Boatswain's Mate: Deck & Small-Boat Operations

U.S. Navy; Pearisburg (VA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

U.S. Navy Boatswains Mate is a frontline seamanship expert responsible for deck operations, watchstanding, and maintenance duties across ships. You’ll handle small boats, oversee cargo handling, and support flight deck tasks while ensuring safety and readiness at sea and in port.

The role emphasizes teamwork, physical endurance, and adherence to Navy procedures, with opportunities to lead junior Sailors as you progress through qualification and advancement programs.

Qualifications

• Eligibility to serve in the United States Navy, which may involve citizenship or residency requirements.
• High school diploma or equivalent for enlisted positions; bachelor’s degree for officer positions.
• Meeting age, medical, vision, and dental standards with screening and fitness requirements.
• Additional qualifications can include specific skills, education, licensure, or experience reviewed with a recruiter.

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.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent for enlisted positions; a bachelor or qualifying professional degree for officer positions

Job description

U.S. Navy Boatswains Mate is a frontline seamanship expert responsible for deck operations, watchstanding, and maintenance duties across ships. You’ll handle small boats, oversee cargo handling, and support flight deck tasks while ensuring safety and readiness at sea and in port.

The role emphasizes teamwork, physical endurance, and adherence to Navy procedures, with opportunities to lead junior Sailors as you progress through qualification and advancement programs.