Job Description

If you have a high school diploma or equivalent and an interest in computer software, hardware and networks, this is a prime opportunity to showcase your skills and advance them. As a Navy IT specialist, you will be taught to handle the responsibility of working with mainframe computers, local and wide area networks, and microcomputer systems. In an operations area, you may set up video surveillance that provides a feed to your Commander and help U.S. forces keep watch for other forces.

Specific Responsibilities

While working with potentially classified material and providing technical support to deployed units, you may also:

• Write programs to handle data for a wide variety of applications
• Operate and coordinate automated networks, datalinks and circuits
• Apply diagnostic, corrective and recovery techniques to information systems
• Collect and analyze communication signals
• Provide telecommunications and computer-related training and assistance
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on state-of-the-art equipment
• Operate and maintain a global satellite telecommunications system 

Work Environment

As a member of this field, you will ensure the all-important communications link between units anywhere – land, sea or air. Whether working on a site in the United States or ports in Korea, Japan, Australia, Okinawa, Thailand, Singapore or Bahrain, the job is extremely hands-on.

Training & Advancement

You will receive extensive Navy training that will range from technical preparation in database design to computer networking to working closely with operating communications systems. Advanced technical training may be available in computers and electronics for qualified individuals.

Education Opportunities

Much of the information technology training within the Navy qualifies for college credit, which can either be transferred to participating institutions or used toward an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.

Pay Range

For individuals working in Navy information technology, pay is dependent upon rank or rate and years in service. Like most positions, your increase in rate and rank is earned. Promotions depend upon your performance and time in service.

Qualifications

While a college degree is not necessary to become a part of this field, qualified Sailors could have the opportunity to receive special pay and benefits while attending college full-time and transitioning into the role of an Officer.

After the Navy

Jobs in information technology involve a high level of responsibility and maturity in dealing with technical equipment and classified information. Your training may also prepare you for the following civilian careers:

• Intelligence Specialist
• Computer Programmer
• Electronics Technician
• Data Communications Analyst
• Computer Systems Hardware Analyst

Whether in the civilian community or in the Navy, the experience and responsibility you will receive from a job in information technology is unique. Skills in information technology prepare you for many jobs in the high-tech industry.