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
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 Grade | Rate | Abbreviation | Title |
---|---|---|---|
E-1 | Seaman Recruit | SR | Seaman Recruit |
E-2 | Seaman Apprentice | SA | Seaman Apprentice |
E-3 | Seaman | SN | Seaman |
E-4 | Information Systems Technician Third Class | IT3 | Petty Officer Third Class |
E-5 | Information Systems Technician Second Class | IT2 | Petty Officer Second Class |
E-6 | Information Systems Technician First Class | IT1 | Petty Officer First Class |
E-7 | Chief Information Systems Technician | ITC | Chief Petty Officer |
E-8 | Senior Chief Information Systems Technician | ITCS | Senior Chief Petty Officer |
E-9 | Master Chief Information Systems Technician | ITCM | Master 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 Grade | Less than 2 Years | Over 2 Years | Over 3 Years | Over 4 Years | Over 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.
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
School | Location | Length | Subjects Covered | Training Method |
---|---|---|---|---|
Class “A” Technical School (4YO) | Pensacola, FL | 18 weeks | Microsoft, Cisco, Oracle systems, ADP, security, network operations | Classroom & Lab |
Advanced Technical Field (6YO) Communications Class “C” | Pensacola, FL | 9 weeks | CCNA 2/Alcatel, Server, Red Hat, UNIX, CANES | Classroom & Lab |
Advanced Technical Field (6YO) System Administrator Class “C” | Pensacola, FL | 17 weeks | System security, network defense, cloud computing | Classroom & 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
Pathway | ASVAB 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: