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Home/Rates/GM
Gunner's Mate sailor
Gunner's Mate rating badgeGM

Gunner's Mate(GM Navy Rating)

Gunner's Mates operate, maintain, and repair all types of weapons systems including missiles, guns, small arms, ammunition handling systems, and ordnance.

Overall

4.5/10
Burnout5.0
Lifestyle4.5
Civilian ROI2.6
Happiness5.0
Manning %4.0
$$$ Pay5.2

Quick Stats

Enlistment BonusNo active bonus
Civilian Sector Transferability$45k–$75k
Advancement OutlookStrong opportunity
Manning %95%
Initial Contract2 yr active /
Medical RequirementsNone listed

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

AFQT Minimum

50

Line-score options — meet any one

  • AR+MK+EI+GS≥205
  • AR+GS+2MK≥205
Calculate your score →

Who This Is Best For

Best for hands-on individuals drawn to firearms, explosives, and weapons technology who thrive in physically demanding, mission-critical roles. Transferable to federal law enforcement armorer positions, defense contracting, and weapons manufacturing careers. Ideal for those who want a tangible, action-oriented trade.

+Pros

  • ✓Strong opportunity advancement outlook
  • ✓Strong civilian career transition

–Cons

  • ✗Significant sea duty

Real Opinions

+Positive

✓

“If you like weapons and ordnance, GM is perfect. You maintain everything from small arms to missile systems.”

Reddit|
✓

“On most ships and shore stations, folks like to make friends with GMs. Most everyone likes to go to the range and have fun with the small arms.”

Quora|

–Negative & Mixed

⚬

“Ship heavy career. Shore duty is rare and usually instructing at a schoolhouse.”

Reddit|
✗

“Civilian transferability is limited unless you go into law enforcement or defense contracting.”

Reddit|

Page 1 of 3

Share your opinion about GM

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Recruiter vs Reality

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

🫡 Recruiter says

“You'll be operating weapons systems — it's like an action movie”

💀 Reality

Source: r/navy

Day-to-day GM work is mostly maintenance: cleaning, greasing, testing fire control systems. Live fire exercises happen but are a small fraction of the job.

🫡 Recruiter says

“GM has a great sea/shore rotation.”

💀 Reality

Source: reddit r/navy

GM is heavily sea-based. Most billets are aboard ships. Shore duty options are limited compared to other rates, and you may spend 60-70% of your career at sea.

Page 1 of 6

😱

Horror Stories

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

💀

“Live-fire shoot, Puerto Rican OPAREA, Mk 45 five-inch mount. Round in the chamber, fuze failure — hang fire. Doctrine says you wait thirty minutes with the barrel elevated over open water before approaching the breech. Doctrine and reality diverge when the CO wants the evolution back on schedule. Ten minutes in, the Weps told me to pull the round. I climbed into the gun house, cracked the breech, and started the manual extraction. The propellant cooked off with my hands on the casing. The flash-gas vented back out the open breech and caught me across the chest and face. I went blind for two weeks. Hearing gone in my right ear, permanently. The round itself did not leave the tube — a small mercy. NAVSAFECOM's surface warfare mishap reports cite hot-gun extraction as the leading cause of Gunner's Mate burn injuries fleet-wide. I was not the first. The breech was repaired in a week. My face took two years. The CO got a letter in his jacket and rotated on time.”

Source: navalsafetycommand.navy.mil|

Story 1 of 5

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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

✓

“If you like weapons and ordnance, GM is perfect. You maintain everything from small arms to missile systems.”

Reddit|
✓

“On most ships and shore stations, folks like to make friends with GMs. Most everyone likes to go to the range and have fun with the small arms.”

Quora|

–Negative & Mixed

⚬

“Ship heavy career. Shore duty is rare and usually instructing at a schoolhouse.”

Reddit|
✗

“Civilian transferability is limited unless you go into law enforcement or defense contracting.”

