
Fire Controlman(FC Navy Rating)
Fire Controlmen operate and maintain weapons control systems, including missile and gun fire control systems, radar, and associated computer systems aboard surface combatants.
Overall
Quick Stats
- ✓Vision: Corrects to 20/20
- ✓Normal color perception
- ✓No speech impediment
Security Clearance
Secret~$3K–$15K civilian sector value
Requires a National Agency Check with Local Agency Check and Credit Check (NACLC). Processing typically takes 1–3 months and is initiated early in your training pipeline.
ASVAB Requirements
Who This Is Best For
Best for tech-minded individuals who are drawn to the tactical side of electronics — understanding how sensors and weapons integrate into a lethal system. Unique training that translates well to defense contractor and systems engineering roles. Ideal for someone who wants both technical depth and operational excitement.
+Pros
- ✓Active enlistment bonus available
- ✓Strong opportunity advancement outlook
- ✓Strong civilian career transition
–Cons
- ✗Long A-school pipeline
- ✗Significant sea duty
Real Opinions
+Positive
“Fire controlmen work on the coolest weapons systems in the Navy. Aegis experience is highly valued.”
“Fire controlman is one of the best rates in the Navy. Because their A School is so long they instantly get E-4 and so they rate up very quickly.”
–Negative & Mixed
“Almost exclusively ship-based. If you hate sea duty, this is not your rate.”
“High responsibility during combat or alert states where mistakes can have severe consequences. Fast-paced fault isolation where diagnostics are time-critical creates pressure to repair during limited maintenance windows. Repetitive maintenance tasks and long hours during inspections grind you down.”
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0 charsRecruiter vs Reality
What the recruiter says vs. what it's actually like.
🫡 Recruiter says
“The FC rate offers great training and career advancement opportunities!”
💀 Reality
Source: MyNavyRates researchTraining and advancement are available but vary by command and manning. Ask specific questions about sea/shore rotation, typical duty stations, and advancement rates for FC.
🫡 Recruiter says
“FC is a fast-promoting rate.”
💀 Reality
Source: navy dataFC promotion has slowed in recent years as the rate has become more manned. Check the current advancement percentages before assuming fast promotion.
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Horror Stories
Real stories people have shared about this rate. Swipe to browse.
“After COVID the Navy changed. If you like having someone breathing down your neck and being micromanaged this is the job for you. Leadership has no regard for well-being and trampling those below them seems encouraged.”
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0 charsRelated 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 10 April 2026, the Nuclear Field carries the biggest source-rate bonus at $40,000 (FY26 ship dates) and a $75,000 EB cap. Top Special Operations and submarine ratings sit at $30,000 EBSR with a $60,000 EB cap. All other rates cap at $50,000. 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.
Career & Pay