GSGas Turbine Systems Technician(GS Navy Rating)
Gas Turbine Systems Technicians maintain and repair gas turbine engines, generators, and propulsion control systems on surface combatants.
Parent rating. GS (Gas Turbine Systems Technician) is a legacy umbrella that was split into two service ratings. Sailors no longer enter the Navy as generic "GS" — they are rated directly into one of the two sub-specialties:
The GS rating still exists at the senior paygrades (E-8 and E-9) as a combined leadership designator — senior GSE and GSM Sailors compress into GSCM at the top of the career ladder. For E-1 through E-7 manning and advancement data, refer to the specific sub-rating.
Overall
Quick Stats
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
Line-score options — meet any one
- AR≥52
- EI≥52
- MK≥52
Who This Is Best For
Best for individuals fascinated by turbine technology and complex mechanical/electrical systems who want strong civilian transferability to the energy sector. Power plant operations, natural gas facilities, and energy industry careers offer above-average salary potential for former GS sailors.
+Pros
- ✓Strong civilian career transition
–Cons
- ✗Significant sea duty
Real Opinions
+Positive
“Engineering rates get a bad rap but the job security and trade skills are legit. I went straight into a union job.”
“Gas Turbine Systems Technicians call themselves "The Elite of the Fleet." Few engines in the world are as powerful as a gas-turbine system on a Navy warship, and the strongest engines need Sailors with the strength and skills to support them. There is real pride in keeping a warship moving.”
–Negative & Mixed
“Underway life in engineering is hot, loud, and exhausting. You will stand watch in some miserable conditions.”
“The job is hot, dirty, long hours, but you get out of it what you put into it.”
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0 charsRecruiter vs Reality
What the recruiter says vs. what it's actually like.
🫡 Recruiter says
“Engineering rates are always in demand and you will learn a valuable trade!”
💀 Reality
Source: MyNavyRates researchThe trade skills are real but underway life in engineering spaces is hot, loud, and physically demanding. Watch rotations can be exhausting, especially on older ships.
🫡 Recruiter says
“GS has great engineering skills for civilian power plants.”
💀 Reality
Source: sailor forumsGS experience with gas turbines transfers to civilian power generation, but you need additional certifications. Many GS transition to power plant operator or marine engineering roles.
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Horror Stories
Real stories people have shared about this rate. Swipe to browse.
“USS Boxer ran the main gearbox for two hours with NO lubrication then waited 27 hours to tell the CO. The investigation found every level of senior engineering leadership failed to provide a safe work environment.”
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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 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.