myNavyRates.rg
Home/Compare All Rates/EO
Donate
Compare All RatesBest ListsQuizPayBonusesASVAB CalculatorAdvancement Name SearchDuty StationsFamily ImpactFree DegreeRecruitersBe an OfficerArticlesFAQs
myNavyRates.rg
Donate

Explore

  • All Rates
  • Side-by-Side
  • Best Lists
  • Articles
  • FAQs

Tools

  • Take the Quiz
  • Anti-Match Quiz
  • ASVAB Calculator
  • Pay
  • Pay Value
  • Bonuses
  • Advancement

Life in the Navy

  • Duty Stations
  • Family Impact
  • Free Degree
  • Be an Officer
  • Recruiters

About

  • About
  • Contact
  • Changelog
  • Donate
  • Privacy
  • Disclaimer
  • Sitemap

Not affiliated with the U.S. Navy or Department of Defense.·© 2026 myNavyRates.org. All rights reserved.

HomeCompare RatesQuizBonusesASVAB CalculatorMore
Home/Rates/EO
Equipment Operator sailor
Equipment Operator rating badgeEO

Equipment Operator(EO Navy Rating)

Operates heavy construction equipment including bulldozers, graders, and cranes.

Underwater Construction Team (UCT) pathway. BU / CE / EO / UT / SW / CM / EA sailors can volunteer for the UCT NEC (5932), which combines Seabee construction skills with second-class diver qualification. See the ND profile for full UCT standards (age ≤ 27, dive PST, and the 16-week pipeline at NDSTC Panama City).

Overall

5.7/10
Burnout4.5
Lifestyle7.0
Civilian ROI4.6
Happiness7.0
Manning %3.0
$$$ Pay5.1

Quick Stats

Enlistment BonusNo active bonus
Civilian Sector Transferability$40k–$68k
Advancement OutlookAverage
Manning %100%
Initial Contract4 yr active /
Medical Requirements
  • ✓Normal color perception
  • ✓Normal hearing

Security Clearance

No Clearance — Open to Permanent Residents

This rate does not require a security clearance and is open to lawful permanent residents (green card holders) as well as U.S. citizens.

ASVAB Requirements

AFQT Minimum

31

Line-score options — meet any one

  • AR+MC+AS≥145
Calculate your score →

Who This Is Best For

Best for individuals who love operating heavy machinery and want certifications that construction companies actively recruit for. If driving bulldozers, excavators, and cranes in challenging locations around the world sounds ideal, this is one of the most directly employable Seabee rates with strong civilian demand.

+Pros

  • ✓Strong civilian career transition

–Cons

    Real Opinions

    +Positive

    ✓

    “Seabees are the best-kept secret in the Navy. Great deployments, real skills, and you actually build stuff.”

    r/navy|
    ✓

    “You get to operate heavy equipment like bulldozers, graders, and cranes. It is actually fun and the CDL you earn is valuable on the outside.”

    Indeed|

    –Negative & Mixed

    ✗

    “Deployments can be to some rough locations. And you are still in the Navy, so expect Navy nonsense on top of the construction work.”

    r/newtothenavy|
    ⚬

    “The hours can be long on deployment when you are building something on a deadline, but it beats being on a ship.”

    Indeed|

    Page 1 of 3

    Share your opinion about EO

    0 chars
    Select one:

    Recruiter vs Reality

    What the recruiter says vs. what it's actually like.

    🫡 Recruiter says

    “Seabees travel the world building things and have great quality of life!”

    💀 Reality

    Source: MyNavyRates research

    Quality of life is generally good but deployments to austere locations (desert, jungle) are common. You will do real construction but also a lot of maintenance and military duties.

    🫡 Recruiter says

    “Equipment Operators drive heavy machinery.”

    💀 Reality

    Source: veteran feedback

    EO operates bulldozers, cranes, and excavators on construction projects. The equipment experience is directly transferable but Seabee deployments mean working in extreme heat or cold.

    Page 1 of 7

    😱

    Horror Stories

    Real stories people have shared about this rate. Swipe to browse.

    💀

    “12-hour days, 7 days a week, going outside the wire on a regular basis while operating bulldozers near combat zones. Offices were tents, berthing was tents, and the food sucked.”

    Source: history.navy.mil|

    Story 1 of 4

    Share a horror story about EO

    0 chars

    Related Reading

    Guides on picking a rate, ASVAB, bonuses, promotion, and life after the Navy.

