As a Marine Transportation Specialist within the MARAD Fellows Program, you will engage in a comprehensive training experience designed to equip you with the essential principles, concepts, and work processes fundamental to the maritime industry. This role involves both formal classroom instruction and practical on-the-job training, allowing you to develop a thorough understanding of the organization, its programs, policies, and objectives. You will receive assignments that provide hands-on experience in various aspects of vessel operations, including oversight of operational performance, marine cargo handling, safety of navigation, and ensuring compliance with regulatory, class, and contract requirements. In this entry-level position, you will assist in making contract awards for commercial ship berthing by developing technical requirements and conducting evaluations. Your responsibilities will also include utilizing written, oral, and IT communication tools to create reports and analyses related to vessel operations. The ideal candidate for this role will possess a keen interest in the marine industry, along with a foundational understanding of maritime commerce, management theories, organizational principles, and administrative procedures. This position is particularly suited for recent graduates from recognized maritime academies who are eager to learn and grow within the field. Additionally, you will be required to maintain your USCG Merchant Mariner Credentials and obtain a Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC). This role may involve occasional travel, and you will be expected to adhere to the agency's telework policies, which allow for flexible work arrangements as determined by your supervisor. Overall, this position offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience in the maritime sector while contributing to the mission of the U.S. Maritime Administration.