Got a passion for robotics, drones, unmanned autonomous systems (UAS), or counter-UAS?
The Coast Guard is seeking the first members of its newly established Robotics Missions Specialist (RMS) rating.
The lateral transfer opportunity is open to members from all ratings, E-4 through E-9. If you’ve got experience in the field, that’s ideal, but anyone who meets the eligibility requirements is encouraged to apply.
All applicants must have an in-scope background investigation and be eligible for a SECRET security clearance. Applications are due July 29. The screening panel convenes August 10 with notifications expected in the following weeks.
You can find application instructions, eligibility requirements, FAQs, and submission guidance on the RMS SharePoint site and in ALCGENL 061/26 Robotics Mission Specialist (RMS) Lateral Solicitation AY27.
Interested members and commands should join the Information Session scheduled for July 9 at 1:30 pm EDT. If you’re unable to catch the live session, you can watch the post-session recording. Details, a link to the live session, and recording will be posted on the RMS Lateral CIR Guidance page.
A workforce already taking shape
The Coast Guard formally established the new RMS rating and a Robotics Missions Manager (RMM) specialty for chief warrant officers to create a dedicated workforce focused on robotics and autonomous systems (RAS). This turned what was once a Force Design concept into an operational career field dedicated exclusively to integrating unmanned and autonomous systems, including drones, underwater vehicles, and ground robots, across all 11 Coast Guard missions.
While the rating is new, many of its future members are already on the job.
Over the past year, the Coast Guard has been identifying personnel across the fleet who already possess robotics, UAS, and counter-UAS qualifications. Many of them are currently supporting two of the largest security events in recent Coast Guard history: the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations.
After completing specialized training, these operators have been helping stand up the Coast Guard’s expanding counter-UAS capability. We hope they continue to support CG-RAS and consider applying to lateral!
But Coast Guard leaders say the opportunity extends well beyond those already working in the field.
“We know there’s talent throughout the service,” said Senior Chief Petty Officer Christian Parker, RMS force manager and champion of the rating standup. “We’re looking for motivated people who want to learn, innovate, and help shape the future of this mission.”
From seafloor to space
The Coast Guard is making significant investments in robotics and autonomous systems.
This year, the service will spend $630 million building up new capabilities, including remotely operated underwater vehicles, unmanned surface vessels, unmanned ground systems, and unmanned aircraft systems supporting missions throughout the maritime domain.
The Coast Guard is also investing heavily in counter-UAS capabilities and the communications architecture needed to connect autonomous systems and transform data into actionable intelligence.
Future RMS personnel may find themselves using autonomous underwater vehicles to inspect critical infrastructure below the surface, operating drones for search and rescue, employing ground robots in hazardous environments, or helping defend ports and major events against unauthorized drones.
A new career path
Establishing RMS and RMM mark a significant milestone in the Coast Guard’s effort to become a leader in robotics and autonomous systems. Less than two decades ago drones and robotic systems were niche capabilities used by a handful of units. Today, they are becoming increasingly important across every mission set.
If you’re selected to lateral, you won’t just join a new rating, you’ll be establishing the culture, standards, and expertise of a workforce and play a growing role in CG-RAS operations for years to come.
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