Reddit|

Page 1 of 3

Share your opinion about GM

0 chars
Select one:

Recruiter vs Reality

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

🫡 Recruiter says

“You'll be operating weapons systems — it's like an action movie”

💀 Reality

Source: r/navy

Day-to-day GM work is mostly maintenance: cleaning, greasing, testing fire control systems. Live fire exercises happen but are a small fraction of the job.

🫡 Recruiter says

“GM has a great sea/shore rotation.”

💀 Reality

Source: reddit r/navy

GM is heavily sea-based. Most billets are aboard ships. Shore duty options are limited compared to other rates, and you may spend 60-70% of your career at sea.

Page 1 of 6

😱

Horror Stories

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

💀

“Live-fire shoot, Puerto Rican OPAREA, Mk 45 five-inch mount. Round in the chamber, fuze failure — hang fire. Doctrine says you wait thirty minutes with the barrel elevated over open water before approaching the breech. Doctrine and reality diverge when the CO wants the evolution back on schedule. Ten minutes in, the Weps told me to pull the round. I climbed into the gun house, cracked the breech, and started the manual extraction. The propellant cooked off with my hands on the casing. The flash-gas vented back out the open breech and caught me across the chest and face. I went blind for two weeks. Hearing gone in my right ear, permanently. The round itself did not leave the tube — a small mercy. NAVSAFECOM's surface warfare mishap reports cite hot-gun extraction as the leading cause of Gunner's Mate burn injuries fleet-wide. I was not the first. The breech was repaired in a week. My face took two years. The CO got a letter in his jacket and rotated on time.”

Source: navalsafetycommand.navy.mil|

Story 1 of 5

Share a horror story about GM

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Remarks

No history of drug or alcohol offenses or domestic violence.

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

Training Pipeline — Total ~27 weeks (6 months)

4w
10w
11w
2w
Delayed Entry Program Wait— 4 weeks
Home
Boot Camp— 10 weeks
Great Lakes, IL
8% washout
A-School— 11 weeks
Great Lakes, IL
7% washoutDifficulty: 2.6/10
Weapons systems and ordnance handling
Fleet Report— 2 weeks
Varies
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.

6 mo
1 mo
1yr 5mo
6 mo
1yr 6mo
Training Complete— 6 mo
Pipeline finished (~6 mo) — Great Lakes, IL
First Duty Station— 7 mo
Likely sea duty assignment
NEC Specialization Options— 2yr
33 specializations available
V030V031V15C

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

Strong opportunity★☆★★

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

  • ▼

    Manning

    E5 87%E6 102%
    E5 is balanced while E6 is overmanned. Your advancement outlook depends on which paygrade you're promoting into next.

    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.
  • •This rate requires a security clearance — failure to obtain clearance may affect bonus eligibility (and several special-operations footnotes explicitly require an earned NEC + clearance before payment).

Historical Bonus Trend by Contract Length

Past NAVADMIN cycles, broken out by contract years. The current CNRC GENADMIN's source-rate bonus (EBSR) is a single amount per rate and appears above; the four-line chart below shows the older multi-contract structure for trend context only.

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)

$30,000

Max

Increased

—

Second Reenlistment (6 to 10 yrs Active Duty)

Not eligible

—

Third Reenlistment (10 to 14 yrs Active Duty)

Not eligible

V030Gunner's Mate (GM) Combined "A" School (BL-1)

Performs GM journeyman-level job tasks within first 12-24 months of Sailor's training continuum. Basic knowledge and skills associated with operating and performing maintenance on Surface Vessel Torpedo Tube (SVTT) and make minor electrical, electronic, hydraulic mechanical, and Servo System casualty analysis and repairs at shipboard levels.

Potential Civilian Post-Navy Outcomes

Weapons Technician (Defense)

Transferability: 4/10

$45k–$75k

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

$42K

Year 5

$52K

Year 10

$62K

10-year growth: +48%

Free Certifications & Credentials

Certifications and licenses the Navy will pay for free through Navy COOL and on-the-job training.

