The NOAA Commissioned Corps is the uniformed service of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a bureau of the Department of Commerce. NOAA Corps officers share common educational backgrounds in science or engineering, and are trained to support NOAA’s mission of surveying the Earth’s oceans, coasts, and atmosphere to ensure the economic and physical well-being of the Nation.
NOAA Corps officers operate ships, fly aircraft, lead mobile field parties, conduct diving operations, manage research projects, and serve in staff positions throughout NOAA. They provide the technical and operational expertise, dynamic leadership, and breadth of background and experience to optimize NOAA’s missions.
Each new NOAA Corps officer must complete an intensive four months Basic Officer Training Class (BOTC). There is
a one year service obligation after successful completion of BOTC, and all initial assignments will be three years
aboard one of NOAA’s survey or research vessels. Officers are reassigned every 2-3 years, rotating between shipboard
and land based positions throughout the country. Assignment preferences are considered, but the needs of the service
are always a top priority for NOAA’s commissioned officers.
The NOAA Corps seeks officer candidates with science or engineering backgrounds, a desire to serve their country, and leadership potential. If you have these qualities and are interested in a career incorporating service, science, and adventure, you will find a unique opportunity in the NOAA Corps.
For general information about the NOAA Corps, its history and a career in the NOAA Corps, see the NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps brochure(PDF format).
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