US Coast Guard Employee Reviews about "away from home"

Pros

Pay isn't to bad, retirement after 20 years, and the health plan can't be beat.

Cons

Long hours away from home and family. Operations at boat stations and CG Cutter require almost strong family support do to the schedule

Pros

Good pay and benefits when compared to comparable civilian work available without a degree including 100% medical coverage for member and family with no deductible or copays. 4 years of college paid for after enlistment. Most career paths directly relate to a civilian career. MUCH BETTER quality of life than the other military services. This job is VERY fulfilling, you can and will make a difference. Even support personnel have opportunities to be directly involved in operations. I have traveled to many beautiful and amazing locations. The best part of the Coast Guard is being part of the Coast Guard. You will make life long friendships and have pride in knowing that you were part of what makes it such an amazing organization.

Cons

Qualifying for service it the first large hurdle. You must get a qualifying score on the ASVAB to get in AND pass a military entrance medical exam. This can be very difficult for a lot of people since about half of the people who apply will be disqualified for some reason. There aren't very many Coast Guard Recruiters or Recruiting offices. They seem to be very very busy, so just keep trying until you can get ahold of one. It took me a year and about 5 or more 4hour trips to get in. It was worth it. Basic training is probably the biggest challenge you will go through in your life. It is designed to transform you into a Coast Guardsman who can go out in that storm to save another person without giving up. This takes work. It is at least as challenging as the other services recruit training, maybe harder. You will have to listen and obey orders. If you can't do this, go find somewhere else to work. There will be times you are away from home for several months at a time. This is tough, but it is for a higher cause. You will be having adventures and making memories while you are away.

Pros

Great job awesome healthcare

Cons

Long time away from home

Pros

Steady Pay and vey busy

Cons

Long hours and away from home

Pros

The Coast Guard has been much more than a place of employment for me, it has provided me with training and experience to excel in life, not just the organization. It places a high value on its personnel by encouraging success in all members incentives for education and training and regularly providing human relations training. Also has an excellent work/life program for assistance with personal problems off the job.

Cons

Inherent in the missions is the likelihood of time away from home for stretches of a few weeks or even months away from home.

Pros

Fun lots to learn engaging

Cons

Long hours away from home

Pros

Is a branch of the armed services. (Just like the Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines) Have same or similar benefits as the other services.

Cons

Potential time away from home or travel. This is a twenty-four seven type job. Can be involved with traumatic type events.

Pros

excellent training opportunities. great opportunity to further your education with TA.

Cons

long hours and many days away from home

Pros

Job stability and pride to accomplish missions

Cons

Extensive time away from home

Pros

In the Coast Guard you will be given the opportunity to experience many different jobs. In each new duty station you not only experience a new location but will work on new or different equipment. The military gives you housing and ensures that you are trained in a skill. You will also be eligible for tuition assistance for college. Advancements are great.

Cons

Probably the biggest complaint is that you can be away from home for long periods of time. Another con is that you may get stationed in an area that you do not care for.