Ever wondered what keeps Navy ships and aircraft detecting threats while remaining invisible to enemies?
Behind every radar ping and secure communication lies the expertise of a Navy Electronics Technician.
For those seeking technical mastery without full-time military commitment, the Navy Reserve ET path offers a compelling blend of cutting-edge technology experience and part-time service.
In 2025, this role has evolved significantly with advanced electronic warfare capabilities and increased compensation.
Let’s dive into what makes this career uniquely positioned at the intersection of civilian expertise and national defense.
Job Role and Responsibilities
Navy Reserve Electronics Technicians (ETs) operate and fix advanced electronic systems such as radar and communication tools while maintaining navigation devices which help ships and shore facilities detect threats and navigate accurately in all environments.
Daily Tasks
- System Diagnostics and Repair
Whether it’s a misfiring radar or a blacked-out comms channel, these reservists troubleshoot and fix highly complex electronic systems. Diagnostic tools like oscilloscopes and multimeters aren’t just handy—they’re essential. - Precision Calibrations
If a radar system’s even slightly off, mission integrity takes a hit. That’s why these technicians regularly calibrate navigation and detection equipment to maintain pinpoint accuracy across shipboard and shore-based platforms. - Securing Communication Networks
Handling encrypted channels means knowing how to maintain and secure cryptographic devices. A small error in this space could open the door to major vulnerabilities—so there’s zero room for sloppiness. - Keeping Records That Count
Every update, adjustment, or component replacement goes into the log. These aren’t just notes—they’re official maintenance records that anchor readiness and compliance. - Training for the Unseen Fight
Reserve members participate in simulations and exercises designed to mimic electronic warfare environments. The goal? Stay sharp, ready, and aligned with active-duty standards. - Cross-Team Coordination
Rarely a solo act, electronics specialists sync up with radar techs, IT systems maintainers, and other ratings to keep integrated platforms fully operational.
Specific Roles
The Navy ET rating includes several specialized paths through the Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC) system:
| NEC Code | Specialization | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 0000 | Basic Electronics Technician | General electronics maintenance and repair |
| 1419 | Navigation Systems Technician | Specializes in GPS and inertial navigation systems |
| 1429 | Radar Systems Technician | Focuses on radar maintenance and electronic warfare |
| 1459 | Communications Systems | Specializes in secure voice and data communications |
| 1699 | Electronic Surveillance | Manages electronic intelligence gathering systems |
Mission Contribution
The Navy’s technical capability depends heavily on the work of Electronics Technicians. ETs support maritime domain awareness by keeping electronic systems functional which helps commanders make tactical decisions with accurate information.
During weekend drills and annual training periods the Reserve component benefits from the critical technical expertise of ETs who maintain readiness for potential mobilization.
Technology and Equipment
As an ET in the Navy Reserve, you’ll work with an impressive array of technology:
- AN/SPS-73 surface search radar systems
- AN/WSC-3 satellite communications terminals
- Cryptographic equipment for secure communications
- Electronic warfare systems for signal detection and jamming
- Advanced diagnostic tools including spectrum analyzers and network testers
- Computer-based maintenance management systems
The Navy always implements the latest upgrades to its electronic systems which gives ETs access to advanced technology beyond civilian sector capabilities.
By 2025, ETs operate more frequently with diagnostic systems powered by AI and utilize equipment protected by quantum-resistant cryptographic methods.
Work Environment
Setting and Schedule
The Navy Reserve ET role offers a structured part-time commitment with varied work environments:
- Drill Weekends: One weekend per month (typically Saturday and Sunday, 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM) at your assigned Navy Reserve Center or operational support center
- Annual Training: Two consecutive weeks per year, often aboard ships or at shore facilities
- Additional Training Opportunities: Voluntary opportunities for specialized schools or extended active duty assignments
During drill weekends, you’ll typically work in climate-controlled technical spaces at reserve centers, focusing on equipment maintenance, training, and administrative tasks.
Annual training provides hands-on experience in operational environments, potentially aboard ships or at shore installations.
Leadership and Communication
Navy Reserve units maintain the same chain of command structure as active duty:
- Direct supervision comes from senior ETs (ET1, ETC)
- Division Officers oversee technical divisions
- Department Heads manage broader technical departments
Navy personnel get performance feedback during their annual evaluations and drill weekends. The Navy assessment system prioritizes technical skills development and examines leadership promise and military presence.
