Aviation Operations & Support

About the Role

Aviation Boatswain's Mates in Aviation Operations & Support are the backbone of naval aviation, responsible for launching and recovering aircraft quickly and safely from both ships and shore stations. You will work directly on flight decks and in hangar bays, handling aircraft movement, spotting, and securing, while operating the specialized support equipment that keeps aviation operations running. With experience, you may earn advanced designations that involve leading and supervising multiple aviation boatswain's mate specialties.

What to Expect

Your duties will directly support aviation operations in diverse environments, blending operational support with hands-on equipment and maintenance tasks. As you progress, you will gain increased responsibility by qualifying on specific equipment and watchstations, completing personnel qualification standards, and developing leadership skills through structured training. This role is designed for those who thrive in fast-paced, safety-critical situations and are eager to grow their technical and professional knowledge.

Work Environment

You will work primarily in shipboard and shore station aviation environments, including flight decks, hangar bays, and flight lines. This role involves routine exposure to jet blast, rotor wash, high noise levels, heat, weather, and moving equipment. Operations occur in a wide range of climates at sea and ashore and often follow the tempo of flight operations, which can include nights, weekends, and deployments.

Training & Advancement

Your journey begins with Recruit Training followed by rating-specific training, such as Aviation Boatswain's Mate (H) A School. Continued development is supported by Personnel Qualification Standards and refresher training in areas like non-skid quality assurance, crash and salvage, and advanced shipboard firefighting. Professional growth is reinforced through the Navy e-learning system, college network opportunities, and leadership development programs. Training is documented through systems like the Joint Services Transcript, ensuring your technical skills and intellectual growth are recognized.

Application & Next Steps

To enlist as an Aviation Boatswain's Mate candidate, you must meet general Navy enlistment standards, including eligibility to serve in the United States Navy, a high school diploma or equivalent, and specific age, medical, vision, and dental requirements. You must also meet character and conduct standards and achieve required test scores, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB).

Reserve opportunities may exist for Selected Reserve billets when authorized, potentially requiring specific Navy Enlisted Classifications or a willingness to attend required training upon accession.

For the most current information on incentives, bonuses, and specific eligibility requirements, please confirm details with an official Navy recruiter or an authoritative Navy source. This description serves as a general overview and does not replace official Navy instructions, policies, or contracts.