Overview
Title
National Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee; Vacancy
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The Coast Guard wants new people to join a special team to help with important decisions about sailors' jobs, and they're looking for folks who know a lot about how ship engines work. To be on this team, you need to send them a letter and your job background by email before March 15, 2021.
Summary AI
The Coast Guard is looking for new members to join the National Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee. They are particularly interested in those who are credentialed with ratings as a qualified member of the engine department. This committee will help advise the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security about various matters affecting personnel in the United States merchant marine, like training and certification. Applicants should send a cover letter and resume via email by March 15, 2021.
Abstract
The Coast Guard is re-soliciting applications from persons interested in membership on the National Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee (Committee) to represent the viewpoint of those credentialed with ratings as a qualified member of the engine department. This recently established Committee will advise the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security on matters relating to personnel in the United States merchant marine, including the training, qualifications, certification, documentation, and fitness of mariners. Please read the notice for description of the Committee position we are seeking to fill.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The National Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee is looking to expand its membership by soliciting applications from individuals holding credentials as qualified members of the engine department within the merchant marine sector. This committee plays a crucial advisory role to the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, focusing on a wide array of issues, including the training and certification of mariners.
Summary
This notice pertains to a call for applications from the Coast Guard, targeting individuals who hold specific maritime credentials. The advisory committee they aim to populate will provide key insights to Homeland Security on essential maritime personnel issues within the United States. Applicants are requested to submit a cover letter and resume before the March 15, 2021 deadline.
Significant Issues
One notable area of concern is the lack of specificity regarding the total number of committee members sought. Without clarity on how many positions the committee is looking to fill, there could be confusion or misinterpretation among potential applicants regarding the committee's intended scope and size.
Furthermore, while the document clarifies that committee membership is unpaid, this could deter participation from qualified individuals who may not have the financial freedom to volunteer their time without some form of compensation. While travel and per diem expenses may be reimbursed, the absence of a salary is a critical consideration that might limit the diversity and range of applicants.
Another issue revolves around the mention of a security background examination for prospective committee members. Although necessary for safeguarding sensitive national issues, there's insufficient detail on what this entails, potentially dissuading applicants who may be apprehensive about this vague requirement.
The technical jargon used, especially references to the United States Code (U.S.C.), might not be easily understood by all applicants, restricting access to those who might otherwise be highly qualified but unfamiliar with legal citations.
Finally, while the document reassures non-discriminatory practices in the selection process, it lacks a detailed explanation of how candidates are ultimately chosen, which might raise questions about transparency and fairness in the selection process.
Impact on the Public
The public at large may not be directly affected by this document; however, the composition and effectiveness of this advisory committee can indirectly influence maritime safety and regulations. By providing informed guidance to Homeland Security, the committee can help enhance maritime industry standards and practices, thereby ensuring more robust safety measures and operational protocols that benefit all.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
For stakeholders within the maritime industry, especially those holding or considering obtaining credentials as a qualified member of the engine department, this document is of particular significance. It offers an opportunity for professional engagement and influence over maritime policies that impact their work environment and career prospects.
Moreover, the absence of compensation poses a barrier for those who cannot afford to serve without pay. This element might inadvertently favor applicants with greater financial stability, thus impacting the committee's socio-economic diversity and potentially influencing the breadth and depth of perspectives represented.
In conclusion, while this document serves an essential role in shaping maritime personnel policies, addressing the issues of compensation and clarifying selection processes could enhance its accessibility and appeal to a wider pool of qualified candidates.
Issues
• The document does not explicitly specify the number of total members the National Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee is seeking, which could lead to ambiguity regarding the composition of the committee.
• The document states that all members serve at their own expense without salary or compensation from the Federal Government, which might deter qualified candidates who cannot afford to volunteer due to financial constraints.
• The document suggests that applicants may need to undergo a security background examination before appointment, but it does not elaborate on what this examination entails, leading to potential uncertainty for applicants.
• The wording under 'United States' citizens holding active licenses or certificates issued under 46 U.S.C. chapter 71...' is quite technical and may not be easily understood by individuals unfamiliar with U.S.C. (United States Code) references.
• The document does not provide detailed information on how candidates are selected beyond non-discrimination assurance, which may be perceived as lacking transparency in the selection process.