Explore Careers

Ship and Submarine Officers

Explore Careers

Ship and Submarine Officers

Transportation, Distribution & Logistics
Officer Role

Service Branches with this Role

  • Army logo
  • Navy logo
  • Coast Guard logo

What do Ship and Submarine Officers do in the Military?

Ship and submarine officers command or supervise operations of watercraft vessels on oceans, bays, sounds, lakes, and coastal waters.

Where do Ship and Submarine Officers work?

Ship and submarine officers work aboard their vessels. Engineering officers are subjected to hot, humid, and noisy environments. Submarine officers work in confined spaces for extended periods.

How much do they make?

Median Military Salary

This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$93,667

Military Salary Range

This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$23,673 - $331,665

How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary

Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.

  • Set based on rank and years of service.
  • Paid every month.

Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.

  • Tax-free payments.
  • Varies by location and family status.

Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.

  • Based on specialized roles.
  • Varies by position and duty.

What training do Ship and Submarine Officers gain in the Military?

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for ship and submarine officers primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in one of the following departments: air, weapons, operations, communications, engineering, deck, administration, or supply. Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include:

  • Management and organization of ship or submarine operations
  • Piloting and navigation of ships
  • Interpretation of maritime laws and policies

Military Training for Officers

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree. All officers complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.

What skills help Ship and Submarine Officers succeed?

  • Ability to organize and direct the work of others
  • Interest in sailing and being at sea

What are possible career paths after the Military?

  • Motorboat Operators
  • Captains, Mates and Pilots of Water Vessels
  • Commercial Divers
  • Transportation, Storage and Distribution Managers
  • General and Operations Managers
  • Ship Engineers
  • Sailors and Marine Oilers
  • Marine Engineers and Naval Architects

Interested? Take Your Next Step!