Boatswain’s Mate — Deck Operations & Seamanship

U.S. Navy; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition Assistance

Post-9/11 GI Bill

Navy COOL certifications

Job summary

U.S. Navy Boatswains Mate role on surface ships involves seamanship, deck operations, and managing equipment and cargo handling. You will oversee small boats, flight deck support, and security watches while advancing through on‑ship qualifications.

Expect outdoor, physically demanding work with rotations and high tempo evolutions, enabling leadership opportunities within the deck department and across shipboard teams.

Qualifications

• Eligibility to serve in the United States Navy, including citizenship/residency and work status.
• High school diploma or equivalent for enlisted positions; bachelor’s for officer paths.
• Age limits vary by program and are set by policy.
• Medical, vision, and dental standards are required, some roles stricter.
• Security clearance when required for rating or designator.

Responsibilities

• Stand watch as helmsman, lookout, and Boatswains Mate of the Watch.
• Operate small boats and support flight deck and amphibious operations.
• Repair and maintain deck equipment and exterior ship surfaces.
• Conduct underway replenishment and cargo handling at sea.
• Stand security watches in port and underway and participate in naval ceremonies.

Skills

Teamwork

Safety procedures

Communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Bachelor's degree for officer positions

Job description

U.S. Navy Boatswains Mate role on surface ships involves seamanship, deck operations, and managing equipment and cargo handling. You will oversee small boats, flight deck support, and security watches while advancing through on‑ship qualifications.

Expect outdoor, physically demanding work with rotations and high tempo evolutions, enabling leadership opportunities within the deck department and across shipboard teams.