This guide provides helpful information for those looking to join the Navy as a Mineman (MN) during the Fiscal Year 2025.
Navy ships use high-tech systems to spot dangers under the water—mines, wreckage, whatever’s down there. The ocean hides a lot.
As a Mineman on a Minesweeper, you find those mines. Neutralize them. Enemies leave them behind, waiting. If they’re not cleared, they can take out ships, stop missions, put lives at risk.
Your job is to make sure that doesn’t happen. Find the threats, clear the path, keep everything moving.
Job Description

Minemen (MN) are Navy enlisted Sailors who are trained in various aspects of tactical and operational Mine Warfare (MIW), Rapid Object Localization (ROL), and environmental survey. This includes expertise in mining and Mine Countermeasures (MCM) operations.
Minemen run mine warfare operations—planning, executing, making sure the path is clear. They analyze sonar, operate unmanned vehicles, sometimes drop in by helicopter, sometimes get pulled out. They track underwater threats, neutralize them, keep ships moving.
They work with surface, airborne, and expeditionary mine countermeasure systems. Maintain service mines, training mines, underwater targets. If it’s used for finding or dealing with mines, they keep it running.
They handle sonar, unmanned systems, tactical decision aids, communication gear, environmental sensors—anything that helps locate and eliminate threats.
But they’re not just focused on mines. They help with ship navigation, fueling, replenishment at sea, search and rescue, towing, anchoring, mooring, small boat operations. If it needs doing, they do it.
Weapons? That’s part of the job too. Small arms, magazine sprinklers, arms storage, ammo maintenance. They train others, supervise helicopter ops, manage weapons and explosives handling.
The job’s hands-on. Mechanical work at sea and on land. It’s physical, team-oriented.
Only about 840 of them now – going up to 930. A small, tight-knit group. Everyone depends on each other. Mental and physical strength—both matter.
Specific Responsibilities
Minemen work on minesweepers. Their job? Find mines. Make them safe. Keep ships moving.
1) Find and Identify Mines
- Use sonar and ROVs (remotely operated vehicles) to locate underwater explosives.
- Figure out what’s down there. Classify threats.
2) Neutralize and Handle Mines
- Run mine-disposal gear to make explosives useless.
- Operate forklifts, cranes, heavy equipment to move mines safely.
- Build, test, and keep mines operational when needed.
3) Fix and Maintain Equipment
- Troubleshoot electronics and wiring—things break, you fix them.
- Work with tools like grinders, sandblasters, torque wrenches, test meters.
4) Work in Command & Control
- Be part of the decision-making team on board.
- Help plan mine countermeasure (MCM) operations.
Why It Matters
Mines stop ships. Minemen stop mines. The job takes skill, focus, and hands-on work. If you don’t do it right, missions fail. No room for mistakes.
Different Roles
Mine Warfare Manager
Mine Warfare Managers oversee mine systems, maintenance, and tactical operations. Their job keeps naval missions moving and waters safe.
Manage Mine Systems
- Supervise service and training mine maintenance
- Oversee upgrades, downgrades, and equipment handling
- Control logistics, storage, and ordnance safety
Support Tactical Operations
- Use advanced technology, sensors, and unmanned systems to detect and neutralize mines
- Conduct precision navigation for mine countermeasures (MCM) operations
- Operate bathymetric and oceanographic measuring devices
Oversee Deck & Seamanship Operations
- Manage assembly, rigging, and maintenance of deck equipment
- Teach marlinespike seamanship and ship preservation
- Review logs, reports, and combat system records
Plan and Execute Missions
- Lead mission planning, briefings, execution, and debriefings
- Ensure safe passage of naval and global assets
- Perform sector defense to keep threats in check
Mine Warfare Specialist
Mine Warfare Specialists focus on mine maintenance, tactical operations, and shipboard functions. They work with cutting-edge technology to detect, neutralize, and defend against underwater threats.
Maintain Mine & Ordnance Systems
- Perform maintenance on service mines, training mines, and underwater targets
- Handle ordnance, logistics materials, and storage areas
Support Mine Warfare Operations
- Operate computers, sensors, and communication systems
- Navigate with precision using Mine Countermeasures (MCM) systems
- Deploy unmanned vehicles to locate and disable mines
Perform Seamanship & Shipboard Duties
- Operate and maintain deck equipment
- Perform ship preservation and basic seamanship tasks
Technical & Tactical Knowledge
- Apply electronics theory to Mine Warfare operations
- Plan and execute missions to ensure safe passage and sector defense
Both roles demand technical expertise, leadership, and hands-on skills to keep naval operations safe and effective.
Rank Structure
Pay Grade | Rate | Abbreviation | Title |
---|---|---|---|
E-1 | Mineman Seaman Recruit | SR | Seaman Recruit |
E-2 | Mineman Seaman Apprentice | SA | Seaman Apprentice |
E-3 | Mineman Seaman | SN | Seaman |
E-4 | Mineman Third Class | MN3 | Petty Officer Third Class |
E-5 | Mineman Second Class | MN2 | Petty Officer Second Class |
E-6 | Mineman First Class | MN1 | Petty Officer First Class |
E-7 | Chief Mineman | MNC | Chief Petty Officer |
E-8 | Senior Chief Mineman | MNCS | Senior Chief Petty Officer |
E-9 | Master Chief Mineman | MNCM | 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:
Paygrade | 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
Initial Training
After completing Boot Camp at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes, you’ll move on to specialized training, starting with:
Class “A” Technical School
- Location: Point Loma, CA
- Duration: 19 weeks
- Focus: Learning mine detection and neutralization skills
- Training Methods: Group instruction
Once you complete training, you may be assigned to a minesweeper, where you’ll put your skills to use in real-world operations.
Advanced Training & Career Growth
Promotion opportunities exist but are competitive and based on performance.
For those who advance in their careers, additional training is available, covering more complex Mine Warfare operations and leadership development. Those with a college degree and leadership aspirations may pursue Officer roles, leading and training others.
Post-Service Opportunities
The skills and certifications earned as a Mineman translate to civilian careers in fields like:
- Explosives handling and disposal
- Logistics and inspection
- Operations and project management
Service Expectations
During a 20-year Navy career, Minemen typically spend:
- 40% of their time at shore facilities
- 60% assigned to minesweepers
The job is highly specialized, but the training and experience gained can lead to valuable career opportunities both in and out of the Navy.
Qualifications to Join
To become an Enlisted Sailor and a Mineman, you need a high-school diploma or equivalent and must be a U.S. citizen eligible for security clearance.
Basic Requirements
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen
- Security Clearance: Required
- Color Perception: Must have normal color vision
ASVAB Score Requirements
- VE + AR + MK + MC = 210
or - VE + AR + MK + AS = 210
Skills & Attributes
A successful Mineman should have:
- Strong math, writing, and communication skills
- Mechanical aptitude and ability to work with complex systems
- Good memory and attention to detail for intricate tasks
- Manual dexterity for handling small parts and tools
- Teamwork skills to operate effectively in a high-stakes environment
- Curiosity, resourcefulness, and flexibility to adapt to new challenges
Additional Considerations
General qualifications may vary based on whether you are currently serving, have served before, or are enlisting for the first time.
This is a hands-on, technical role that requires precision, problem-solving, and the ability to work under pressure.
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 Mineman (MN), 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: