Navy NEC · Combat & Infantry
O20A SO Candidate
A Navy Enlisted Classification: a skill designation sailors hold in addition to their rating.
Overview
A Special Operator candidate uses explosives to demolish underwater and land objects and obstacles. The candidate applies basic skills in underwater search, surveillance, beach reconnaissance, unconventional warfare, and the operational use of SCUBA.
Core Skills
- explosive demolition
- underwater search
- underwater surveillance
- beach reconnaissance
- combat diving
- scuba equipment operation
- unconventional warfare basics
- obstacle breaching
- dive safety procedures
- field surveillance
Civilian Software & Tools
- Diving logbook software
- Diving table software
- Dynamic positioning DP software
- Remote operated vehicle ROV dive log software
- Web browser software
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- Microsoft Excel
Civilian Career Paths
- Emergency Management
- Private Security
- Physical Security
- Civil Engineering
Training & Development
Getting Started
- PADI Open Water Diver
- PADI Advanced Open Water Diver
- PADI Rescue Diver
- HAZWOPER 40-Hour Certification
Career Growth
- Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) Commercial Diver Certification
- PADI Divemaster
- Certified Emergency Manager (CEM)
- ATF Federal Explosives License (FEL)
Also Common
- Professional Association of Diving Instructors Divemaster
What the Work Involves
- Take appropriate safety precautions, such as monitoring dive lengths and depths and registering with authorities before diving expeditions begin.
- Check and maintain diving equipment, such as helmets, masks, air tanks, harnesses, or gauges.
- Communicate with workers on the surface while underwater, using signal lines or telephones.
- Descend into water with the aid of diver helpers, using scuba gear or diving suits.
- Obtain information about diving tasks and environmental conditions.
Related Occupations
- Business Continuity Planners
- Riggers
- Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
- Ship Engineers
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
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.
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