    Getting Started

    How do you choose the right Navy rate for you?

    Choosing a Navy rate means weighing your ASVAB scores, lifestyle preferences, civilian career goals, and willingness to deploy or go to sea. Start by identifying which ratings you qualify for, then narrow the list by what matters most to you.

    Getting Started

    What is the ASVAB and what scores do you need?

    The ASVAB is a multi-aptitude test that determines which Navy ratings you qualify for. Your sub-test scores combine into line scores, and each rating has minimum line-score requirements. Higher scores open more options.

    Career & Pay

    Which Navy rates have the biggest enlistment bonuses in 2026?

    Active Component (Active Duty) only. Per the CNRC GENADMIN dated 24 July 2026, the biggest source-rate bonus is $40,000 — Nuclear Field on FY26 ship dates ($75,000 EB cap). Special Warfare Boat Operator (SB) follows at $35,000, then EOD and SEAL (SO) at $30,000, and Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR) and Cryptologic Technician Maintenance (CTM) at $25,000. Special Operations Future Sailors who clear the elevated PST standards add a flat $20,000 EBPST. Most rates cap at $50,000 total EB. The Loan Repayment Program adds up to $65,000 on top, separately. Reserve component (SELRES) bonuses are governed by a different message and are not covered here.

    Real Opinions

    +Positive

    ✓

    “Seabees are the best-kept secret in the Navy. Great deployments, real skills, and you actually build stuff.”

    r/navy|
    ✓

    “You get to operate heavy equipment like bulldozers, graders, and cranes. It is actually fun and the CDL you earn is valuable on the outside.”

    Indeed|

    –Negative & Mixed

    ✗

    “Deployments can be to some rough locations. And you are still in the Navy, so expect Navy nonsense on top of the construction work.”

    r/newtothenavy|
    ⚬

    “The hours can be long on deployment when you are building something on a deadline, but it beats being on a ship.”

    Indeed|

    Page 1 of 3

    Share your opinion about EO

    0 chars
    Select one:

    Recruiter vs Reality

    What the recruiter says vs. what it's actually like.

    🫡 Recruiter says

    “Seabees travel the world building things and have great quality of life!”

    💀 Reality

    Source: MyNavyRates research

    Quality of life is generally good but deployments to austere locations (desert, jungle) are common. You will do real construction but also a lot of maintenance and military duties.

    🫡 Recruiter says

    “Equipment Operators drive heavy machinery.”

    💀 Reality

    Source: veteran feedback

    EO operates bulldozers, cranes, and excavators on construction projects. The equipment experience is directly transferable but Seabee deployments mean working in extreme heat or cold.

    Page 1 of 7

    😱

    Horror Stories

    Real stories people have shared about this rate. Swipe to browse.

    💀

    “12-hour days, 7 days a week, going outside the wire on a regular basis while operating bulldozers near combat zones. Offices were tents, berthing was tents, and the food sucked.”

    Source: history.navy.mil|

    Story 1 of 4

    Share a horror story about EO

    0 chars

    Remarks

    No driving under the influence of alcohol within a 1-year period of attending "A" school. Must hold a valid state driver's license. No major vehicle accidents to include damages to private, state, or government property in excess of $7500.00 or hitting a pedestrian.

    Source: CNRC / ECM Rating List, 19 Jan 2026. Verify current guidance with your recruiter before signing.

    Training Pipeline — Total ~18 weeks (4 months)

    8w
    10w
    Boot Camp— 8 weeks
    RTC Great Lakes, IL
    Basic military training for all recruits
    A-School— 10 weeks
    NCBC Gulfport, MS
    6.3% washoutDifficulty: 2.3/10
    Technical training for rating qualification
    Fleet Assignment— 0 weeks
    First duty station
    Report to operational command

    Calculate Your End Training Date and Holidays and Events You Will Miss During Training

    Ship dates are approximate and based on the weekly RTC Great Lakes schedule. Confirm your exact date with your recruiter. Source: bootcamp.navy.mil

    Career Progression Milestones

    Estimated timeline based on current advancement rates. Actual timing varies by individual performance and Navy needs.

