Naval and Maritime Operations Careers

The Military operates hundreds of ships and small boats. Naval and Maritime Operations enlisted personnel pilot small watercraft such as tugboats, gunboats and barges, and handle above-deck operations and maintenance on larger ships or submarines. Servicemembers in this career field love being on the water, and there are few better ways to do it.

Possible Responsibilities

• Assist in enforcing International Maritime Law
• Consult maps, charts, weather reports and navigation equipment
• Keep ship logs
• Direct the course and speed of boats
• Operate hoists, cranes and winches to load cargo
• Stand watch for security, navigation or communications
• Operate and maintain on-deck equipment and ship rigging

Helpful Attributes

Useful school subjects include mathematics, mechanics and engineering. Helpful attributes include:

• Interest in sailing and navigation
• Following instructions well
• Being comfortable reading maps
• Enjoying physical work

Training Provided

Classroom instruction is provided for Naval and Maritime Operations enlisted personnel, though most training occurs on the job. Sample courses include:

• Boat Handling Procedures
• Use of Compasses, Radar, Charts and Other Navigational Aids
• Navigational Mathematics
• Log and Message-Handling Procedures