ABOUT
The Navy has a long and storied history full of tradition. If you wear the “crossed anchors,” it means you’re part of one of the oldest and proudest communities of all. Boatswain’s Mates are the heart of every ship. As one of them, you’ll perform a wide range of duties, making you the jack-of-all-trades on ships and on shore. Whether you’re standing watch as a lookout, assisting as a search and rescue swimmer, or piping calls during a Navy ceremony, this job is one that comes with adventure and pride. APPLY HERE.
The mission of the Navy Reserve is to provide strategic depth and deliver operational capabilities to the Navy and Marine Corps team and Joint forces, in times of peace or war. Navy Reserve Sailors seamlessly support and actively aid that mission, all while continuing to lead their own independent lives in the civilian world.
ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES
The Boatswain’s Mate (BM) has a rich history of honored traditions. As a BM, you will supervise the maintenance of your ship inside and out, in addition to a diverse roster of other responsibilities:
- Standing watch as lookout or Boatswain Mate of the Watch
- Repairing, maintaining and stowing equipment
- Training, directing and supervising ship’s maintenance personnel
- Assisting as a search and rescue swimmer
- Operating sound-powered communication equipment
- Serving as a member of damage control, emergency and security alert teams
- Participating in Navy ceremonies
- Transferring supplies between ships while at sea
- Operating small boats, tugs, barges and other small craft
- Assisting with flight deck and amphibious operations
- Serving as flight deck crew during helicopter operations
- Supervising deck crew in cleaning, painting and maintaining the ship
- Directing boat crews in landing and rescue operations
- Teaching seamanship
PAY & BENEFITS
When you serve your country, you become a part of something truly important—and you deserve to be rewarded accordingly. Navy Reserve Sailors enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits, from state-of-the-art training to extensive educational assistance, VA benefits and more.
In return for your service and dedication, the Navy Reserve provides you with the benefits to succeed in both your military and civilian lives:
- Receive 4 days of basic pay for only 2 days worked (16 hours) each drill weekend
- Opportunities to acquire new skills and sharpen existing ones, enhancing your civilian career
- Educational assistance
- Tax-free, worldwide Navy Exchange and commissary privileges for you and your family
- VA guaranteed home loans
- Low-cost insurance options, including up to $400,000 in life insurance
- Travel opportunities
- Earn points toward retirement benefits every time you drill
- Retirement after 20 qualifying years
- TRICARE
EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
Navy Reserve Sailors continue to hold educational opportunities through Tuition Assistance, DANTES, and their post 9/11 or Montgomery GI Bill. Further education opportunities are also available through the US Naval War College and Senior Enlisted Academy, as well as certifications and licenses available through the Navy Credentialing Opportunities Online (COOL).
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
- U.S. citizen or equivalent
- High school graduate or equivalent
- 17 years of age or older
General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you’re currently serving, whether you’ve served before or whether you’ve never served before.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Sailors in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes.
Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors.