Army MOS · Logistics
88K Watercraft Operator
Overview
A Watercraft Operator performs mariner duties on Army watercraft and amphibians. They also supervise other personnel assigned to these craft.
Core Skills
- vessel operations and navigation
- cargo handling and load planning
- shipboard safety and emergency procedures
- logistics and movement coordination
- crew supervision and training
- maintenance oversight and reporting
- radio and maritime communications
- documentation and logkeeping
- teamwork and coordination
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Office software
- Apple macOS
- Autodesk Revit
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
Civilian Career Paths
- Transportation Management
- Fleet Management
- Supply Chain Management
- Project Management
Training & Development
Getting Started
- National Able Seafarer (A/B)
- National Master 100 GL and Inland
- National Master 100 NC
- STCW - Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC), Proficiency in Survival Craft-Limited (PSC-Limited), Proficiency in Fast Rescue Boats
- STCW: Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties/ Security Awareness · Funded · Promotion points · STAR
Career Growth
- Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) · Funded · Promotion points · STAR
- GMDSS Radio Operator License (DO)
- National 2nd Mate Unlimited OC or NC
- National 3rd Mate Unlimited OC or NC
- National Master 200 NC
What the Work Involves
- Direct courses and speeds of ships, based on specialized knowledge of local winds, weather, water depths, tides, currents, and hazards.
- Prevent ships under navigational control from engaging in unsafe operations.
- Serve as a vessel's docking master upon arrival at a port or at a berth.
- Consult maps, charts, weather reports, or navigation equipment to determine and direct ship movements.
- Steer and operate vessels, using radios, depth finders, radars, lights, buoys, or lighthouses.
Related Occupations
- Sailors and Marine Oilers
- Motorboat Operators
- Ship Engineers
- Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
Formerly Known As (Legacy)
Retired codes that converted into 88K. Each legacy page documents the cited history.
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
Report an error on this page