New Employee Guide

NEO & New Mariner Help

Your first 6 months at MSC, explained. From getting your NEO date to stepping aboard your first ship, we'll guide you through every step.

Disclaimer

We are not officially affiliated with MSC. This site is run by former CIVMARs, with input from current CIVMARs, to share best practices and lessons learned. Please defer to all official communications from MSC for authoritative information.

Your Journey

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Click on any section to learn more about that stage

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You Got a NEO Date, Now What?

Before You Leave
Preparing for your MSC journey starts before you leave home. Here's what you need to know and do before heading to Norfolk.

Related Articles

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Resiliency Training (Week 2)

Week 2 - Norfolk, VA
After NEO, you'll complete Resiliency Training in the same building. This program was implemented to improve CIVMAR retention and prepare new hires for success. Topics include maritime culture, mental health, professional communications, and shipboard familiarization. Yes, it feels like high school team-building exercises. Yes, you still have to do it.

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TCHR - Training Center Hampton Roads

~1 Month - Williamsburg, VA
After resiliency training, you'll be transported to TCHR in Williamsburg, Virginia. Here you'll complete mandatory safety training including basic firefighting, water survival, and other required courses β€” regardless of what credentials you already hold.

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Training: The Basics

What training you need, when you need it, and what to expect.

TCHR Deep Dive

Everything you need to know about Training Center Hampton Roads.

Coming Soon
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Follow-On Training

Varies by Rate
Depending on your rate (job) and choices, you may have additional training after TCHR. This includes rate-specific courses and optional programs like the Surface Rescue Swimmer program.
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The Pool

1 Day - 2 Months
After completing training, you'll "check into the pool" to await your ship assignment. The pool is in Norfolk, VA or San Diego, CA. Wait times vary from 1 day to 2 months depending on your rate and fleet needs. You may have heard about "detailing from home" or the "virtual pool" β€” these options are still not consistently implemented. If you want to transfer to the San Diego pool from Norfolk, you can, but MSC won't pay for your flight and you'll need to do it over a weekend to avoid being marked AWOL.

Related Articles

Pool Guide

How the pool works, what to expect, and tips for surviving the wait.

Coming Soon
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Going to Your First Ship

4-6 Months
You won't know your ship or destination until you receive your orders and ticket. Your first assignment will be 4-6 months. Pack for all seasons β€” your ship could be anywhere in the world. Don't forget steel-toe boots and work clothes. This is where the real learning begins. Good luck!

Ready for Your First Ship?

Explore our ship guides and port information to prepare for wherever MSC sends you.

Good luck on your maritime journey!