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Home/Rates/MM
Machinists Mate sailor
Machinists Mate rating badgeMM

Machinists Mate(MM Navy Rating)

Machinists Mates operate and maintain ship propulsion systems including steam turbines, reduction gears, and associated auxiliary equipment. Nuclear-trained MMs serve on submarines and carriers.

Overall

5.4/10
Burnout5.2
Lifestyle4.0
Civilian ROI6.6
Happiness5.0
Manning %5.6
$$$ Pay7.5

Quick Stats

Enlistment Bonus$40,000
Civilian Sector Transferability$60k–$120k
Advancement OutlookStrong opportunity
Manning %92%
Initial Contract4 yr, 5 yr, 6 yr
Medical RequirementsNone listed

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

Temporary cut-score in effect through September 30, 2026. Reverts to permanent standard afterward.

Current (temporary) line-score options — meet any one

  • VE+AR+MK+AS≥180
  • VE+AR+MK+AO≥185
Calculate your score →

Who This Is Best For

Best for mechanically inclined individuals who want deep understanding of how complex propulsion systems work together. Transferable skills for power plant operations, marine engineering, and industrial maintenance careers. Ideal for someone who prefers comprehensive mechanical knowledge over surface-level generalization.

+Pros

  • ✓Active enlistment bonus available
  • ✓Strong opportunity advancement outlook
  • ✓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.”

r/navy|
✓

“Overall very rewarding and well-paying for the military. A good Machinist's Mate will never be short of civilian career opportunities — HVAC technician, operating engineer, non-nuclear power plant work. I learned amazing skills working on engines and fuel systems that carried directly into civilian life.”

Indeed|

–Negative & Mixed

✗

“Underway life in engineering is hot, loud, and exhausting. You will stand watch in some miserable conditions.”

r/newtothenavy|
⚬

“Over the course of service, the Navy can be both the best and worst experiences, with sailors learning a lot but at the cost of their sanity.”

Indeed|

Page 1 of 3

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Recruiter 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 research

The 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

“MM has good advancement opportunities.”

💀 Reality

Source: navy data

MM advancement has been average to below average in recent cycles. Check the current promotion percentages before assuming fast advancement.

Page 1 of 6

😱

Horror Stories

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

💀

“A valve bonnet blew off a high-pressure steam line aboard USS Iwo Jima flooding the boiler room with 850-degree superheated steam. Ten of eleven sailors died. The valve had been repaired with wrong-material brass fasteners by a contractor.”

Source: washingtonpost.com|

Story 1 of 8

Share a horror story about MM

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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

✓

“Engineering rates get a bad rap but the job security and trade skills are legit. I went straight into a union job.”

r/navy|
✓

“Overall very rewarding and well-paying for the military. A good Machinist's Mate will never be short of civilian career opportunities — HVAC technician, operating engineer, non-nuclear power plant work. I learned amazing skills working on engines and fuel systems that carried directly into civilian life.”

Indeed|

–Negative & Mixed

✗

“Underway life in engineering is hot, loud, and exhausting. You will stand watch in some miserable conditions.”

r/newtothenavy|
⚬

“Over the course of service, the Navy can be both the best and worst experiences, with sailors learning a lot but at the cost of their sanity.”

Indeed|

Page 1 of 3

Share your opinion about MM

0 chars
Select one:

Recruiter 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 research

The 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

“MM has good advancement opportunities.”

💀 Reality

Source: navy data

MM advancement has been average to below average in recent cycles. Check the current promotion percentages before assuming fast advancement.

Page 1 of 6

😱

Horror Stories

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

💀

“A valve bonnet blew off a high-pressure steam line aboard USS Iwo Jima flooding the boiler room with 850-degree superheated steam. Ten of eleven sailors died. The valve had been repaired with wrong-material brass fasteners by a contractor.”

