Military Sealift Command

Home > Damage Control Officer

Damage Control Officer

Damage Control Officer

Damage Control Officers (DCOs) conduct training based upon MSC and USCG training requirements, ship drills, ship inspections and/or casualty investigations for the MSC civil service marine workforce.  They may be assigned to a MSC training center, field site, or on an Afloat Training Team.  Duties include, but are not limited to developing/revising training instructions, guides, etc.; participating/conducting training courses; participating in or assisting afloat training teams; acting as safety supervisor during field exercises, conducting inspections and drills aboard ships; writing instructional, investigation and/or inspection reports with recommendations; providing technical advice on damage control issues; and/or maintaining and repairing school facilities and equipment as necessary.  DCOs also represent MSC interests at conferences germane to MSC training and readiness. DCOs report to a Damage Control Leader.  Candidates selected required to sail 30-45 days on annual basis during high relief request seasons and mission contingencies.  When assigned to a ship, DCO comes under the administrative supervision of the ship’s Master.