Quarterly counseling sessions address performance and career development for Reserve ETs.
Team Dynamics and Autonomy
Electronics Technicians operate in a balanced environment of teamwork and individual responsibility:
- Complex system repairs often require collaborative troubleshooting
- Routine maintenance may be performed independently
- Junior ETs typically work under supervision while senior ETs enjoy greater autonomy
- Decision-making authority increases with rank and experience
The technical nature of the rating demands both precision and creativity in problem-solving, particularly when diagnosing intermittent faults in complex systems.
Job Satisfaction and Retention
The ET rating maintains one of the higher retention rates in the Navy Reserve, with approximately 67% of first-term ETs choosing to continue service. Success is measured through:
- Technical proficiency demonstrated during practical evaluations
- Advancement exam scores and promotion rates
- Qualification completion and warfare device attainment
- Contributions to unit readiness metrics
Current ETs report high satisfaction with technical training opportunities and the transferability of skills to civilian careers.
The most frequently cited challenges include balancing civilian employment with military obligations and keeping pace with rapidly evolving technology.
Training and Skill Development
Initial Training
| Training Phase | Duration | Location | Content |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recruit Training (Boot Camp) | 8 weeks | Great Lakes, IL | Basic military knowledge, physical fitness, discipline |
| “A” School | 24-30 weeks | Great Lakes, IL | Basic electricity, electronics theory, troubleshooting |
| System-Specific Training | 6-10 weeks | Various locations | Training on specific equipment platforms |
The ET training pipeline is among the most technically rigorous in the Navy. “A” School covers fundamental electronics principles, including:
- AC/DC circuit theory and analysis
- Solid-state devices and digital logic
- Microprocessor fundamentals
- Electronic test equipment operation
- Basic radar and communications theory
- Technical documentation interpretation
For Reserve ETs, this initial training may be completed through the split-training option, allowing you to divide training between consecutive summers to accommodate civilian obligations.
Advanced Training
The Navy offers numerous opportunities for advanced training throughout an ET’s career:
- “C” Schools for specialized equipment certification
- Advanced electronics troubleshooting courses
- Leadership development programs
- Cybersecurity and information assurance training
- Civilian certification preparation (CompTIA, Cisco, Microsoft)
Through its funding for civilian certifications that match your military background, the Navy Credentialing Opportunities Online (COOL) program supports your career advancement in the Navy and increases your job prospects after military service.
The GI Bill together with tuition assistance programs enables candidates to obtain associate or bachelor degrees in electronics and engineering disciplines.
Physical Demands and Medical Evaluations
Physical Requirements
Electronics Technicians primarily work in technical environments that aren’t physically demanding compared to some other Navy ratings. However, all Navy personnel must maintain physical readiness standards:
- Ability to lift and carry electronic equipment weighing up to 50 pounds
- Manual dexterity for working with small components and tools
- Normal color vision for identifying color-coded wiring and components
- Ability to stand for extended periods during watch duties
- Capability to work in confined spaces aboard ships
The daily physical demands typically involve:
- Standing at workbenches for 4-6 hours
- Climbing ladders and navigating tight spaces on vessels
- Carrying tool kits and test equipment between work locations
- Occasional heavy lifting when replacing larger system components
Current Physical Readiness Test (PRT) Requirements (2025)
| Exercise | Minimum Male Score (17-19) | Minimum Female Score (17-19) |
|---|---|---|
| Plank | 1:20 (min:sec) | 1:10 (min:sec) |
| Push-ups | 42 repetitions | 18 repetitions |
| 2000m Row | 8:30 (min:sec) | 9:35 (min:sec) |
| 1.5 Mile Run | 12:30 (min:sec) | 15:00 (min:sec) |
Note: Navy personnel must complete the plank plus one cardio option (row or run) and one strength option (push-ups).
Medical Evaluations
Beyond initial entry standards, ETs must maintain:
- Normal color vision (no waivers permitted due to color-coded components)
- Hearing within specified parameters (H-2 rating or better)
- Periodic health assessments (PHAs) annually
- Dental examinations every 12 months
- HIV testing every 2 years
- Periodic electrocardiograms based on age and risk factors
Security clearance requirements also necessitate periodic psychological evaluations and drug screening.
