Coast Guard Rating · Support
CG-OAF10 Operations Afloat
Overview
Operations Afloat officers perform deck watch officer duties aboard Coast Guard cutters and oversee the safe navigation of their vessels. They administer applicable Coast Guard policies and enforce and prosecute assigned missions worldwide, with responsibilities ranging from apprentice deck watch officer duties to command cadre service.
Core Skills
- operations management
- watchstanding and monitoring
- risk assessment and mitigation
- policy implementation and compliance
- team leadership and supervision
- navigation and situational awareness
- command and control processes
- communication and coordination
- training and mentoring
- time-critical decision making
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Project
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
Civilian Career Paths
- Transportation Management
- Project Management
- Administration
- Fleet Management
Training & Development
Getting Started
- National 3rd Mate Unlimited OC or NC
- National 2nd Mate Unlimited OC or NC
- STCW: Advanced Firefighting · Funded
Career Growth
- National Chief Mate Unlimited OC or NC
- National Master 500/1600 OC or NC
- National Master Unlimited OC or NC
What the Work Involves
- Direct courses and speeds of ships, based on specialized knowledge of local winds, weather, water depths, tides, currents, and hazards.
- Prevent ships under navigational control from engaging in unsafe operations.
- Consult maps, charts, weather reports, or navigation equipment to determine and direct ship movements.
- Prepare staff work schedules and assign specific duties.
- Perform or participate in emergency drills, as required.
Related Occupations
- Logisticians
- Management Analysts
- Maintenance and Repair Workers, General
- Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: a four-year degree or equivalent experience.
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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