NRA Armorer Certification

NRA

~$45K civilian sector value

OSHA 10-Hour

OSHA

COOL Funded~$42K civilian sector value

OSHA 30-Hour Safety

OSHA

COOL Funded~$3K civilian sector value

Federal Firearms License Consultant

ATF

~$5K civilian sector value

Retention & Burnout

First-Term Retention

45%

choose to reenlist

Burnout Index

5/10

Moderate

Watch Intensity

5

Hours/Day

9

Deploy Tempo

7

Manning Strain

1

Low Morale Risk

5

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.

Lifestyle5/10

Ship vs. Shore Split

66% / 34%

Sea Duty Tempo

High — 7/10

Physical Demand

high — mixed

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

3-section in port, 3-section underway

In a 3-section rotation, the crew is divided into three teams. Each team stands an 8-hour watch shift, then has 16 hours off. In port, you stand 24-hour duty roughly every 3 days — one out of every three nights you stay aboard the ship. Underway (when attached to a ship command), the watch schedule runs continuously with shorter rest periods between shifts.

Magazine security; weapons handling watch; topside safety

OPNAVINST 3120.32DUSNI ProceedingsNavy Watch Standing Manual

Life on Watch — Sea Stories

“I was standing magazine security watch at 0300 when the ship took a hard roll in heavy seas. A pallet of 5-inch rounds shifted against its restraints and one of the tie-down straps snapped. I had about two seconds to decide what to do. I wedged myself against the pallet and held it while I keyed the sound-powered phone with my other hand to call for help. Two more GMs showed up in their skivvies and we re-secured everything. The Weapons Officer bought us all breakfast the next morning.”

Veteran account (composite)

Story 1 of 5

Common Duty Stations

Naval Station NorfolkSea
Family Friendly

6.9/10

Schools + spouse jobs

Base Housing Wait

10 months

Avg waitlist for on-base

Cost of Living

95

100 = national avg

Naval Base San DiegoSea
Family Friendly

7.9/10

Schools + spouse jobs

Base Housing Wait

14 months

Avg waitlist for on-base

Cost of Living

135

100 = national avg

Naval Station MayportSea
Family Friendly
🎓

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 GM 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 standing magazine security watch at 0300 when the ship took a hard roll in heavy seas. A pallet of 5-inch rounds shifted against its restraints and one of the tie-down straps snapped. I had about two seconds to decide what to do. I wedged myself against the pallet and held it while I keyed the sound-powered phone with my other hand to call for help. Two more GMs showed up in their skivvies and we re-secured everything. The Weapons Officer bought us all breakfast the next morning.”

Veteran account (composite)

Story 1 of 5

V25C
+ more
C-School / Advanced Training— 2yr 6mo
1 follow-on school available
Shore Duty Rotation— 4yr
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

    On Billet-Based Advancement list (E-5 / E-6)

    Active-duty E-5 & E-6 now use Billet-Based Advancement (BBA)

    Advancement depends on authorized billets at the commands you're eligible to fill — not a fleet-wide cycle quota. You can use Command Advance to Position (CA2P) or Advance to Position (A2P) to sign for vacant billets and promote. MyNavy Assignment is your primary tool. Read the full Billet-Based Advancement guide.

    Project Compass— PERS-4's new billet-recommendation engine inside MyNavy Assignment — emails E-4 through E-9 Sailors up to 14 personalized billet matches before each cycle's application phase. It scores billets against your MNA preferences and qualifications, so keeping your MNA preferences current directly improves the quality of recommendations. How Project Compass works.

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

    Requirements

    • This NEC code may be awarded via CIN A-100-0094 when student is attending GM Combined "A" School Block 0 and Block 1 consecutively.
    V031Gunner's Mate (GM) Combined "A" School (BL-0)

    Knowledgeable of basic skills to perform GM entry level job tasks required of the rating prior to an initial operational tour. Standards at this level require the Sailor to perform task completely but will require further training or practice prior to the Sailor's first Fleet assignment if a follow on 'C' school is required.

