Navy Information Systems Technician (IT): Definitive Guide (2025)

This guide provides helpful information for those looking to join the Navy as an Information Systems Technician (IT) during the Fiscal Year 2025.

Ships. Subs. Bases. They all run on networks, and Information Systems Technicians (ITs) make sure they don’t go down. Secure comms, cyber defense, satellite links—everything flows through you.

When systems fail, you fix them. When threats come, you stop them. No lag. No downtime. The mission depends on you.

Ready to keep the Navy online? Start here.

Job Description

navy-it-insignia
IT Insignia – Credit: U.S. Navy

Information Systems Technicians (ITs) keep the Navy’s communications up and running. They build, secure, and maintain networks—handling message traffic, radio systems, cybersecurity, and IT support for Navy operations worldwide.

They operate global satellite systems, manage classified comms, and stop cyber threats before they disrupt the mission. From installing hardware to securing classified networks, ITs keep information flowing where it needs to go—fast and secure.

ITs are stationed on ships, submarines, and shore commands. They work in high-tech, climate-controlled spaces, troubleshooting everything from radio frequencies to global data links.

With around 10,000 ITs in the Navy, competition is tough. This job demands technical skill, problem-solving, and relentless attention to security—because when comms go down, everything stops.

Specific Responsibilities

  • Set up, maintain, and troubleshoot Navy networks and comms systems.
  • Secure classified communications and handle encrypted data.
  • Operate and manage satellite, radio, and cybersecurity systems.
  • Write software, manage databases, and develop IT solutions.
  • Support intelligence and warfare operations with real-time network security.
  • Train personnel on system operations and cybersecurity best practices.

Whether on land, at sea, or under the ocean, ITs are the backbone of the Navy’s digital infrastructure.

Different Roles

Communication Security Manager

Keeps classified networks locked down. Runs security programs, manages policies, plans for emergencies, and enforces security rules to keep sensitive info safe.

Cyber Defense Incident Responder

When cyber threats hit, these guys jump in fast. Tracks, analyzes, and shuts down digital attacks before they cause real damage.

Cyber Defense Infrastructure Support Specialist

Tests, updates, and keeps defense systems running. Makes sure security hardware and software are in top shape so Navy networks stay tight.

Information Systems Security Manager

Big picture security. Handles policy enforcement, security planning, risk management—makes sure the Navy’s digital front lines don’t get breached.

Radio Frequency Operator

Runs radio comms and encrypted signals. Keeps transmissions clear, monitors frequency activity, and makes sure enemy ears aren’t listening in.

System Administrator

The go-to for all things IT. Installs, fixes, and keeps servers, computers, and networks running without a hitch.

Systems Security Analyst

Watches everything on the network. Scans for threats, locks down security gaps, and keeps classified systems untouchable.

Technical Support Specialist

Fixes tech problems fast. Helps Sailors with hardware, software, and network issues so nothing slows the mission down.

Vulnerability Assessment Analyst

Hunts for weak spots before enemies do. Runs security tests, finds system flaws, and recommends fixes to keep hackers out.

Rank Structure

Pay GradeRateAbbreviationTitle
E-1Seaman RecruitSRSeaman Recruit
E-2Seaman ApprenticeSASeaman Apprentice
E-3SeamanSNSeaman
E-4Information Systems Technician Third ClassIT3Petty Officer Third Class
E-5Information Systems Technician Second ClassIT2Petty Officer Second Class
E-6Information Systems Technician First ClassIT1Petty Officer First Class
E-7Chief Information Systems TechnicianITCChief Petty Officer
E-8Senior Chief Information Systems TechnicianITCSSenior Chief Petty Officer
E-9Master Chief Information Systems TechnicianITCMMaster 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.

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-IT-Rating-Information-Systems-Technician-Image-704X396

Training and Career Opportunities

Boot Camp & Initial Training

After Recruit Training Command (Boot Camp) in Great Lakes, IL, ITs and ITSs head for specialized training:

  • Class “A” Technical School
    • ITs: 24 weeks in Pensacola, FL
    • ITSs: 24 weeks in Groton, CT
    • Covers Microsoft, Cisco, and Oracle software and hardware, cybersecurity, automatic data processing (ADP), and system operations
SchoolLocationLengthSubjects CoveredTraining Method
Class “A” Technical School (4YO)Pensacola, FL18 weeksMicrosoft, Cisco, Oracle systems, ADP, security, network operationsClassroom & Lab
Advanced Technical Field (6YO) Communications Class “C”Pensacola, FL9 weeksCCNA 2/Alcatel, Server, Red Hat, UNIX, CANESClassroom & Lab
Advanced Technical Field (6YO) System Administrator Class “C”Pensacola, FL17 weeksSystem security, network defense, cloud computingClassroom & Lab

First Assignments

  • ITs: May go to a ship, shore station, or communication center
  • ITSs: May be stationed on a submarine, shore station, or communication center

Advanced Training (Later in Career)

  • Specialized schools for communications, network administration, cybersecurity, and system management
  • Officer roles available for those with a college degree and leadership ambitions

Post-Service Opportunities

  • IT experience translates directly to civilian careers in tech, including:
    • Network administration
    • Cybersecurity
    • Software development
    • Information security

Assignments & Career Path

  • ITs: Serve on all types of ships, shore stations, and communication centers worldwide
  • ITSs: Serve on submarines, shore stations, and communication centers
  • TAR ITs: Train and administer Selected Reserve Personnel

Time Split:

  • 50% at sea (fleet units)
  • 50% ashore (shore stations)

What’s Next?

The IT/ITS field is critical to Navy missions. Tech skills, security expertise, and advanced systems training—all of it prepares you for high-stakes operations and serious career potential after service.

Qualifications to Join

Basic Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • U.S. citizen (no exceptions)
  • Top Secret security clearance required (background investigation included; all immediate family members must be U.S. citizens)
  • Normal hearing & speech required (specific frequency limits apply; any level exceeding 45db in one frequency disqualifies the applicant)
  • Normal color perception required

Skills & Attributes

  • Strong math, writing, and communication skills
  • Ability to work with computers and technology
  • Attention to detail, record-keeping, and teamwork skills
  • Good manual dexterity & physical strength (for handling equipment and technical work)
  • Willingness to serve aboard submarines (ITS applicants only)

ASVAB Score Requirements

PathwayASVAB Requirement
IT/SG (4-Year Obligation)AR + MK + EI + VE = 212 -OR- VE + MK + GS = 156 -OR- CT + MK + VE = 156 AND CT = 60
IT/ATF (6-Year Obligation)VE + AR + MK + GS = 214 -OR- VE + MK + GS = 156 -OR- CT + MK + VE = 156 AND CT = 60

Security & Background Checks

  • SSBI (Single Scope Background Investigation) required
  • Must qualify for Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access (Top Secret clearance reviewed every five years)

Important Notes

  • If you have a speech impediment or hearing issues exceeding set limits, you are ineligible for this rating.
  • Strong tech skills, teamwork, and attention to detail are essential.
  • No exceptions for dual citizenship—if family members are not U.S. citizens, applicants may be disqualified.

This is a high-stakes field—cybersecurity, network management, and classified data handling. Only top candidates make the cut.

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 an Information Systems Technician (IT), 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 in Intelligence and Information Warfare:

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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