Submarine Electronics

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About

The most secretive of Navy vessels, a submarine requires a select community of specially trained professionals to operate its classified, highly advanced hardware. The Sailors in the Submarine Electronics Computer Field (SECF) work with a submarine's sonar, weapons, communications, and navigation systems. The training is rigorous, and the career opportunities are equally impressive.

Responsibilities

Within Submarine Electronics, there are four distinct focus areas that have their own training paths and job descriptions.

• Fire Control Technician (FT) – Operate, test, and maintain submarine combat control systems. Participate in weapons handling functions and operate and maintain non-tactical computer systems and peripherals. Responsible for weapons including torpedoes, Tomahawk cruise missiles, and nuclear ballistic missiles.
• Sonar Technician, Submarine (STS) – Specialize in underwater acoustic technologies. Operate a submarine's sonar, oceanographic equipment, and auxiliary sonar to conduct underwater surveillance, collect scientific data, and track enemy targets. Perform maintenance on classified sonar hardware.
• Electronics Technician (ET / RF AND ET / NAV) – Focus on installing, administering, and maintaining onboard communications and navigation systems. ET / RFs work with submarine radio communication equipment, systems, and programs. ET / NAVs specialize in submarine navigation and radio equipment, systems, and programs.

There are also electronics careers that require advanced nuclear training and involve working with nuclear reactor control, propulsion, and power generation on Navy nuclear-powered submarines or aircraft carriers.

Work Environment

As a Navy Submarine electronics specialist, you may serve at sea or ashore, operating and repairing systems and equipment on Navy submarines at bases, ports of call, or while underway in undisclosed ocean waters. Deployments are secret and stealthy; your time on a submarine may last for several months, sometimes with little or no time on the surface.

Training & Advancement

Upon completion of initial 7–9 week Recruit Training (Boot Camp), pursue positions in the Navy submarine electronics field report to Basic Enlisted Submarine School in Groton, CT, for 4 weeks of instruction in basic submarine systems. From there, Sailors attend "A" School in Groton, CT, to receive formal Navy schooling in their specialty area.

Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. Specialized training received and work experience gained can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields.

Education Opportunities

Navy technical and operational training in submarine electronics can translate to credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate degree through the American Council on Education. You may also continue your education through :

Qualifications & Requirements

A high school diploma or equivalent is required to become an Enlisted Sailor in the Submarine Electronics field in the Navy. Applicants must be U.S. citizens who can meet eligibility requirements for a security clearance. General qualifications may vary based on whether you're currently serving, have served before, or have never served.

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