Source: washingtonpost.com|

Story 1 of 8

Share a horror story about MM

0 chars
Permanent standard (after September 30, 2026)
  • VE+AR+MK+AS≥188
  • VE+AR+MK+AO≥193

Training Pipeline — Total ~22 weeks (5 months)

8w
14w
Boot Camp— 8 weeks
RTC Great Lakes, IL
Basic military training for all recruits
A-School— 14 weeks
Great Lakes, IL
6.3% washoutDifficulty: 2.6/10
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.

5 mo
1 mo
1yr 5mo
6 mo
1yr 6mo
Training Complete— 5 mo
Pipeline finished (~5 mo) — Great Lakes, IL
First Duty Station— 6 mo
Likely sea duty assignment
NEC Specialization Options— 1yr 11mo
41 specializations available
U00AU28AU30A

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★★★★

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

  • ▼

    Manning

    E5 86%E6 97%
    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)

  • ▲

    Initial Enlistment Bonus

    Yes — active bonus

    The Navy currently pays an enlistment bonus to new recruits who select this rate. An active bonus usually signals the community is short on accessions, which is the same pressure that keeps senior billets open.
  • ▲

    Overall Selective Reenlistment Bonus (SRB) Outlook

    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

All Active CNRC Enlistment Incentives

Active Duty

Source: CNRC GENADMIN 24 JUL 26 — effective Jul 27, 2026, contracts authorized through Dec 31, 2026 (NDAA 2026)

Active Component only. Reservist (SELRES) shipping bonuses are set by a separate CNRF incentive message — ask your recruiter.

Bonuses can stack up to the rating's EB cap; LRP is independent. Footnote numbers match the source GENADMIN.

Source-Rate Bonus (EBSR)

Earned at school graduation; only EB type that can be partially recouped.

NUC-NF

FY26

$40,000[1]

NUC-NF

FY27

$30,000[1]

NUC-NF · SUBVOL

FY27

$10,000[1, 10]

Shipping Bonus (EBSHP)

Earned at RTC graduation. Cannot be recouped post-RTC. AFQT ≥ 31 required.

NUC-NF

13 July FY26 – 30 September FY27

$25,000[1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]

Loan Repayment Program (LRP)

Stacks on top of EB cap. AFQT ≥ 50, ~25% tax withheld, DD 2475 required per payment.

NUC-NF

October–September Any

Up to $65,000[1]

EBSR Notes

  • 1See OPNAVINST 1160.9A (the EB Program Instruction) for payment guidance.
  • 10Additional bonus for Nuclear Field Future Sailors who volunteer for submarine duty (SUBVOL). Requires a completed SUBVOL NAVPERS 1070/613 "Page 13" and the "Submarine Volunteer" checkbox set in the applicant record before the bonus is added to the Annex. SUBVOL status is verified before shipping.

EBSHP Notes

  • 1EBSHP eligibility exists only while the FS is in DEP — they may not reclassify at RTC. Earned and payable upon RTC graduation. Cannot be recouped due to post-RTC reclassification or separation.
  • 2NRC classifiers must list EBSHP separately on the NAVCRUIT 1133/52 Enlistment Guarantee.
  • 3EBSHP is intended to fill shipping gaps during the authorized window. Recruiters should not advise FSs to roll out and back in to chase a bonus.
  • 4Future Sailors must have an AFQT score of 31 or higher to be eligible for EBSHP.
  • 5If the Navy itself moves a Sailor's ship date to align with an A-school class convening date, the EBSHP entitlements are preserved on the Annex and SOU.
  • 6

Always verify with a recruiter before signing — eligibility depends on AFQT, education tier, security-clearance adjudication, ship date, and program availability. Funding subject to congressional reauthorization of 37 USC § 331.

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.

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.

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.

U59ADeck Systems Mechanical Technician

Performs organizational mechanical maintenance on the various deck equipment and systems to include Amphibious Assault, Boat Handling, UNREP, Anchoring and Hull Outfitting Equipment.