    V15CNavy Afloat Maintenance Training Strategy (NAMTS) Phalanx Gun and Ammunition Handling System (PGAHS) Repair Technician

    Performs NAMTS operational and intermediate-level maintenance procedures, including repairs to the PGAHS installed on Naval Surface and Aviation platforms in support of Fleet-directed requirements. Demonstrates knowledge of operational and intermediate-level repair procedures, repair and maintenance standards, quality assurance specifications, and proper use of industrial machinery.

    V25CSurface Vessel Torpedo Tube (SVTT) Operation and Maintenance Technician

    Operation and maintenance of the SVTT Mk 32 MOD 15 and MOD 19 in accordance with operational guidelines, Combat Systems Operational Sequencing System (CSOSS), Corrective Maintenance (CM) and Planned Maintenance System (PMS).

    Requirements

    • Source Rating GM personnel must complete Apprentice Technical Training (GM ATT) Blk 0A course (A-100-0099/19XD) prerequisite, all new accessions and/or fleet returnee/PACT Sailors.
    • Source Rating GM personnel are encouraged to complete GM "A" school Blk 0 (A-100-0094) but is not required for any fleet returnee and PACT Sailors.
    • Source Rating STG personnel must complete some form of Apprentice Technical Training (ATT) as part of initial accession training or rate conversion.
    725ACombat Systems Senior Enlisted

    Performs duties as the senior enlisted principal advisor to the Combat Systems and Operations Officer as well as the Tactical Action Officer (TAO) during tactical situations. Provides tactical, technical, administrative and training expertise in all warfare areas.

    V61BMK 46 MOD 2 Gun Weapon System (GWS) Technician

    Perform planned and corrective maintenance on the MK 46 MOD 2 GWS at the organizational level onboard San Antonio (LPD) and Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) class ships. Perform casualty analysis, fault detection/isolation, modular replacement, repair, test, and alignment of individual equipment using Built-In-Test capability.

    Requirements

    • The NEC code will be awarded by completion of the formal follow-on training course currently under development or through completion of the factory training course, A-113-0039, and OJT awarded for E-3 and above with a minimum of 1-year operational experience on the MK 46 MOD 2 GWS. OJT based on Commanding Officer's recommendation. Submit NAVPERS form 1221/6 to BUPERS-312 via the ECM.
    • Member must complete Gunner's Mate Apprentice Technical Training (GM ATT) Blk 0A course (A-100-0099/19XD) prerequisite, all new accession and/or fleet returnee/PACT Sailors.
    • Member completion of Gunner's Mate "A" school Blk 0 (A-100-0094) is encouraged but not required for any fleet returnee and PACT sailors.
    V62B5"/54 Caliber Gun System MK-45 MOD 2 Maintenance Technician

    Operates and maintains the 5/54 caliber MK-45 MOD 2 Gun Mount. Uses general and special purpose electronic test equipment to perform organizational level maintenance.

    Requirements

    • Member completion of Gunner's Mate Apprentice Technical Training (GM ATT) Blk 0A course (A-100-0099/19XD) is a prerequisite for all new accession and/or fleet returnee/PACT Sailors.
    • Member completion of Gunner's Mate "A" school Blk 0 (A-100-0094) is encouraged but not required for any fleet returnee and PACT sailors. 209
    V63B5"/62-Caliber MK-45 MOD 4 Gun Mount Maintenance Technician

    Operates and maintains the 5"/62-Caliber MK 45 MOD 4 Gun Mount. Uses general and special purpose test equipment and built-in test equipment to perform organizational level maintenance. Loads, stows, and unloads 5"/62-Caliber ammunition. Inspects and maintains magazines including magazine sprinkling systems.

    Requirements

    • Member completion of Gunner's Mate Apprentice Technical Training (GM ATT) Blk 0A course (A-100-0099/19XD) is a prerequisite for all new accession and/or fleet returnee/PACT Sailors.
    • Member completion of Gunner's Mate "A" school Blk 0 (A-100-0094) is encouraged but not required for any fleet returnee and PACT sailors.
    • Members who have previously earned the V62B Component NEC must attend the A-113-2101 MK45 Mod 4 difference course only to earn this NEC code; members who have not earned the V62B Component NEC must attend the A-113-2102 course only to earn this NEC code.
    V64BMK-41 VLS Baseline V through VII Operation and Maintenance Technician

    Operates, inspects and performs organizational level maintenance on electric-powered guided missile launching systems, missile canister equipment and ordnance handling maintenance equipment for MK-41 VLS BL V and BL VII configurations. Prepares missile launcher equipment and performs the loading and unloading of gas management equipment and encanistered missiles into the launcher.

