Navy Rating · Support
711X Boatswain (Surface) CWO
Overview
Surface Boatswains plan, supervise, and direct deck and navigation personnel as they perform operational and maintenance functions. They administer training programs, organize seamanship and navigation exercises, assign duties, and coordinate deck activities.
Core Skills
- operations and maintenance management
- navigation and seamanship oversight
- training program development and delivery
- safety and risk management
- personnel supervision and scheduling
- standard operating procedure (SOP) development
- incident response and emergency management
- cross-department coordination
- checklist and compliance management
- team leadership in high-risk environments
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Project
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Microsoft Word
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
Civilian Career Paths
- Transportation Management
- Facilities Management
- Project Management
- Training and Education
Training & Development
Getting Started
- National Able Seafarer (A/B)
- National Master 100 NC
- National Master 200 NC
- National Master 200 OC
- National Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessel Less Than 100 GRT
Career Growth
- Amateur Radio Service Operator License: Amateur Extra Class
- Associate Safety Professional (ASP)
- Certified Safety Professional (CSP)
- National 2nd Mate Unlimited OC or NC
- National 3rd Mate Unlimited OC or NC
What the Work Involves
- Prepare staff work schedules and assign specific duties.
- 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.
- Direct courses and speeds of ships, based on specialized knowledge of local winds, weather, water depths, tides, currents, and hazards.
- Consult maps, charts, weather reports, or navigation equipment to determine and direct ship movements.
Related Occupations
- Logisticians
- Instructional Coordinators
- Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
- Sailors and Marine Oilers
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: a four-year degree or equivalent experience.
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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