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

Active (unchanged)

🟢

Third Reenlistment (10 to 14 yrs Active Duty)

$30,000

Max

Active (unchanged)

U68ASteering Gear Systems Mechanical Technician

Potential Civilian Post-Navy Outcomes

Industrial Machinery Mechanic

Transferability: 6.5/10

$60k–$120k

Nuclear Plant Operator

Transferability: 9/10

$80k–$130k

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

$60K

Year 5

$88K

Year 10

$115K

10-year growth: +92%

Free Certifications & Credentials

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

Certified Welder

AWS

COOL Funded~$6K civilian sector value

OSHA 30-Hour Safety

OSHA

COOL Funded~$3K civilian sector value

Retention & Burnout

First-Term Retention

45%

choose to reenlist

Burnout Index

5.2/10

Moderate

Watch Intensity

5

Hours/Day

9

Deploy Tempo

7.5

Manning Strain

2

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.

Lifestyle4/10

Ship vs. Shore Split

75% / 25%

Sea Duty Tempo

High — 7.5/10

Physical Demand

high — indoor

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 underway, 4-section in port

In a 4-section rotation, the crew is divided into four teams. Each team stands a 6-hour watch shift, then has 18 hours off before their next watch. In port, you stand 24-hour duty roughly every 4 days — meaning you stay aboard the ship overnight on your duty day.

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 standing throttleman on a destroyer doing 28 knots through heavy seas when the OOD called for an emergency back full. I slammed the throttles and the entire ship shuddered like it was going to tear itself apart. Turns out a fishing vessel had appeared out of nowhere in the fog. We missed it by maybe 200 yards. The whole engine room crew was white-knuckling their stations. The Engineering Officer came down afterward and said our response time was textbook. My hands didn't stop shaking for an hour.”

Veteran account (composite)

Story 1 of 6

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 MM 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 throttleman on a destroyer doing 28 knots through heavy seas when the OOD called for an emergency back full. I slammed the throttles and the entire ship shuddered like it was going to tear itself apart. Turns out a fishing vessel had appeared out of nowhere in the fog. We missed it by maybe 200 yards. The whole engine room crew was white-knuckling their stations. The Engineering Officer came down afterward and said our response time was textbook. My hands didn't stop shaking for an hour.”

Veteran account (composite)

Story 1 of 6

U14A
+ more
C-School / Advanced Training— 2yr 5mo
1 follow-on school available
Shore Duty Rotation— 3yr 11mo
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.
Average
+0 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 →

    Nuclear Field FSs classified into ship dates outside the authorized window because of security-clearance adjudication remain eligible for EBSHP.

    LRP Notes

    • 1Future Sailor must access into Active Component and have LRP listed as a guarantee on their current Annex to DD Form 4 (NAVCRUIT 1133/52). The NRC LRP Manager approves prior to a new Annex being generated. LRP can stack with all other EB types up to its own $65,000 maximum. Applicants need AFQT 50+, must submit a DD 2475 for each payment, and roughly 25% of each payment is withheld for taxes (a W-2 is issued).

    Cross-cutting Policy Notes

    • 1Future Sailors with Tier 3 education credentials (e.g., HiSET / GED / alternative credential) are NOT authorized any EB.
    • 2Prior-service members re-enlisting onto Active Duty must enter at pay grade E-4 or below, must not have received a bonus on their first enlistment, and (Navy prior-service) must have been separated from active duty for at least 12 months before shipping.
    • 3EBHS (EB for High School) is currently NOT AUTHORIZED in this message — distinct from prior cycles when EBHS was offered.
    • 4During lapsed appropriations, classifiers may still include EB on a contract if the DD 1966 carries the funding-availability disclaimer; payment is then subject to a future appropriation.
    • 5Bonuses are paid in installments. Only the unearned portion of EBSR is eligible for recoupment; EBSHP/EBPST cannot be recouped due to post-RTC reclassification or separation.

    Performs Organizational or Intermediate Level Preventive Maintenance (PM) and Corrective Maintenance (CM) on shipboard steering systems to include operation and troubleshooting.