    Requirements

    • Security clearance required.
    • Member completion of Gunner's Mate 'A' School (Block 0) course (A-100-0094) and Gunner's Mate Apprentice Technical Training (Block 0A) course (A-100-0099) is a prerequisite to attending the MK 41 VLS BL III O&M Core Course (A-121-0522) for all new accession and/or GM NEC 0000 Fleet Returnee/ Professional Apprenticeship Career Track (PACT) Sailors.
    V65BMK-41 Vertical Launching System (VLS) Baseline (BL) III Operation and Maintenance Technician

    Operates, inspects and performs organization level maintenance on electric-powered guided missile launching systems, missile canister equipment and ordnance handling maintenance equipment for MK41 VLS BL III configurations. Prepares missile launcher equipment and performs the loading and unloading of gas management equipment and encanistered missiles into the launcher.

    Requirements

    • Secret security clearance required.
    • Attendance and completion of Gunner's Mate `A' School (Block 0) course (A-100-0094) and Gunner's Mate Apprentice Technical Training (Block 0A) course (A-100-0099) are prerequisites to attending the MK 41 VS BS III O&M Core Course (A-121-0522) for all new accession and/or GM NEC 0000 Fleet Returnee/Professional Apprenticeship Career Track (PACT) Sailors.
    V66BMK 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS) Advanced Technician (VAT)

    Operates, maintains, fault isolate and repair the MK 41 VLS across each of the baseline configurations to the highest level supported by the approved documentation available for the launching system.

    Requirements

    • Secret security clearance required.
    • Member must meet the Program Executive Office Integrated Warfare System Surface Launcher Systems (PEO IWS 3L) screening requirements defined in the U.S. Navy MK 41 VLS Personnel Certification Program.
    • Member must complete both NEC code V65B - MK 41 VLS Baseline (BL) III Operation and Maintenance Core Course (A-121-0522) and NEC code V64B-MK 41 VLS Baseline (BL) V/VII O&M Difference Course (A-121-0580), which are prerequisites to attending MK 41 VLS Advanced Technician Course (S-121-1000).
    • Member must complete Gunner's Mate `A' School (Block 0) course (A-100-0094) and Gunner's Mate Apprentice Technical Training (Block0A) course (A-100-0099) which are prerequisites to attending the MK 41 VLS BL III O&M Course (A-121-0522) for all new accession and/or GM NEC code 0000 Fleet Returnee/Professional apprenticeship Career Track (PACT) Sailors.
    • Commanding Officers can make recommendations for removal of the NEC code based on the member's operational or technical proficiency, professional performance and conduct. Submit NAVPERS 1221/6 with Commanding Officer's recommendation to BUPERS-312 for removal of NEC code.
    • Personnel not assigned to an RMC or ISEA V66B billet for greater than 36 months are no longer eligible to retain the NEC code. PERS-406 will submit NAVPERS 1221/6 to BUPERS-312 for removal of NEC code.
    • Other U.S. Service branches interested in the course should first contact PEO IWS 3L and the MK 41 VLS Training Support Agent at Naval Surface Warfare Center, Port Hueneme Division to review course requirements and service branch applications. 211
    V88BLCS-1 (Freedom Variant) Gunner's Mate

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

    Requirements

    • Member must hold one of the core LCS NEC codes V40B, 721B, 777B, 776B, or 778B to be awarded this NEC code.
    V95BDDG 1000 ZUMWALT Class MK 57 Vertical Launching System (VLS) Maintenance Technician

    Perform MK 57 VLS maintenance duties on board DDG 1000 ZUMWALT class ships.

