Navy NEC · IT & Cyber

H16A Senior Cyberspace Operator (Networks)

Current service use not established

This code is listed in the directory. Inclusion alone does not confirm current service use.

A Navy Enlisted Classification: a skill designation sailors hold in addition to their rating.

Overview

A Senior Cyberspace Operator specializing in networks uses advanced software applications and protected techniques to navigate operational network infrastructure. They conduct tactical forensic analysis specifically targeting that infrastructure.

Core Skills

Tactical forensics of operational networks
Network navigation using protected techniques

Civilian Career Paths

Career associations are editorial assessments of the cited evidence, not an official crosswalk unless the evidence explicitly says so. O*NET supplies civilian occupation information, not proof of a military match. Related experience does not confer civilian qualifications. Tasks and tools below describe civilian work, not military training.

Digital Forensics Analysts

Tactical forensic analysis of operational network infrastructure transfers directly to the network-focused work of digital forensics analysts.

How to prepare: Complete a civilian network-forensics lab that combines log analysis with evidence preservation, documenting how digital media are handled under applicable legal procedures.

What the civilian work involves

Adhere to legal policies and procedures related to handling digital media.
Analyze log files or other digital information to identify the perpetrators of network intrusions.
Create system images or capture network settings from information technology environments to preserve as evidence.

Civilian tools and software (examples)

Linux
Python
Splunk Enterprise

Notes & Sources

Evidence for this guidance (2 documents)

NAVPERS 18068F Vol II (NEOCS, Jul 2026 edition): NEC H16A
[1] NEC entry "H16A - Senior Cyberspace Operator (Networks)"; cached text line 6192; NAVPERS 18068F Vol II, 2026-07 edition
Supports: Tactical forensics of operational networks, Network navigation using protected techniques, Digital Forensics Analysts (O*NET 15-1299.06)
O*NET: Digital Forensics Analysts
[2] O*NET 30.3 occupational data
Supports: Digital Forensics Analysts (O*NET 15-1299.06)

Defense contractor jobs for H16A

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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