    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

    Active (unchanged)

    🟢

    Third Reenlistment (10 to 14 yrs Active Duty)

    $30,000

    Max

    Active (unchanged)

    U00ALCS-1 (Freedom Variant) Engineering Plant Technician (EPT)

    Cross-trained in main propulsion and support systems, auxiliary systems, electrical systems, Damage Control (DC) systems, and the Main Propulsion Control and Monitoring System (MPCMS).

    U28ALAMPS MK III RAST Mechanical Maintenanceman

    Performs organizational maintenance on Recovery Assist, Securing and Traversing (RAST) system hydraulic and mechanical subassemblies. Removes and replaces failed modules and piece parts.

    Requirements

    • Course prerequisite is K-652-2146 Engineering Hydraulic Systems and Components Basic.
    U30AAuxiliary Systems Technician

    Performs at the organizational level, operational procedures and preventive and corrective maintenance on auxiliary systems onboard CG-47 and DDG- 51 and DDG-1000.

    U14ACryogenics Technician, Overseas Shore Based Equipment Operator/Maintainer

    Operates, tests, inspects, and performs organizational and intermediate level maintenance on shore based (overseas) high and low pressure liquid oxygen and nitrogen generating plants in the manufacture of liquid oxygen and liquid nitrogen. Tests liquid oxygen and liquid nitrogen for purity and acetylene contamination.

    U16AShipboard Engineering Plant Program Manager

    Administers, manages and evaluates shipboard engineering programs. Recognizes engineering systems and major components external to the propulsion plant which comes under the cognizance of the Engineering Officer of the Watch (EOOW). Evaluates operating conditions and makes recommendations to the engineering officer.

    Requirements

    • Members in paygrades E6 must be EOOW, Chief of the Watch or RCO (LCS ships) qualified and billeted to Afloat Training Group to earn this NEC.
    • Successful completion of any of the CINs listed awards NEC code U16A. Separate attendance of the Senior Enlisted Propulsion Engineering course (A-651-0110) is not required.
    • Members in engineering Source Ratings must be EOOW, Chief of the Watch or RCO (LCS ships) qualified: DC, HT and MR ratings must be EOOW, Chief of the Watch or RCO )LCS ships) qualified for the ship class they are being assigned to earn this NEC code.
    • DC, HT, and MR ratings must have approval from gaining command.
    U17ANAMTS Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technician

    Performs Navy Afloat Maintenance Training Strategy (NAMTS) intermediate-level support procedures including inspecting, troubleshooting, and repairing air conditioning systems and compressors in support of Fleet-directed requirements.

    U18ANAMTS Heat Exchanger Repair Technician

    Performs Navy Afloat Maintenance Training Strategy (NAMTS) intermediate-level maintenance procedures in the inspection, repair, and testing of heat exchangers and related components in support of Fleet-directed requirements.

    U34ANAMTS Outside Machinist

    Performs Navy Afloat Maintenance Training Strategy (NAMTS) intermediate-level on all types of main propulsion systems, equipment, and auxiliary machinery in support of Fleet-directed requirements. Demonstrates knowledge of intermediate-level repair procedures, repair and maintenance standards, quality assurance specifications, and proper use of maintenance industrial machinery.

    Requirements

    • Award of this NEC code is based on documented completion of tasks for this skill; demonstration of advanced-level proficiency during hands-on training; and production work specified in the current JQR located at https://navsea.navy.deps.mil/field/CNRMC/NAMTS/jqrs.aspx. Training is led by journeyman-level craftsmen and supplemented by appropriate self-paced instruction consistent with Department of Labor journeyman certification.
    U46CDamage Control (DC) Elite Firefighter

    Performs as the ships Firefighting Tactics Technical Expert and serve as the Damage Control Training Team (DCTT) technical expert and lead trainer.