    V96A57MM MK 110 Mod 0 Gun Mount Operator and Maintainer

    Operates and maintains the 57MM MK 110 Mod 0 Gun Mount. Uses general and special purpose test equipment and built-in test equipment to perform organizational level maintenance. Loads, stows, and unloads 57MM ammunition. Inspects and maintains magazines including magazine sprinkling systems.

    Requirements

    • Member completion of Gunner's Mate Apprentice Technical Training (GM ATT) Blk 0A course (A-100-0099/19XD) is a prerequisite for all new accession and/or fleet returnee/PACT Sailors.
    • Member completion of Gunner's Mate "A" school Blk 0 (A-100-0094) is encouraged but not required for any fleet returnee and PACT sailors.
    716BAdvanced Undersea Lightweight Torpedo Maintenance Technician

    Performs intermediate level maintenance on assigned torpedo and associated equipment to include troubleshooting, maintenance and the observance of handling and safety precautions. Employs knowledge of general description, operating principles and functions of all component and systems.

    Requirements

    • Member must complete Gunner's Mate Apprentice Technical Training (GM ATT) Blk 0A course (A-100-0099/19XD) as a prerequisite for all new accession and/or fleet returnee/PACT Sailors.
    • Member completion of Gunner's Mate "A" school Blk 0 (A-100-0094) course is encouraged but not required for any fleet returnee and PACT sailors.
    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.
    721BGeneral Dynamics (GD) Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Core Crew Mission Specialist

    Performs organizational level preventive and corrective maintenance, troubleshooting, fault isolation procedures, and operation of equipment for the GD Systems Suite onboard LCS class.

    Requirements

    • Member must complete required prerequisite training; GD ship unique training, and COMLSCRON training to be awarded this NEC code. Submit NAVPERS 1221/6 via COMLCSRON ONE to BUPERS-312.
    730AMiniature/Microminiature Module Test and Repair (2M MTR) Technician

    Performs corrective maintenance on circuit cards and electronic modules by troubleshooting and repairing the faulty cards and modules. Preventive maintenance will be performed periodically as scheduled by Maintenance Requirement Cards for 2M Rework Stations (Pace PRC 2000) and the primary MTR test system (AN/USM-674).

    Requirements

    • Member must recertify per the 2M MTR Certification Manual (NAVSEA TE000-AA-MAN-010/2M, NAVAIR SE-004-PQS-000).
    • The source ratings for the AN/USM-674 (CIN A-100- 0076 or S-100-7600 Operator/Maintainer) training are the same as for the 2M training courses. Completing only the AN/USM-674 (CIN A-100-0076 or S-100-7600) training provides no NEC Code however, completion of the AN/USM-674 course and earning NEC code 783A - Microminiature Electronic Repair Technician would award the technician the 730A NEC code.
    • CIN S-100-7600 and CDPs 12W4, 12W5, 12W6, 12W7, 12WA, 12ZF are for use by NAVSEA-designated personnel (LANT and PAC 2M MTR Fleet Coordinators) only.
    • For the CTT source rating only, NEC codes C00A, C02A and C04A are prerequisites for this NEC code. 248
    743BShipboard Elevator Mechanical Maintenance

    Tests, inspects, and performs organizational maintenance on shipboard weapons and cargo handling elevators on a system and component level. Troubleshoots and repairs hydraulic, mechanical and hydromechanical systems and equipment, not including electronic and electrical components and interfaces. Coordinates efforts with operators and maintainers of other ratings using or servicing the systems.

    757BExpeditionary Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (ExUUV) Supervisor

    Performs UUV operations to enable the amphibious task forces, special operations and other component commanders with intelligence preparation of the battlespace, mine countermeasures and other joint operations support.