    4 mo
    1 mo
    1yr 5mo
    6 mo
    1yr 6mo
    Training Complete— 4 mo
    Pipeline finished (~4 mo) — NCBC Gulfport, MS
    First Duty Station— 5 mo
    Sea or shore duty assignment
    NEC Specialization Options— 1yr 10mo
    17 specializations available
    B00AB03AB06A

    Advancement Outlook

    E-2 to E-4 Advancement Outlook

    Time to E-4: 30 months total

    • E-1 → E-2: 9 months at E-1. Automatic
    • E-2 → E-3: 9 months at E-2. Automatic
    • E-3 → E-4: 12 months at E-3. Automatic

    E-4 is automatic — competitive advancement starts at E-5

    How to advance faster to E-4

    Your recruiter can process you in at E-2 or E-3 on day one if you qualify. Every rung skipped shortens the path to E-4 by months. Official transcripts / certificates required at enlistment.

    • E-2 →Easy
      2 years of JROTC completed. Easiest common path if your high school offers JROTC.
    • E-2 →Moderate
      24+ semester hours/ 36+ quarter hours of college credit (below the associate's threshold). Roughly one full year of college.
    • E-2 →Moderate
      Civil Air Patrol Billy Mitchell Award. Achievable with consistent cadet participation, but requires testing and leadership time.
    • E-2 →Moderate
      Sea Cadet Corps — reaching the Sea Cadet E-2 rate (join by age 17).
    • E-2 to E-3 →Moderate
      Boot camp leadership roles — roles don't auto-pin rank. Advancement comes from earning Honor Recruit or Hall of Fame at graduation (one award only, not stacked).
      • Honor Recruit up to E-2 — effectively the #1 ranked recruit in your division (~60-80 recruits), one Sailor per division per cycle. Selection is based on cumulative performance across all three academic exams, Physical Readiness Test (PRT) scores, uniform and personnel inspections, military bearing, and peer/Recruit Division Commander (RDC) evaluations. Roles that typically compete at this level:
        • Assistant LPO (ALPO) — deputy to the LPO.
        • Master-at-Arms (MAA) — barracks cleanliness, standards, and discipline.
        • Yeoman (YN) — division admin, paperwork, and tracking.
        • Educational Petty Officer (EPO) — study groups, test prep, and academic remediation.
        • Religious Petty Officer (RPO) — coordinates chapel and religious services.
        • Athletic Petty Officer (APO) — leads PT and fitness assessments.
        • Mail Petty Officer — handles mail distribution and tracking.
        • Section Leaders — squad-level leaders below the division-wide roles.
      • Hall of Fame up to E-3 — the most elite recognition at Recruit Training Command (RTC), awarded Navy-wide rather than per division. Requires exceptional performance in every training metric: top-tier scores on all three academic exams (typically 90%+), "Outstanding" on the final Physical Readiness Test (PRT), near-perfect uniform and personnel inspections, held a division leadership role with strong performance, and zero remediation, infractions, or negative marks across the full training cycle. Senior leadership roles positioned to compete:
    • E-3 →Moderate
      3 years of JROTC completed (any service branch). Straightforward if your high school has the program — three school years of enrollment.
    • E-3 →Hard
      Eagle Scout (BSA) or Gold Award (GSUSA) — the highest youth scouting awards. Typically takes years of participation and a capstone service project.
    • E-3 →Hard
      Associate's degree (or 48+ semester hours / 72+ quarter hours of college credit, 100-level or higher from an accredited institution). Two years of full-time college.
    • E-3 →Hard
      Civil Air Patrol Earhart Award. Uncommon — only a small fraction of CAP cadets reach this level.
    • E-3 →Hard
      Sea Cadet Corps — reaching the Sea Cadet E-3 rate (join by age 16).

    Ceiling is E-3 at accession — stacking qualifications doesn't push you to E-4 out of the gate.

    Ways to accelerate E-4 after you're in

    • Very HardMeritorious Advancement Program (MAP) — Command-nominated promotion that skips the exam entirely. Each command gets a small seasonal quota of MAP slots and hands them to the top performers based on evaluation ranking. Fastest path on paper, but you're competing directly with every other sailor at your command.

    Rules can change — verify current criteria with your recruiter and in the latest Navy Recruiting Manual (COMNAVCRUITCOM) before signing any paperwork that assumes a specific entry paygrade.

    E-5 and E-6 Advancement Outlook

    Average★☆★☆

    1 of 4 factors working in your favor · 1 working against you

    • ▼

      Manning

      E5 102%E6 98%(E-5/E-6)
      Community is at or above authorized strength. Limited BBA billet gaps — expect more competition and slower promotion.