    U57ASenior Auxiliary Engineer

    Masters-level technician to manage and supervise operations and maintenance of various shipboard auxiliaries and deck systems to include Amphibious Assault, Boat Handling, UNREP, Anchoring and Hull Outfitting Equipment. Management and supervision of equipment material condition assessments, preventive maintenance, trend analysis and troubleshooting, and corrective maintenance.

    U65AAmphibious Command Ship (LCC)/Landing Helicopter Dock (LHD) Steam Plant Operations (SPO) Qualified

    Identifies personnel who have completed an assignment onboard a qualifying LCC/LHD platform and are SPO qualified.

    Requirements

    • Member must have served on an LCC or LHD platform and qualified in NAVEDTRA 43521-0B LHD-1 Engineering Officer of the Watch (EOOW) PQS or NAVEDTRA 43132-OC LCC-19 Class Engineering Officer of the Watch (EOOW) PQS; for lower watchstations NAVEDTRA 43708-LHD-1 Main Propulsion PQS or NAVEDTRA 43723-LCC-19 Class Main Propulsion PQS.
    • Member must submit NAVPERS 1221/6 endorsement and copies of documentation reflecting qualifications achieved to BUPERS-312 for awarding of this NEC code.
    U65BMain Propulsion Steam Generating Plant Inspector (SGPI) Candidate

    Identifies members who are potential SGPI candidates.

    Requirements

    • Member must complete pre-requisite "C" school course CIN: A-651-0116 Boiler/Feedwater Test and Treatment Chelant Supervisor as outlined in S9221-D2-MMA-010 Steam Generating Plant Inspector (Non-Nuclear).
    • Member must submit NAVPERS 1221/6 with Commanding Officer's endorsement to BUPERS-312 for awarding of this NEC code.
    • Member to retain Component NECs for billet and tracking purposes. 174
    U66AMechanical Habitability Auxiliary Technician

    Performs mechanical preventive maintenance, troubleshooting and corrective maintenance tasks at the journeyman level on galley, laundry and solid waste processing equipment onboard all Naval Surface Ship classes.

    U69ALCS-1 (Freedom Variant) Readiness Control Officer (RCO)

    Cross-trained in Main Propulsion and Support systems, Auxiliary systems, Electrical systems, Damage Control systems and the Main Propulsion Control and Monitoring System (MPCMS). Serve in supervisory and watch team management as well as advanced technical positions as RCO at sea and Engineering Duty Officer (EDO) in port.

    U74ZCVN Propulsion Plant Non-Nuclear Engineer

    Operates and performs organizational level maintenance on mechanical systems for surface ship nuclear propulsion plants and support equipment.

    Requirements

    • Member must be serving in CVN Reactor Department to be eligible.
    • NAVPERS 1221/6 must be signed by the currently serving Reactor Officer and must verify note (1) above.
    • Final screening for NEC code approval will be conducted by Nuclear Enlisted Program Manager, OPNAV (N133D).
    700ILanding Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) Maintenance Chief

    Performs, supervises and provides oversight in LCAC maintenance operations.

    Requirements

    • Member must complete either LCAC Mechanical Systems Maintenance Technician or LCAC Electrical Systems Maintenance Technician courses to earn this NEC code.
    • Member must complete the LCAC Maintenance Chief PQS; and passed the LCAC Maintenance Chief oral board to earn this NEC code. 234
    700JLanding Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) Propulsion and Auxiliary Systems Maintenance Technician

    Performs Organizational and Intermediate Level Maintenance on LCAC-100 Propulsion and Auxiliary Systems.

    Requirements

    • Member must complete the LCAC-100 Maintainer Differences Trainer.
    • Member must submit NAVPERS 1221/6 with Commanding Officer's endorsement to BUPERS 312 for awarding of this NEC code.
    701CLanding Craft Utility Craftmaster

    Directs movement of Landing Craft Utility (LCU) in Amphibious assault operations. Directs docking and undocking in landing types (LHA, LHD, LPD, LSD), beaching and retracting, loading stowage, and security of equipment and supplies in the various ship and shore movement assault elements.

