6 Figures In The Coast Guard: Salary Ranges Revealed

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) is a unique branch of the military that operates under the Department of Homeland Security during peacetime. With a wide range of responsibilities, including maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, and environmental protection, the Coast Guard requires a diverse and skilled workforce. If you're considering a career in the Coast Guard, you're likely wondering about the salary ranges for different positions.

Understanding Coast Guard Ranks and Pay Grades

The Coast Guard uses a pay grade system to determine salaries, with nine enlisted pay grades (E-1 to E-9) and eleven officer pay grades (O-1 to O-10). The pay grades are based on a combination of factors, including time in service, performance, and level of responsibility.

Enlisted Pay Grades

E-1 (Seaman Recruit): $1,733.10 - $1,733.10 per month
E-2 (Seaman Apprentice): $1,942.50 - $2,044.70 per month
E-3 (Seaman): $2,043.70 - $2,373.30 per month
E-4 (Petty Officer Third Class): $2,393.30 - $3,061.10 per month
E-5 (Petty Officer Second Class): $2,654.10 - $3,615.90 per month
E-6 (Petty Officer First Class): $3,058.40 - $4,395.60 per month
E-7 (Chief Petty Officer): $3,551.20 - $5,292.80 per month
E-8 (Senior Chief Petty Officer): $4,336.80 - $6,445.20 per month
E-9 (Master Chief Petty Officer): $5,304.60 - $7,849.20 per month

Officer Pay Grades

O-1 (Ensign): $3,287.10 - $4,136.40 per month
O-2 (Lieutenant Junior Grade): $3,788.90 - $5,135.10 per month
O-3 (Lieutenant): $4,417.10 - $6,416.20 per month
O-4 (Lieutenant Commander): $5,212.60 - $8,044.20 per month
O-5 (Commander): $6,302.70 - $10,356.90 per month
O-6 (Captain): $7,510.40 - $13,422.10 per month
O-7 (Rear Admiral Lower Half): $9,089.40 - $16,459.80 per month
O-8 (Rear Admiral Upper Half): $11,252.40 - $19,725.60 per month
O-9 (Vice Admiral): $13,714.40 - $23,342.20 per month
O-10 (Admiral): $16,321.10 - $26,724.30 per month

Salary Ranges for Coast Guard Specialties

In addition to pay grade, salaries can vary depending on the specific specialty or job. Here are some approximate salary ranges for different Coast Guard specialties:

Avionics Electrical Technician: $40,000 - $70,000 per year
Boatswain's Mate: $35,000 - $60,000 per year
Electronics Technician: $45,000 - $80,000 per year
Machinery Technician: $40,000 - $70,000 per year
Marine Science Technician: $50,000 - $90,000 per year
Operations Specialist: $45,000 - $80,000 per year

Benefits and Allowances

In addition to basic pay, Coast Guard members receive a range of benefits and allowances, including:

Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): $700 - $2,000 per month
Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS): $369.39 per month
Special Duty Pay: $150 - $500 per month
Hazardous Duty Pay: $150 - $500 per month
Subsistence Allowance: $369.39 per month

Coast Guard Education Assistance

The Coast Guard offers several education assistance programs, including:

Tuition Assistance: Up to $2,500 per year
Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR): Up to $362 per month
Coast Guard Tuition Assistance Program: Up to $2,500 per year

Conclusion

The Coast Guard offers a range of salaries and benefits to its members, depending on pay grade, specialty, and level of experience. From enlisted personnel to officers, there are opportunities for advancement and professional growth in the Coast Guard. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to transition to a new role, understanding the salary ranges and benefits of the Coast Guard can help you make informed decisions about your future.