      Source: N12 Community Health Indicator brief (FY26)

    • ●

      Enlistment bonus

      No

      No active enlistment bonus for this rate. Most ratings do not offer one in any given fiscal year, so this is a neutral signal on its own.
    • ▲

      Overall Selective Reenlistment Bonus (SRB) Outlook

      Strong opportunity
      Navy is paying a substantial bonus to retain sailors. Strong signal that billets are staying empty at senior paygrades.

    Bonuses — Click here to see your military pay

    How to qualify & get paid

    1. Sign a contract for this rate at MEPS with the bonus(es) listed on your NAVCRUIT 1133/52 Enlistment Guarantee — eligibility is locked at signing.
    2. Ship to Recruit Training Command (RTC) Great Lakes inside the authorized window — EBSHP and EBPST are earned and paid at RTC graduation and cannot be recouped after.
    3. Complete A-school (and any required follow-on C-school or qualifying course) for your rating — EBSR is earned and paid at school graduation, except for the Special-Operations pipelines, which pay later (AIRR after FRS + first duty station; SO after SQT; SB after SWCC Charlie phase; EOD/ND after their respective A-schools).
    4. LRP is paid annually upon submission of a DD 2475; ~25% is withheld for federal taxes, and a W-2 is issued. LRP must be on your contract at accession — it cannot be added later via reclassification.

    Important details & disqualifiers

    • •All bonuses on this page are Active Component (Active Duty) only. Reservists (SELRES) follow a separate CNRF incentive message — ask your recruiter.
    • •Future Sailors with Tier 3 education credentials (HiSET / GED / alternative) are NOT authorized any EB.
    • •AFQT score must be ≥ 31 for EBSHP and ≥ 50 for LRP.
    • •EBSR is the only EB type that can be partially recouped if you separate before completing the obligated service. EBSHP / EBPST cannot be recouped after RTC.
    • •Bonus payments are subject to federal income tax withholding.
    • •EB-for-High-School (EBHS) is currently NOT authorized in the July 2026 GENADMIN — distinct from earlier cycles when it was offered.
    • •Funding: NDAA 2026 authorizes contracts through 31 December 2026; appropriations cover obligations through 30 September 2026; max-EB authority extends through 10 January 2027 — all subject to congressional reauthorization of 37 USC § 331.

    No initial enlistment bonus for this rate per the current CNRC GENADMIN. Career Sailors may still qualify for a Selective Reenlistment Bonus (SRB) — see the Reenlistment section below.

    You May Qualify for a Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC)

    Specialties within this rate you can select, some with additional compensation. Each NEC has its own training, bonus potential, and career path.

    0000Any NEC or no NEC (all qualifying Sailors in this rating)

    Selective Reenlistment Bonus (SRB)

    —

    First Reenlistment (17 mo to 6 yrs Active Duty)

    Not eligible

    🟢

    Second Reenlistment (6 to 10 yrs Active Duty)

    $30,000

    Max

    Newly Added

    —

    Third Reenlistment (10 to 14 yrs Active Duty)

    Not eligible

    B00AConstruction Inspector

    Reviews and analyzes project construction drawings and specifications and prepares a Construction Inspection Plan including a checklist of inspection points during critical phases of construction and installation. Verifies that all materials and/or equipment ordered meet applicable project specifications and certifies their conformance to these specifications upon receipt.

    Potential Civilian Post-Navy Outcomes

    Heavy Equipment Operator

    Transferability: 8/10

    $40k–$68k

    Post-Navy Salary Trajectory

    Estimated civilian salary growth after separating from the Navy, based on industry data for this rating's skill set.

    Year 1

    $40K

    Year 5

    $54K

    Year 10

    $68K

    10-year growth: +70%

    Retention & Burnout

    First-Term Retention

    44%

    choose to reenlist

    Burnout Index

    4.5/10

    Moderate

    Watch Intensity

    5

    Hours/Day

    9

    Deploy Tempo

    6.5

    Manning Strain

    0

    Low Morale Risk

    3

    Attrition Signal

    6

    What this means: The Burnout Index combines watch intensity (25%), daily hours (20%), deployment tempo (15%), manning strain (15%), morale (15%), and attrition (10%) into a single risk score.

    Lifestyle7/10

    Ship vs. Shore Split

    48% / 52%

    Sea Duty Tempo

    Moderate — 6.5/10

    Physical Demand

    high — outdoor

    Sea Duty Tempo measures how much of a career is spent in deployable billets — ships, submarines, deploying squadrons, and expeditionary units — and how often those units leave homeport. It is separate from physical demand: an administrative job aboard a deployed unit still deploys, and a hands-on maintenance job at a shore command does not.

