Navy Fire Control Technician (FT): Definitive Guide (2025)

This guide provides helpful information for those looking to join the Navy as a Fire Control Technician (FT) during the Fiscal Year 2025.

Submarines don’t just hide—they strike when needed. And every weapon on board runs through Fire Control Technicians (FTs).

From calibrating missile launch systems to inspecting cruise missiles to launching them when it counts, your job is to make sure the sub’s firepower is always ready to go.

No errors. No second chances. If you’re ready for this job, let’s go.

ENLISTMENT BONUS: Future Navy FTs are currently eligible to receive up to $35K in cash bonus just for signing up.

Job Description

navy-ft-insignia
FT Insignia – Credit: U.S. Navy

Fire Control Technicians (FT) are Navy enlisted Sailors who carry out maintenance on submarine combat control systems equipment at an organizational and intermediate level. These Sailors operate, test, and maintain these systems, as well as take part in weapons handling functions and operate non-tactical computer systems and peripherals.

FTs work on submarines, both in the U.S. and overseas. Most of their work happens indoors, in clean, temperature-controlled spaces. Sometimes, they work in shore-based shops.

Around 1,100 Sailors serve in this role, with a five-year active duty commitment. They don’t work alone. They’re part of a team, always under supervision.

FTs spend about 60% of a 20-year career in fleet units, 40% on shore duty.

What They Do

Fire Control Technicians (FTs) specialize in submarine combat systems. They maintain, operate, and repair advanced weapon systems, including guided missiles.

  • Test, repair, and calibrate electronic combat systems.
  • Operate weapon control and combat systems on submarines.
  • Assist with handling and securing weapons.
  • Maintain non-tactical computer systems.
  • Use hand and power tools for maintenance and repairs.

Their job is critical. Submarines rely on them to stay combat-ready.

Different Roles

Combat Control Systems Manager

Oversees operations, maintenance, and training in the Combat Systems division. Manages how weapons are used and handled.

Combat Control Systems Operator

Runs submarine combat control equipment. Operates and maintains complex electronic, electrical, and mechanical systems. Works with Submarine Warfare Federated Tactical System (SWFTS) and helps handle weapons.

Combat Control Systems Technician

Handles advanced maintenance and operations for submarine combat control systems. Keeps SWFTS systems running, supervises personnel, and assists with weapons handling.

Rank Structure

Pay GradeRateAbbreviationTitle
E-1Seaman RecruitSRSeaman Recruit
E-2Seaman ApprenticeSASeaman Apprentice
E-3SeamanSNSeaman
E-4Fire Control Technician Third ClassFT3Petty Officer Third Class
E-5Fire Control Technician Second ClassFT2Petty Officer Second Class
E-6Fire Control Technician First ClassFT1Petty Officer First Class
E-7Chief Fire Control TechnicianFTCChief Petty Officer
E-8Senior Chief Fire Control TechnicianFTCSSenior Chief Petty Officer
E-9Master Chief Fire Control TechnicianFTCMMaster Chief Petty Officer

Salary and Benefits

Salary for the First 6 Years

Monthly pay for Navy enlisted Sailors (E-1 to E-6) in the first six years is laid out in the January  2025 Active Duty Pay chart:

Pay GradeLess than 2 YearsOver 2 YearsOver 3 YearsOver 4 YearsOver 6 Years
E-1$2,108.10$2,108.10$2,108.10$2,108.10$2,108.10
E-2$2,362.80$2,362.80$2,362.80$2,362.80$2,362.80
E-3$2,484.60$2,640.60$2,800.80$2,800.80$2,800.80
E-4$2,752.20$2,892.90$3,049.80$3,204.30$3,341.40
E-5$3,001.50$3,203.70$3,358.80$3,517.20$3,763.80
E-6$3,276.60$3,606.00$3,765.00$3,919.80$4,080.60

Extra Pays and Allowances

  • Housing Allowance (BAH): For members living off-base. Covers rent, based on rank, location, and if they have dependents.
  • Subsistence Allowance (BAS): Enlisted get $465.77 monthly for food.
  • Hazard Duty Pay: For dangerous jobs. Pays $150-$250 per month, depending on the job.
  • Sea Pay: For those assigned to ships or deployed units. Depends on rank and time at sea, from $50 to $750 a month.
  • Submarine Duty Incentive Pay (SUBPAY): Up to $1,000/month based on qualifications and assignment.
  • Special and Incentive Pays: Bonuses for certain roles, like air traffic control or unique skills. These can be a few hundred to thousands per year.

Source: Figures are from the Defense Finance and Accounting Service.

