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 operations moving. 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 qualify on equipment and watchstations, you will gain increased responsibility, developing leadership skills through structured training and progression. The role requires a mix of operational support and technical maintenance, ensuring safety and efficiency in high-tempo settings.

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, often following the tempo of flight operations, which includes nights, weekends, and deployments.

Training & Advancement

The journey begins with Recruit Training followed by rating-specific training, such as Aviation Boatswain's Mate (H) A School. Continued development is driven 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 Navy e-learning, college network opportunities, and leadership development focused on technical skill and intellectual growth. Training is documented through systems like the Joint Services Transcript.

Education & Career Growth

Education benefits are available through standard Navy programs, including Tuition Assistance, the Post-9/11 GI Bill, ACE-recommended college credit for Navy training, Navy COOL-funded certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on your status, training, and current Navy policy.

How to Apply

To enlist as an Aviation Boatswain's Mate candidate, you must meet general enlistment standards, including eligibility to serve in the United States Navy, a high school diploma or equivalent, and specific age, medical, vision, and character requirements. Additional qualifications include the ability to work safely around aircraft in high-noise environments and the physical stamina to perform duties on flight lines. For the most accurate information regarding specific requirements, incentives, and current opportunities, please confirm details with an official Navy recruiter or authoritative Navy source.

Equal Opportunity

The United States Navy is an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants regardless of background, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.