Deployment and Duty Stations
Deployment Details
As a Navy Reservist, deployment likelihood varies based on global situations and unit assignments:
- Typical Scenario: Most Reserve ETs complete their service obligation with only drill weekends and annual training
- Mobilization Possibility: During times of national need, Reserve ETs may be mobilized for 6-12 months
- Voluntary Opportunities: Many ETs volunteer for short-term active duty assignments (ADT/ADSW) lasting 2 weeks to 6 months
Location Flexibility
Navy Reserve Centers are located throughout the United States, offering significant geographic flexibility:
- Assignments are typically based on proximity to your civilian residence
- Cross-assignment to units in different locations is possible with command approval
- Annual training locations may include fleet concentration areas like Norfolk, San Diego, or overseas bases
The Navy’s Career Management System-Interactive Detailing (CMS-ID) allows qualified reservists to apply for specific billets based on their qualifications and geographic preferences. While not guaranteed, the Reserve component offers more location stability than active duty service.
Career Progression and Advancement
Career Path
| Paygrade | Title | Time in Service (Typical) | Key Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-1 to E-3 | Seaman | 0-2 years | Basic maintenance, supervised troubleshooting |
| E-4 (ET3) | Petty Officer Third Class | 2-4 years | Independent maintenance, junior technician |
| E-5 (ET2) | Petty Officer Second Class | 4-6 years | System expert, work center supervisor |
| E-6 (ET1) | Petty Officer First Class | 6-12 years | Division leading petty officer, technical trainer |
| E-7 (ETC) | Chief Petty Officer | 12-16 years | Division Chief, program manager |
| E-8 (ETCS) | Senior Chief Petty Officer | 16-20 years | Department LCPO, technical authority |
| E-9 (ETCM) | Master Chief Petty Officer | 20+ years | Command Master Chief, rating advisor |
Advancement in the Reserve component is competitive and based on:
- Performance evaluations
- Advancement exam scores
- Time in rate
- Awards and qualifications
- Educational achievements
Role Flexibility and Transfers
The Navy offers several pathways for career evolution:
Conversion Options and Cross-Rating Paths
Reserve ETs who’ve built a solid record of performance can request a rating conversion to pursue specialized tech fields. Common destination ratings include:
- Information Systems Technician (IT) – For those more drawn to networking, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure.
- Cryptologic Technician (CT) – Ideal for those with an eye for signals intelligence, code-breaking, and national security operations.
Each conversion path requires:
- Meeting minimum time-in-rate thresholds
- Securing a formal command endorsement
- Satisfying the entry criteria of the receiving rating
- Completing a full conversion application package
Officer Opportunities Without a Four-Year Degree
The Navy Reserve allows experienced ETs to transition into commissioned officer roles through the following tracks:
- Limited Duty Officer (LDO) – Technical experts with leadership potential
- Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) – For those who want to lead without leaving their technical lane
These programs let enlisted members move up the chain without a bachelor’s degree, assuming performance and experience meet the bar.
Direct Commission for Degreed Technicians
ETs who hold a bachelor’s degree can also pursue Direct Commission Officer (DCO) programs. Target roles include:
These positions combine strategic oversight with advanced technical application, often bridging gaps between systems engineering and operational support.
Evaluations: How Performance Gets Measured
In the Reserve, every sailor’s performance feeds into advancement eligibility and future assignment decisions. Evaluations follow the same core model used across the fleet:
- EVALs for E-6 and below
- FITREPs for E-7 and up
- Trait averages scored on a 5.0 scale
- Relative rankings within peer groups
- Narrative summaries that capture actual impact—not fluff
Building a Competitive Profile as a Reserve ET
If you’re aiming for promotion, transfer, or officer commissioning, here’s what moves the needle:
- Stay sharp: Maintain your technical skills and certifications with consistent upskilling.
- Chase qualifications: Warfare pins, NECs, and advanced schools matter.
- Step forward: Volunteer for high-impact annual training assignments or cross-platform missions.
- Lead early: Take on mentoring duties or training responsibilities.
- Stay fit: Strong physical readiness scores signal commitment across the board.
- Leverage the civilian side: Formal education and industry certs give you an edge both in and out of uniform.