    Watch Standing

    Standard workday in garrison, rotating security watch deployed

    Watch standing is a 24-hour duty rotation where sailors take turns manning critical positions aboard the ship or at their command. The rotation determines how frequently you stand watch and how much rest time you get between shifts.

    Watch qualifications vary by command and platform. Expect to qualify within 90 days of reporting.

    OPNAVINST 3120.32DUSNI ProceedingsNavy Watch Standing Manual

    Life on Watch — Sea Stories

    “I was operating a front-end loader during a humanitarian assistance mission after a typhoon when we found survivors trapped under a collapsed structure. We couldn't use the heavy equipment — too much risk of secondary collapse. So I used the loader bucket as a crane, gently lifting debris one piece at a time while rescuers pulled people out from underneath. Took four hours of the most precise equipment operation I've ever done. Normally I move tons of dirt without thinking. That day, every inch of bucket movement mattered because lives were underneath. We got three people out alive.”

    Veteran account (composite)

    Story 1 of 5

    Common Duty Stations

    Joint Base Pearl Harbor-HickamSea
    Family Friendly

    6.6/10

    Schools + spouse jobs

    Base Housing Wait

    18 months

    Avg waitlist for on-base

    Cost of Living

    155

    100 = national avg

    Naval Station GuamSea
    Family Friendly

    5/10

    Schools + spouse jobs

    Base Housing Wait

    4 months

    Avg waitlist for on-base

    Cost of Living

    125

    100 = national avg

    Naval Station RotaShore
    🎓

    Step-by-Step Strategy Guide to Getting an Associate's Degree After Boot Camp — For Free

    Most sailors don't know they already have 9 or more general education college credits just from graduating boot camp.

    Based on your rate, you may have more.

    You can earn an associate's degree for free in 12-30 months without spending a dime.

    Strategy Guide & Boot Camp College Credit Calculator →
    Not the rate for you? See other ratings side by side →

    Talk to a Sailor

    Community Poll

    If you could go back, would you pick EO again?

    Career & Pay

    How does promotion work in the Navy?

    Navy advancement depends on exam scores, evaluations, time in rate, and available quotas. Some ratings promote over 50% of eligible sailors while others promote less than 5%. Your rate choice directly affects how fast you can advance.

    Career & Pay

    Which Navy jobs set you up best for a civilian career?

    Information warfare ratings (IT, CTN, IS) and medical ratings (HM) offer the strongest civilian career pipelines. Security clearances, technical certifications, and hands-on experience make these sailors highly competitive in the private sector.

    Browse all articles →

    Life on Watch — Sea Stories

    “I was operating a front-end loader during a humanitarian assistance mission after a typhoon when we found survivors trapped under a collapsed structure. We couldn't use the heavy equipment — too much risk of secondary collapse. So I used the loader bucket as a crane, gently lifting debris one piece at a time while rescuers pulled people out from underneath. Took four hours of the most precise equipment operation I've ever done. Normally I move tons of dirt without thinking. That day, every inch of bucket movement mattered because lives were underneath. We got three people out alive.”

    Veteran account (composite)

    Story 1 of 5

    B07A
    + more
    C-School / Advanced Training— 2yr 4mo
    1 follow-on school available
    Shore Duty Rotation— 3yr 10mo
    First shore rotation opportunity
    • Leading Petty Officer (LPO) — runs day-to-day ops inside the division.
    • Assistant RCPO (ARCPO) — backs up the RCPO and steps in when needed.
    • Recruit Chief Petty Officer (RCPO) — senior recruit in the division, overall accountability to the RDCs. Highest visibility for meritorious advancement.
    +1 SRB added/increased · −0 SRB reduced/eliminated
    $30,000 max
  • ●

    Billet-Based Advancement eligibility

    Legacy exam cycles

    This rating has not been integrated into Billet-Based Advancement yet. Advancement still runs through the traditional exam and Final Multiple Score (FMS) system — your exam score is one of the main factors in how you promote.