Benefits

  • Healthcare: Active-duty personnel are eligible for free complete medical and dental treatment. Tricare programs are inexpensive for families to use.
  • Housing Accomodation: Depending on location, rank, and family size, free on-base accommodation or a tax-free housing allowance (BAH) for off-base living are available.
  • Food: Monthly Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) for food costs is known as the “food allowance.”
  • Blended Retirement System (BRS): Conventional pensions are no longer available to active-duty personnel. Rather:
    • Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): Up to 5% in government matching and automatic contributions.
    • Retirement Pay: After 20 years of service, you’re eligible for monthly payments according on the BRS formula, which combines TSP savings with a calculated pension.
  • Education:
    • Availability of tuition assistance programs that pay for all or part of college tuition.
    • Support for higher education under the post-9/11 GI Bill.
    • Navy College Program to support education while on service.
  • Life Insurance: Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) provides coverage up to $500,000.
  • Vacation: ten or more federal holidays plus thirty days of paid vacation each year.
  • Extra Benefits:
    • Exchanges and commissaries provide tax-free purchasing.
    • Discounted travel via military resorts, access to fitness centers, and leisure amenities.
Navy-FT-Rating-Fire-Control-Technician-Image-704X396

Training and Career Opportunities

FTs belong to an elite, well-trained community. High standards. High responsibility.

Initial Training

After Boot Camp at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes, you move to specialized training:

  • Basic Enlisted Submarine School8 weeks in Groton, CT. Learn submarine systems.
  • Class “A” Technical School & Specialty Pipeline School18 weeks in Groton, CT. Training in electronics, math, and computer theory.
  • Some FTs continue to “C” School for advanced maintenance and computer skills.

Training Breakdown

SchoolLocationLengthFocusMethod
Basic Enlisted Submarine SchoolGroton, CT9 weeksSubmarine systemsGroup instruction, hands-on training
Class “A” & Specialty Pipeline SchoolGroton, CT18 weeksElectricity, electronics, computer skillsClassroom, hands-on labs

After training, assignments include fast attack submarines, ballistic missile submarines, or shore stations in the U.S. or overseas. Promotions? Competitive. Based on performance.

Advanced Training & Career Growth

Later in your career, advanced FT training may be available. Leadership roles? Possible—with experience, performance, and a college degree. Officers opportunities are available to those who qualify.

Post-Service Opportunities

Your training and experience translate well into civilian jobs—electrical engineering, telecommunications, and other technical fields. Learning happens on the job and in formal Navy schooling.


Service & Advancement

  • All applicants must review and sign the Submarine Volunteer Statement of Understanding.
  • Enlistment starts at E-1 (Seaman Recruit). Advancement to E-2, E-3, and E-4 requires meeting time-in-rate and performance requirements.
  • Top graduates from initial training can advance to E-4 (Petty Officer Third Class) faster—but they must extend their enlistment by one year (total six-year obligation).

Opportunities & Pay

  • Placement is strong for qualified applicants.
  • FT Rating: ~1,100 Sailors in active duty.
  • 5-year service obligation (4 years + 1-year extension).
  • Submarine pay: $75 to $600/month (after completing Basic Enlisted Submarine School).

Qualifications to Join

Requirements to Become an FT

To enlist as a Fire Control Technician (FT), you need:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • U.S. citizenship and eligibility for security clearance.
  • Strong arithmetic, writing, and speaking skills.
  • Understanding of computers and ability to do detailed work.
  • Good manual dexterity and some physical strength.
  • Ability to work in a team and keep accurate records.
  • Willingness to serve aboard submarines.

Commitment & Testing

  • Service obligation: 5 years (4-year enlistment + 1-year extension).
  • ASVAB score requirement:
    • AR + MK + EI + GS = 218 or
    • OR VE + AR + MK + MC = 218

The enlistment qualification requirements above are current as of Fiscal Year 2025, per the Navy Personnel Command. This information is not readily available to the public.

So, contact your local Navy Enlisted Recruiter for the most current requirements to join the Navy as an enlisted Sailor.

More Information

If you wish to learn more about becoming a Fire Control Technician (FT), contact your local Navy Enlisted Recruiter. They will provide you with more detailed information you’re unlikely to find online.

You may also be interested in the following related Navy Enlisted jobs:

Ted Kingston
I’m a Navy veteran who used to serve as a Navy recruiter. This website is the most reliable source of information for all Enlisted Navy Sailor aspirants. In coordination with a network of current and former Navy recruiters, my goal is to make reliable information easily available to you so you can make informed career decisions.

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