Compensation, Benefits, and Lifestyle
Financial Benefits
| Pay Component | Details (2025 Rates) |
|---|---|
| Drill Pay (E-4 with 4 years) | $385.92 per weekend (4 drill periods) |
| Annual Training Pay | $1,929.60 for 2 weeks (E-4 with 4 years) |
| Special Duty Pay | Up to $150/month for special qualifications |
| Enlistment Bonus | Up to $10,000 for 6-year contracts (2025) |
| Retention Bonus | $5,000-$15,000 for critical NECs (selective) |
Additional financial incentives include:
- Tax advantages on certain military allowances
- Retirement points that convert to pension after age 60 (with 20 qualifying years)
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with matching contributions up to 5%
- Special pay for hazardous duty or overseas assignments
Additional Benefits
The Navy Reserve offers comprehensive benefits:
- Healthcare: TRICARE Reserve Select ($48.47/month for individual coverage in 2025)
- Education: Montgomery GI Bill-Selected Reserve ($450/month for full-time study)
- Housing: BAH during active duty periods exceeding 30 days
- Insurance: SGLI coverage up to $400,000 at low monthly premiums
- Retirement: Blended Retirement System with defined benefit and TSP matching
- Commissary/Exchange: Tax-free shopping privileges
- Travel: Space-available travel on military aircraft
- VA Loans: Eligibility for VA home loans after 6 years of service or mobilization
Work-Life Balance
The Reserve component is specifically designed to balance military service with civilian careers:
- Predictable drill schedules published 12 months in advance
- Annual training typically scheduled 6-9 months ahead
- 30 days of military leave from civilian employment protected by USERRA
- Family Care Plan requirements for service members with dependents
- Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program for pre/post-deployment support
Risk, Safety, and Legal Considerations
Job Hazards
Electronics Technicians face several occupational hazards:
- Electrical shock from high-voltage equipment
- Radiation exposure from radar systems
- Hearing damage from equipment noise
- Eye strain from detailed electronic work
- Ergonomic injuries from repetitive tasks
- Chemical exposure from soldering and cleaning agents
Safety Protocols
The Navy implements comprehensive safety measures:
- The Navy mandates safety glasses and ESD protection as essential personal protective equipment
- Lockout/tagout procedures for electrical equipment
- Radiation safety monitoring and time limitations
- Regular safety stand-downs and training Technical manuals with detailed safety warnings
- Two-person rule for high-risk maintenance procedures
Security and Legal Requirements
The work performed by Electronics Technicians demands security clearances because it involves sensitive information.
- Secret Clearance: Minimum requirement for all ETs
- Top Secret/SCI: Required for certain specialized NECs
- Clearance Process: Background investigation, credit check, and personal interviews
- Periodic Reinvestigation: Every 5-10 years depending on clearance level
Legal obligations include:
- A Combined Active/Inactive Service Requirement Covers 8 Years of Total Military Service
- Time Service members must observe all stipulations set by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ)
- You must report security incidents and any concerns about clearances as required by regulations
- Individuals with security clearances must abide by limitations on international travel
Impact on Family and Personal Life
Family Considerations
The Reserve commitment impacts family life in several ways:
- Regular weekend absences for drill periods
- Two-week separation during annual training
- Potential for longer separations during mobilization
- Irregular communication during shipboard assignments
Support systems include:
- Family Readiness Groups providing information and assistance
- Military OneSource offering counseling and resources
- Child care subsidies during drill weekends at some locations
- TRICARE coverage for families during mobilization
- Military family life counselors at Reserve centers
Relocation and Flexibility
The Navy Reserve offers greater stability than active duty:
- Typically assigned to the Reserve center nearest your home
- Ability to transfer to different Reserve centers if you relocate
- Option to request INCONUS (within continental US) annual training
- Flexibility to reschedule drills for legitimate conflicts (with advance notice)
- Potential for authorized absences during major life events
Post-Service Opportunities
Transition to Civilian Life
ET skills directly translate to numerous civilian careers:
- Electronics repair technician
- Telecommunications specialist
- Radar/navigation systems technician
- Field service engineer
- Technical trainer
- Quality assurance specialist
- Defense contractor
The Navy provides transition assistance through:
- Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET) documentation
- Navy COOL certification funding
- Resume writing and interview preparation
- Networking with defense industry employers
- Veterans preference for federal employment
Civilian Career Prospects
| Civilian Occupation | Median Annual Salary (BLS 2025) | Projected Growth (2025-2035) |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics Engineering Technician | $67,550 | 2% |
| Telecommunications Equipment Installer | $61,470 | 3% |
| Avionics Technician | $69,280 | 5% |
| Electrical and Electronics Repairer | $63,210 | 2% |
| Computer Network Support Specialist | $71,350 | 6% |
| Broadcast Technician | $58,990 | 1% |
Whether you’re stepping into the trades, going back to school, or jumping straight into a civilian role, these programs offer hard-aligned support built for reservists ready to pivot.