    • Sources: Manning NAVADMIN · SRB NAVADMIN · Billet-Based Advancement Handbook (NAVADMIN 255/24, updated via NAVADMIN 112/25). How to interpret these factors →

    Additional E-5 pathway

    Auto E-5

    STAR Reenlistment + C-School

    Automatic E-5 for first-term Sailors who lock in a qualifying course

    The Selective Training and Reenlistment (STAR) program lets above-average first-term Sailors reenlist in exchange for a guaranteed C-school slot. If the school is on the Navy Career Schools Listing (CSL) at the time of reenlistment, the deal also includes automatic advancement to E-5 — no exam, no wait. Governed by MILPERSMAN 1160-100. One-time benefit per career: if you use STAR to auto-advance to E-5, you are not eligible for a subsequent guaranteed C-school later.

    Qualifying C-schools for this rate

    • Basic Engineer Diver

      NEC B17A
      CIN A-433-00364-yr OBLISERV

    Source: Current Career Schools Listing (CSL), dated 04 March 2026. The Navy refreshes the CSL every 1–2 years — verify the current list with your Career Counselor (CCC) before locking in a reenlistment.

    B03AMobile Utilities Support Equipment (MUSE) Technician

    Performs tasks associated with the installation, inspection, termination, operation, troubleshooting, repair and life cycle management of utility grade critical power systems, to include power generation, transformation and distribution of shore based utilities.

    Requirements

    • Billets require Commander Naval Facilities Engineering Command's concurrence to be assigned this NEC code.
    B06AWater Well Drilling Technician

    Determines the geographical area most suitable for developing a water supply. Sets up and operates well drilling machine (rotary, rotary/pneumatic and/or percussion rig) to drill water wells. Hoists tubular casing and drill steel making necessary connections. Manipulates levers to control drill and drive casing. Operates drilling rig using drilling fluids as required.

    Requirements

    • This NEC code will be awarded for a period of three years. Rectification will be by a written test developed and administered by the Naval Construction Training Centers.
    • Personnel attached to the Reserve Naval Construction Force (RNCF) are awarded this NEC code based on the recommendation of individual Commanding Officers of RNCF units and the approval of the Commanding Officer, Naval Reserve Personnel Command (NRPC) in lieu of completion of applicable courses.
    B07ABlaster

    Establishes and maintains blaster qualification certification program. Notes geologic formations and determines bore locations for the placement of explosives required for clearing sites, excavating for construction, and obtaining rock for quarry operations to include stock piling and rock crushing. Transfer explosives from magazine to blasting site.

    Requirements

    • Personnel assigned to billets designated with this NEC code must possess a certificate of qualification, valid for 12 months, issued by certifying school and must re-certify annually in accordance with: a. Shore activities - OPNAVINST 8020.14 series. b. Naval Construction Forces (NCF) COMLANT/COMPACINST 8023.5 series. c. Selected Reserve personnel may re-certify biannually as authorized by OPNAV ltr 8020 Ser 411F/4U385314 of 7 Aug 84 (NOTAL). d. All non-certified blasters will not be eligible for Special Duty Assignment Pay (SDAP). e. Except EO, other rates listed in the source rating must hold NEC code B16A or B17A to be awarded this NEC code. f. Personnel must meet the standards of NAVMED P-117, Sections III and IV, prior to attending school.
    • Personnel attached to the Reserve Naval Construction Force (RNCF) are awarded this NEC code based on the recommendation of individual Commanding Officers of RNCF units and the approval of the Commanding Officer, Naval Reserve Personnel Command (NRPC) in lieu of completion of applicable courses.
    B08AAdvanced Equipment Operator

    Employs the principles and techniques of foremanship to equipment operations. Solves basic mathematics problems related to earthwork and equipment effectiveness. Applies principles of surveying as it pertains to earth work operations. Applies principles of asphalt paving and operates, adjusts and services asphalt paver, asphalt distributer and rollers in support of paving operations.

    Requirements

    • NEC code may be earned by completion of one of the following means: a. Completion of the formal training course. or b. Completion of individual segments of the formal training with A-721-0034 (Electrical Theory); A-721-0037 (Power Distribution System and Line Vehicles); A-721-0032 (Motors and Controllers); A-721-0024 (Advanced Base Power Plant and Maintenance); A-721-0001 (Interior Wiring), combined with on-the-job training, and recommendation from the Commanding Officer.
    • The Navy eLearning Rigging 101 (NCC-R101-01) must be completed prior to attending the formal training course or the Earthwork Operations (A-730-0047) individual segment.
    • Submit NAVPERS 1221/6 with supporting documentation to BUPERS-312 via the respective ECM for award of this code from means other than completion of formal training pipeline.
    • Personnel attached to the Reserve Naval Construction Force (RNCF) are awarded this NEC code based on the recommendation of individual Commanding Officers of RNCF units and the approval of the Commanding Officer, Naval Reserve Personnel Command (NRPC) in lieu of completion of applicable courses.
    B15AConstruction Management Specialist

    Interpret construction project drawings, plans and specifications. Employ the principles to conduct construction project estimates for materials, tools, equipment and manpower requirements needed to execute various construction projects. Performs scheduling, production control and management tracking and reporting of construction projects.