    Requirements

    • Must be ESWS qualified; second class swimmer per NAVPERS 15560C; no eval mark below 3.0 in the last 36 months; no record of NJP or financial problems in the last 36 months; minimum ASVAB WK+AR=104 (waiverable); no PRT failures in the past 36 months. Must be eligible for a secret clearance. Night blindness will be cause for rejection. Color Vision must pass the Farnsworth lantern test of 12 to 14 Pseudoisochromatic Plates (PIP). Member must have a 2-year obliserve requirement to be awarded the NEC. Submit NAVPERS 1221/6 with completed qualifications to BUPERS-312 to be awarded this NEC code.
    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).
    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.
    730BLCAC Mechanical Systems Maintenance Technician

    Performs organizational and intermediate level maintenance on LCAC propulsion and lift systems.

    734BSteam Propulsion Maintenance Supervisor

    Supervises organizational level maintenance and conducts onboard maintenance training on conventional propulsion boilers, steam propulsion engines, forced draft blowers, associated machinery, ship service turbine generators (SSTG), steam plant controls/regulating components (less automatic boiler controls), supporting auxiliary equipment, valves and piping systems.

    Requirements

    • Accession Sailors are not eligible to attend the prerequisite CIN training without an approved waiver.
    736BNAMTS Pump Repair Technician

    Performs Navy Afloat Maintenance Training Strategy (NAMTS) organizational and intermediate-level maintenance procedures, inspecting and repairing marine main propulsion and auxiliary pumps and associated equipment in support of Fleet-directed requirements.

    741BHigh and Low Pressure Cryogenic Technician

    Operates, tests, inspects, and performs organizational and intermediate level maintenance on high and low pressure liquid oxygen and nitrogen generating plants. Tests liquid oxygen and liquid nitrogen for purity and acetylene contamination. Performs required checks on O2N2 compressed gas cylinders prior to and after charging them to the proper pressure.

    Requirements

    • Type II or Universal certification in accordance with EPA mandate is required.
    • Member must have completed a minimum of twenty-four (24) months of shipboard experience working on and maintaining 02 N2 Plant and the Commanding Officer's recommendation in order to attend the prerequisite formal training.
    742BRefrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems Technician

    Starts, operates, performs organizational and/or intermediate level maintenance and overhauls all types of refrigeration, cooling and air conditioning equipment utilizing centrifugal or reciprocating compressors, including accessories and controls. Identifies abnormal conditions and corrects malfunctions that may lead to inadequate refrigeration, cooling or air conditioning.

    748BBoiler Repair Technician

    Performs intermediate and organizational level maintenance on marine propulsion boilers. Reviews and maintains records and reports pertinent to boiler repair.

    750BAutomatic Boiler Controls Console Operator

    Stands watch on Automatic Boiler Control Console, identifies abnormal in-plant conditions that lead to emergencies and/or casualties, and initiates corrective or emergency actions/procedures when such conditions arise.

    Requirements

    • Personnel requesting this NEC code must have completed a minimum of 12 months shipboard experience.
    • Prerequisite Component NEC U65A not required for MMN personnel.
    • Must submit NAVPERS 1221/6 with Commanding Officer's recommendation to BUPERS-312 for awarding of this NEC code. 257
    751BElectronic Automatic Boiler Controls Maintenance Technician

    Performs organizational level maintenance on electronic automatic boiler controls systems, steam plant control systems (chameleon), boiler combustion monitoring systems, boiler ignitor system. Maintenance includes preventive and corrective maintenance, troubleshooting, calibration, and testing on system and subsystem components.

    Requirements

    • Accession Sailors are not eligible to attend the prerequisite CIN training without an approved waiver.
    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.
    761ANAMTS Hydraulics Repair Technician

    Performs Navy Afloat Maintenance Training Strategy (NAMTS) organizational and intermediate-level maintenance procedures on hydraulic systems and components of propulsion machinery, auxiliary equipment, and outside machinery in support of Fleet-directed requirements.