- DoD SkillBridge
During your final 180 days of service, SkillBridge drops you into a civilian internship—on-the-clock, in the field, with real companies. You stay in uniform. They show you the job. Everyone wins. - Helmets to Hardhats
A straight line into construction careers. This pipeline places vets into union-backed apprenticeships and skilled labor positions—concrete roles, no guesswork. - Veterans Employment Center (VEC)
Job-matching done right. VEC aligns your military skill set with open roles, builds out your resume, and gets you in front of companies already familiar with your background. - Post-9/11 GI Bill
Not just for classroom time. Use it for degrees, certs, trade programs, or flight school. Tuition, housing, books—it’s all in the package. - VR&E (Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment)
For vets with service-connected disabilities, VR&E offers job training, career coaching, and hiring pipelines that prioritize long-term placement over short-term fixes.
Qualifications, Requirements, and Application Process
Basic Qualifications
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | U.S. citizenship required (no exceptions) |
| Age | 17-39 years old (must ship to training before 40th birthday) |
| Education | High school diploma required (GED with college credits considered) |
| ASVAB Scores | Minimum AR+MK+EI+GS=223 or VE+AR+MK+MC=223 |
| Vision | Normal color perception required (no waivers) |
| Medical | Meet Navy medical standards; no pacemakers or implanted devices |
| Legal | No felony convictions; limited misdemeanors considered case-by-case |
Application Process
- Initial Contact: Meet with a Navy Reserve recruiter
- Pre-Qualification: ASVAB testing and preliminary screening
- MEPS Processing: Medical examination and job selection
- Security Clearance: Background investigation initiation
- Enlistment: Swearing in and contract signing
- Training Pipeline: Boot camp and technical school scheduling
The process typically takes 2-6 months from initial contact to ship date, depending on background check complexity and training seat availability.
Selection Criteria and Competitiveness
The ET rating is moderately competitive, with selection based on:
- ASVAB scores (higher scores improve chances)
- Clean background for security clearance eligibility
- Interview performance with classifiers at MEPS
- Current Navy personnel needs and training seat availability
Factors strengthening your application include:
- Prior electronics experience or education
- Related civilian certifications (CompTIA A+, Network+)
- College credits in technical fields
- Clean credit history (important for clearance)
- Willingness to accept available ship dates
Is This a Good Job for You? The Right (and Wrong) Fit
Ideal Candidate Profile
The most successful Navy Reserve ETs typically possess:
- Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Patience for troubleshooting complex systems
- Attention to detail and procedural discipline
- Interest in electronics and emerging technologies
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- Comfort with technical documentation and mathematics
- Adaptability to changing priorities and technologies
Potential Challenges
This role might not be ideal if you:
- Prefer creative work with minimal structure or procedures
- Dislike technical reading or documentation
- Have difficulty with mathematical concepts
- Prefer outdoor work environments exclusively
- Struggle with periodic absences from family
- Need completely predictable work schedules
- Have difficulty obtaining or maintaining a security clearance
Career and Lifestyle Alignment
Consider how this role aligns with your goals:
Strong Match If You:
- Seek technical skills with civilian market value
- Want military benefits without full-time commitment
- Enjoy solving complex problems methodically
- Plan to pursue education in electronics or engineering
- Value structured training and clear advancement paths
Poor Match If You:
- Need guaranteed location stability
- Cannot accommodate monthly weekend commitments
- Prefer roles with minimal technical study requirements
- Have existing obligations that conflict with drill schedules
- Seek immediate leadership roles without technical expertise
More Information
Ready to explore whether the Electronics Technician path in the Navy Reserve aligns with your career goals?
Your local Navy recruiter can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation, including current bonus eligibility, training seat availability, and unit openings near your location.
They can also arrange conversations with current ETs to give you firsthand insights into this technical rating.
Visit the Navy Recruiting website or call 1-800-USA-NAVY to schedule a no-obligation consultation today.
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