazard Recognition Certification
OSHA certification provides knowledge of workplace safety standards, which is crucial when surveying marine vessels and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. This credential not only enhances a candidate's qualifications but also demonstrates a commitment to safety, a highly regarded trait in the marine industry.
See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.
Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.
Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.
Transitioning from a federal GS-0873 Marine Survey Technical role to a private sector job can be both an exciting and challenging journey. Below, I outline several key areas to focus on: mindset shifts, resume and interview tips, networking strategies, and translating federal experience into industry language.