    Requirements

    • Award of this NEC code is based on documented completion of tasks for this skill; demonstration of advanced-level proficiency during hands-on training; and production work specified in the current JQR located at https://navsea.navy.deps.mil/field/CNRMC/NAMTS/jqrs.aspx. Training is led by journeyman-level craftsmen and supplemented by appropriate self-paced instruction consistent with Department of Labor journeyman certification.
    768AOil Analysis Operator/Evaluator

    Performs analysis and evaluation of oils/lubricants. Uses spectrometric analysis to evaluate oil/lubricants for wear metals. Uses physical property tests to evaluate oil/lubricants for properties such as viscosity, particulate presents, water, or other chemical presents and flash point. Maintains records of analytical data. Performs trend analysis.

    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.
    789AUnmanned Undersea Vehicle (UUV) Operator

    Performs duties as a member, or in support of a UUV activity, to include sortie planning, launch and recovery, local or remote watch, post mission analysis, and organizational level maintenance.

    Requirements

    • To be eligible for this NEC Code member must have: a. Qualified on a Navy UUV system. b. Completed at least two weeks of formal classroom instruction on the operation and maintenance of UUVs (e.g., factory schooling, university short-course, MK-18 operator course, etc.). c. Completed twelve months of OJT and primary duties involved UUV operations.
    • Reserve Force members may satisfy the OJT requirement by 100 days of Annual Training (AT) and Active Duty for Training (ADT) or 18 months of Individual Duty for Training (IDT) and AT in support of UUV operations.
    • Submit NAVPERS 1221/6 to BUPERS-312 with endorsement from UUV activity. 277
    799BBasic MK 18 Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) Operator and Maintainer

    Performs system operation and maintenance, sonar image interpretation, sensor data analysis, and mine warfare mission execution essentials of the MK 18 UUV Family of Systems (FoS) to safely and effectively conduct assigned tasking.

    Requirements

    • Must be eligible to hold a SECRET security clearance.
    • Personnel must be currently filling a UUV Operator and Maintainer billet or in route to an operational command or learning site where the MK 18 FoS is currently being utilized to earn this NEC code. 283
    U15AEDLCPO Rating Enhancing Shore Duty

    Track personnel who have completed an assignment to a qualifying command and are deemed suitable for potential selection as an Engineering Department Leading Chief Petty Officer (EDLCPOs, otherwise known as Top Snipe).

    Requirements

    • Only Surface, Non-Nuclear members may be awarded this NEC code.
    • Petty Officers are eligible for award if they are candidates for fast tracking to EDLCPO - contact PERS-402.
    • Member must complete prerequisite OJT and PQS training as determined by the certifying command.
    • Member must also complete an EOOW PQS and be designated in writing as an EOOW by the Commanding Officer.
    • Member must submit NAVPERS 1221/6 with Commanding Officer's endorsement to BUPERS-312 for awarding of this NEC Code.
    • Member must complete prerequisite OJT and PQS training as determined by the certifying command.
    • Member must also complete an EOOW PQS and be designated in writing as an EOOW by the Commanding Officer.
    • Member must submit NAVPERS 1221/6 with Commanding Officer's endorsement to BUPERS-312 for awarding of this NEC Code.
    • Member must complete prerequisite OJT and PQS training as determined by the certifying command.
    • Member must also complete an EOOW PQS and be designated in writing as an EOOW by the Commanding Officer.
    • Member must submit NAVPERS 1221/6 with Commanding Officer's endorsement to BUPERS-312 for awarding of this NEC Code.
    • Member must complete prerequisite OJT and PQS training as determined by the certifying command.
    • Member must be designated in writing as the Top Snipe by the Commanding Officer and must submit NAVPERS 1221/6 with Commanding Officer's endorsement to BUPERS-312 for awarding of this NEC Code.

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