Description
Machinist's Mates (MM) operate, maintain, and repair (organizational and intermediate level) ship propulsion machinery, auxiliary equipment, and outside machinery, such as: steering gear engine, hoisting machinery, food preparation equipment, refrigeration and air conditioning equipment, windlasses, elevators, and laundry equipment; operate and maintain (organizational and intermediate level) marine boilers, pumps, forced draft blowers, and heat exchangers; perform tests, transfers, and inventory of lubricating oils, fuels, and water; maintain records and reports; and generate and stow industrial gases.
Core Skills
- mechanical systems operation and monitoring
- preventive and corrective maintenance
- pumps, valves, and piping systems knowledge
- HVAC and refrigeration fundamentals
- boiler and steam plant operations
- reading technical drawings and manuals
- use of mechanical test and alignment tools
- root cause analysis and troubleshooting
- maintenance planning and documentation
- safety and environmental compliance
- condition monitoring and inspections
- team coordination in engineering spaces
- time management under operational constraints
Common Certifications
- OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Safety
- Certified Maintenance & Reliability Technician (CMRT)
- Welding Certification (AWS)
- EPA Section 608 Technician Certification (Refrigerant Handling)
- Heavy Equipment Mechanic Certification
- Professional Engineer (PE) pathway (Mechanical)
- Boiler Operator License (state-specific)
- Building Operator Certification (BOC)
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
- Journeyman Plumber License (where applicable)
Civilian Career Paths
- MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
- FACILITIES MANAGEMENT
- CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
- MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Defense contractor jobs for MM
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Data sourced from official Navy publications and public military occupational references. Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.