    Requirements

    • Member must have successfully completed the required OJT/JQR as outlined in COMEODGRUTWO/ONE INST 1221.1 to earn this NEC code.
    • Submit NAVPERS 1221/6 to BUPERS-312 with Commanding Officer's endorsement.
    764AShipboard Elevator Electrical Maintenance

    Tests, inspects and performs organizational level maintenance on shipboard weapons and cargo handling elevators on a system and component level. Troubleshoots and repairs electronic/electrical systems and equipment, such as controllers, sensors, switches, and the electrical components of hydraulic/mechanical interfaces.

    772BMiniature/Microminiature Electronic Repair Inspector

    Performs annual recertification of miniature and microminiature technicians and 12-18 month 2M program validation per the 2M MTR Certification Manual (NAVSEA TE000-AA-MAN-010/2M, NAVAIR SE-004-PQS-000).

    Requirements

    • Continued NEC code qualification requires recertification per the 2M MTR Certification Manual (NAVSEA TE000-AA-MAN-010/2M, NAVAIR SE-004-PQS-000).
    • NEC code is normally assigned to E5-E8 AE and AT; and E7-E8 CTT, EM, ET, FC, FCA, FT, GM, GSE, IC, IT, MT, RW, STG and STS.
    • For the CTT source rating only, NEC codes C00A, C02A and C04A are prerequisites for this NEC code.
    773B2M Instructor

    Conducts formal training course for Miniature and Microminiature Electronic Repair, 2M Inspector, Microminiature Recertification Training and 2M Instructor culminating in certification. Applies requirements of the Standard Maintenance Practices Miniature/Microminiature (2M) Electronic Assembly Repair (NAVSEA SE004-AK-TRS-010/2M, NAVAIR 01-1A-23) Technical Manual.

    Requirements

    • Continued NEC code qualification requires recertification per the 2M MTR Certification Manual (NAVSEA TE000-AA-MAN-010/2M, NAVAIR SE-004-PQS-000).
    • NEC code normally assigned to AE, AT, EM, ET, FC, FT, GM, GSE, IC, MT, STG, STS.
    • For the CTT source rating only, NEC codes C00A, C02A and C04A are prerequisites for this NEC code.
    775BExpeditionary - Maritime Security

    Performs and executes major combat operations; security in support of counter-insurgency operations; port security/harbor defense; humanitarian assistance/ disaster response; theater security cooperation; law enforcement operations; security, stability, transition, and reconstruction operations; maritime interdiction operations.

    Requirements

    • NEC code may be awarded after completion of one year of OJT familiarization with Maritime Expeditionary Security tasks and functions while assigned to a sea duty command subordinate to Coastal Riverine Group ONE (CRG-1) or Coastal Riverine Group TWO (CRG-2). Commanding Officers shall submit NAVPERS 1221/6 for awarding of NEC code.
    • NEC code may also be awarded retroactively to source rating personnel who meet the following requirements: a. Previously earned component NEC code 804G. b. Completed a minimum 1-year tour of duty subsequent to 1 April 2009 at a sea duty command subordinate to CORIVGRU ONE (formerly Maritime Expeditionary Security Group ONE) or CORIVGRU TWO (formerly Maritime Expeditionary Security Group TWO). Includes former subordinate sea duty commands of Coastal Riverine Groups ONE and TWO.
    777BLockheed Martin (LM) Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Core Crew Mission Specialist

    Performs organizational level preventive and corrective maintenance, troubleshooting, fault isolation procedures, and operation of equipment for the LM Systems Suite onboard LCS class.

    Requirements

    • Member must complete required prerequisite training; LM ship unique training, and COMLSCRON training to be awarded this NEC code. Submit NAVPERS 1221/6 via COMLCSRON ONE to BUPERS-312.
    778BSurface Warfare (SUW) Mission Specialist

    Performs organizational level preventive and corrective maintenance, troubleshooting, fault isolation procedures, and operation of equipment for the SUW Systems Suite onboard Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) class.

    Requirements

    • Member must complete required prerequisite training; mission package (MP) unique training, and COMLSCRON training to be awarded this NEC code. Submit NAVPERS 1221/6 via COMLCSRON ONE to BUPERS-312.
    779B25mm Machine Gun System (MGS) MK 38 MOD Gun Weapon System (GWS) Technician

    Operates and maintains the 25mm MGS MK 38 MOD GWS. Performs preventive maintenance, failure detection, and fault isolation using Built-In- Test (BIT) equipment to perform organizational level maintenance.