    Requirements

    • NEC code may be earned by completion of one of the following means: a. Completion of the formal training course - or - b. Completion of individual segments of the formal training with A-412-0028, A-412-0029, and A-412-0030 and required Commanding Officer recommendation via NAVPERS 1226/1.
    • Submit NAVPERS 1221/6 with supporting documentation to BUPERS-312 via the respective ECM for award of NEC code from means other than completion of formal training pipeline. 22
    B16AUnderwater Construction Technician Advanced

    Qualified to dive and perform underwater construction operations using approved air diving apparatus, underwater tools, equipment, materials and techniques. Employs the principles and techniques of foremanship on underwater inspection, repair, construction and demolition projects. Estimates the material, manpower and supervises execution of underwater projects.

    Requirements

    • 24 months duty with an Underwater Construction Team (UCT) is required.
    • Member must submit NAVPERS 1221/6 with Commanding Officer's recommendation from the UCT member is assigned, to BUPERS-312 for awarding of this NEC Code.
    • Must hold valid SECRET clearance.
    • Completion of formal training for this NEC code also meets the prerequisite requirements for earning B15A in a diving environment.
    B17ABasic Engineer Diver

    Qualified to dive and perform underwater construction operations using approved air diving apparatus, underwater tools equipment, materials and techniques.

    B18AMaster Underwater Construction Diver

    Qualified to supervise air or mixed gas dives using SCUBA and surface supplied diving equipment. Responsible to the Diving Officer for the safe conduct of diving operations.

    B19ASeabee Technical Security Specialist (STSS)

    Provides technical security expertise with a focus on construction. Builds, repairs, and maintains technical security infrastructures in remote locations world-wide. Provides construction security assistance through the establishment, maintenance, and supervision of security programs. Assists in the technical security countermeasure surveillance.

    Requirements

    • A SECRET security clearance with the ability to obtain a TOP SECRET/SCI security clearance is required.
    • NEC code is awarded based on completion of CIN A-710-0001 and assignment to Naval Support Unit.
    • Submit NAVPERS 1221/6 via ECM, to BUPERS-312 for award.
    • Candidates to Naval Support Unit must be Warfare qualified for selection.
    B22ASafety Inspector

    Organizes and directs the operation of the safety department. Investigates accidents, analyzes accidents and problem areas, and recommends methods to decrease frequency and/or eliminate accidents. Collects data to ascertain accident trends. Inspects project sites, grounds, buildings, and machinery to isolate hazards to life, health, and equipment.

    717BSmall Arms Marksmanship Instructor

    Performs specific duties as a Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor. Conducts training in all phases of basic marksmanship, both ashore and afloat, including firearms safety, mechanical training on small arms, instructional and qualification firing, basic range operations, records and reports. Performs preventive maintenance on small arms.

    Requirements

    • Personnel who have previously earned either M01A, M02A, M03A, M04A, M05A, O20A, O23A, O26A, O29A or 757B NEC code may be awarded this NEC code upon completion of formal training.
    • Source ratings AW, AWR, and AWS must hold NEC code G02A prior to assignment of this NEC code.
    • For all additional Source Ratings other than AO, AW, AWF, AWR, AWS, BU, CB, CE, CM, CU, EA, EO, EOD, FC, FCA, GM, MA, MN, ND, SB, SO, STG, SW, TM and UT, this NEC code may be awarded to personnel but will not be used to identify additional Source Ratings on billets.
    • Awarding of this NEC code for Source Rating AW (E9) only applies to SELRES personnel.
    718BCrew Served Weapons (CSW) Instructor

    Provides Command personnel training to qualify as command anti-terrorism (AT) watchstanders as a Crew Served Weapons operator. In addition, this person will assist the AT Training Supervisor in the development and conduct of AT exercises, CSW Casualty Control drills and tactical employment of CSW training.

