Coast Guard Rating · Combat & Infantry
GM Gunner's Mate
Overview
A gunner's mate manages ordnance and operates, maintains, and repairs firearms, weapon systems, gun mounts, and related handling equipment. This specialist accounts for ammunition and pyrotechnics, maintains mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic ordnance equipment, and trains personnel to handle and use Coast Guard weapons properly.
Core Skills
- weapons systems maintenance
- armory and inventory management
- technical troubleshooting
- preventive maintenance planning
- safety and compliance documentation
- training and instruction
- risk assessment
- standard operating procedure development
- team coordination
- attention to detail
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Excel
- Computerized maintenance management system software CMMS
- Circuit evaluation software
- Database software
- Computerized inventory tracking software
- Maintenance management software
- Recordkeeping software
- Microsoft Office software
Civilian Career Paths
- Physical Security
- Private Security
- Warehouse Operations
Training & Development
Getting Started
- STCW: Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties/ Security Awareness · Funded
- Safety Trained Supervisor (STS)
- Associate Certified Electronics Technician (CETa) · Funded
Career Growth
- STCW: Vessel Security Officer (VSO) · Funded
- Antiterrorism Credential (ATC)
- Associate Protection Professional (APP) · Funded
Also Common
- Associate Safety Professional (ASP) · Funded
What the Work Involves
- Modify, maintain, or repair electronics equipment or systems to ensure proper functioning.
- Inspect, test, and measure completed work, using devices such as hand tools or gauges to verify conformance to standards or repair requirements.
- Plan, develop, and provide training and staff development programs, using knowledge of the effectiveness of methods such as classroom training, demonstrations, on-the-job training, meetings, conferences, and workshops.
- Inspect or evaluate workplace environments, equipment, or practices to ensure compliance with safety standards and government regulations.
- Examine shipment contents and compare with records, such as manifests, invoices, or orders, to verify accuracy.
Related Occupations
- First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers
- Detectives and Criminal Investigators
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics
- Calibration Technologists and Technicians
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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