    Requirements

    • Personnel who have previously completed CINs A-041-0003 and CIN J-041-2236 difference courses are eligible to earn NEC code 779B without completing CIN A-041-0004.
    • Personnel in other ratings in addition to AO, FC, and GM are also eligible to be awarded NEC code 779B with Commanding Officer's endorsement. Ratings other than AO, FC and GM will not be assigned to billets.
    • Member must complete Gunner's Mate Apprentice Technical Training (GM ATT) Blk 0A course (A-100-0099/19XD) as a prerequisite for all new accession and/or fleet returnee/PACT Sailors.
    • Member's completion of Gunner's Mate "A" school Blk 0 (A-100-0094) is encouraged but not required for any fleet returnee and PACT sailors.
    • Last review during "SCSTC TRR" completed 1/19/23. 269
    783BMine Warfare Planner

    Performs mine warfare planning, execution, evaluation, administration, troubleshooting and reporting using Mine Warfare Tactical Decision Aids at the operator and supervisory level.

    783AMicrominiature Electronic Repair Technician

    Performs additional repairs beyond those taught to NEC code 784A technicians, e.g., repair of flexible conductors, multilayer conductors and laminates, illuminated panels, and removal and replacement of welded lead components and surface mounted devices per NAVSEAINST 4790.17B and COMNAVAIRFORINST 4790.2B.

    Requirements

    • Continued NEC code qualification requires recertification per the 2M MTR Certification Manual (NAVSEA TE000-AA-MAN-010/2M, NAVAIR SE-004-PQS-000.
    • NEC code is normally assigned to AE, AT, CTT, EM, ET, FC, FCA, FT, GM, GSE, IC, MT, IT, RW, STG, STS, MN.
    • CIN: S-100-7300 and CDPs: 12WN, 12WP, 12WR, 12WS, 12WT are for use by the 2M MTR Fleet Coordinators only.
    • For the CTT source rating only, NEC codes C00A, C02A and C04A are prerequisites for this NEC code.
    784AMiniature Electronic Repair Technician

    Performs identification, removal and application of conformal coatings, removal and replacement of discrete and multi-lead components, preparation and installation of eyelets, repair and replacement of conductors and laminates, proper connection of wires to terminal and connector cups, and other related repairs per NAVSEAINST 4790.17B and COMNAVAIRFORINST 4790.2B.

    Requirements

    • Continued NEC code qualification requires recertification per the 2M MTR Certification Manual (NAVSEA TE000-AA-MAN-010/2M, NAVAIR SE-004-PQS-000).
    • NEC code is normally assigned to AE, AT, CTT, EM, ET, FC, FT, GM, GSE, IC, IT, MN, MT, RW, STG and STS.
    • CIN S-100-7200 and CDPs 12W8, 12W9, 12WB, 12WC are for use by 2M MTR Fleet Coordinators only.
    • For the CTT source rating only, NEC codes C00A, C02A and C04A are prerequisites for this NEC code. 271
    787ANaval Special Warfare Small Arms Organizational Level Maintenance Technician

    NEC will provide personnel with enhanced organizational level maintenance training on all small arms and gun mounts fielded by Naval Special Warfare. Personnel will possess the unique skills required to conduct preventative and limited corrective maintenance on small arms and gun mounts in support of SEAL/SDV Teams and Special Boat Teams.

    799ACauseway Barge Ferry Coxswain

    Operates Causeway Section Powered and Improved Navy Lighterage Warping Tug with 360-degree water jet propulsion system in support of amphibious operations and Maritime Prepositioned Ship operations.

    Requirements

    • Personnel may earn this NEC code by completing applicable OJT/PQS.
    • Must be a second class swimmer per NAVPERS 15560C.
    • Color vision must pass the Farnsworth lantern test of 12 to 14 Pseudoisochromatic Plates (PIP).

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