    Requirements

    • For all additional Source Ratings other than AO, AW, BU, CB, CE, CM, CU, EA, EO, EOD, FC, FCA, GM, MA, MN, ND, SB, SO, STG, SW, TM and UT, this NEC code may be awarded to personnel but will not be used to identify additional Source Ratings on billets.
    • Awarding of this NEC code for Source Rating AW (E9) only applies to SELRES personnel.
    720ANaval Special Warfare (NSW), Combatant-Craft Assault Support Engineer

    Maintains, troubleshoots and repairs NSW Combatant-Craft Assault (CCA) main propulsion, ancillary engineering equipment and hull structure in an isolated, wartime environment.

    Requirements

    • Secret security clearance required.
    • Second class swim qualification required.
    • Must have Physical Readiness Test scores within standards for the last four cycles.
    • Member must have successfully completed a training pipeline that includes NSW Combatant Craft Diesel Engine Fundamentals, NSW Combatant Craft Electrical Fundamentals; and Factory training CCA `Technician' Engineering/Advanced Propulsion & Electrical/Systems Troubleshooting Training and Maintenance Support Technician (MST) Engineer CCA JQR.
    • Member will retain previously earned NEC codes upon earning this NEC code.
    • Submit a NAVPERS 1221/6 to BUPERS-312 via ECM (BUPERS-312).
    720BNaval Special Warfare (NSW), Special Operation Craft Riverine (SOCR) Support Engineer

    Maintains, troubleshoots and repairs NSW SOCR main propulsion, ancillary engineering equipment and hull structure in an isolated, wartime environment.

    Requirements

    • Secret security clearance required.
    • Second class swim qualification required.
    • Must have Physical Readiness Test scores within standards for the last four cycles.
    • Member must have successfully completed a training pipeline that includes NSW Combatant Craft Diesel Engine Fundamentals, NSW Combatant Craft Electrical Fundamentals; and Maintenance Support Technician (MST) Engineer SOCR JQR.
    • Member will retain previously earned NEC codes upon earning this NEC code.
    • Submit a NAVPERS 1221/6 to BUPERS-312 via ECM (BUPERS-312).
    720CNaval Special Warfare (NSW), Combatant-Craft Medium Support Engineer

    Maintains, troubleshoots and repairs NSW Combatant-Craft Medium (CCM) main propulsion, ancillary engineering equipment and hull structure in an isolated, wartime environment.

    Requirements

    • Secret security clearance required.
    • Second class swim qualification required.
    • Must have Physical Readiness Test scores within standards for the last four cycles.
    • Member must have successfully completed a training pipeline that includes NSW Combatant Craft Diesel Engine Fundamentals, NSW Combatant Craft Electrical Fundamentals, MTU CM2/CE2 and CE3 Factory training, Vector Controls Training and Maintenance Support Technician (MST) Engineer CCM JQR.
    • Member will retain previously earned NEC codes upon earning this NEC code.
    • Submit a NAVPERS 1221/6 to BUPERS-312 via ECM (BUPERS-312).
    720DNaval Special Warfare (NSW), Combatant-Craft Heavy Support Engineer

    Maintains, troubleshoots and repairs NSW Combatant-Craft Heavy (CCH) main propulsion, ancillary engineering equipment and hull structure in an isolated, wartime environment.

    Requirements

    • Secret security clearance required.
    • Second class swim qualification required.
    • Must have Physical Readiness Test scores within standards for the last four cycles.
    • Member must hav successfully completed a training pipeline that includes NSW Combatant Craft Diesel Engine Fundamentals, NSW Combatant Craft Electrical Fundamentals, MTU CM2/CE2 and CE3 Factory training, Vector Controls Training, and Maintenance Support Technician (MST) Engineer CCM JQR.
    • Member will retain previously earned NEC codes upon earning this NEC code.
    • Submit a NAVPERS 1221/6 to BUPERS-312 via ECM (BUPERS-312).
    Family Friendly

    5.5/10

    Schools + spouse jobs

    Base Housing Wait

    2 months

    Avg waitlist for on-base

    Cost of Living

    80

    100 = national avg

    View all stations →

    🔨 Related Navy Ratings in Construction

    Other construction ratings sailors often compare against EO Equipment Operator.

    BUBuilderCEConstruction ElectricianCMConstruction MechanicEAEngineering AideSWSteelworkerUTUtilitiesman
    Compare EO side-by-side with these ratings→

    Real questions from people considering Equipment Operator, answered by current and former sailors.

    No questions yet for Equipment Operator.

    Be the first to ask!

    0/500