Navy Operations Specialist (OS): Definitive Guide (2025)

This guide provides helpful information for those looking to join the Navy as an Operations Specialist (OS) during the Fiscal Year 2025.

Ever think about being the one everyone relies on during a high-stakes Navy mission?

As an Operations Specialist (OS) in the U.S. Navy, that’s exactly what you’ll be. It’s no ordinary job.

You’ll handle radar systems, ship navigation, and mission-critical communications—sometimes all at the same time.

Challenging? Definitely. But it’s also a serious adventure.

Let’s break it down—what you’ll do, the training, the pay, and what life as an OS really feels like.

What Does an Operations Specialist in the Navy Do?

navy-os-insignia

Operations Specialists (OS) perform critical roles in maintaining operational readiness and tactical situational awareness. They serve as plotters, radio-telephone operators, and Command and Control sound-powered telephone talkers, while also maintaining Combat Information Center (CIC) displays of strategic and tactical information.

OS personnel operate surveillance and altitude radar systems, Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) equipment, and associated technologies, in addition to functioning as Air Traffic Controllers for both helicopters and fixed-wing supersonic jet aircraft.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Serve as watch supervisors and section leaders, ensuring operational effectiveness during watch conditions;
  • Interpret and evaluate tactical presentations and scenarios to provide recommendations to supervisory personnel;
  • Apply comprehensive knowledge of doctrine and procedures relevant to CIC operations, as outlined in U.S. Navy Instructions, Allied publications, and Naval Oceanographic Office guidance for radar navigation;
  • Deliver technical information and assistance to the command on matters related to Anti-Surface Warfare, Anti-Air Warfare, Anti-Submarine Warfare, Amphibious Warfare, Mine Warfare, Naval Gunfire Support, search and rescue operations, and other operational areas within the scope of the Operations Specialist’s expertise.

Trivia: The Combat Information Center functions as the central hub for mission coordination and tactical decision-making, facilitating real-time situational awareness and operational planning.

Navy OS Specific Roles

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OS – Combat Air Controller

Combat Air Controllers guide assigned aircraft in all sorts of warfare situations, whether it’s a single mission or a full-on complex operation.

They use tools like radios, radars, and other tech to manage fixed-wing or rotary aircraft from land, carriers, or their own ship.

Their job? Keep flights safe, pass along critical info, offer directions, and step in during emergencies.

They also use aircraft as an extension of their ship’s weapons system—basically turning planes into another layer of firepower.

OS – Electronic Systems Operator

Electronic Systems Operators are the tech wizards. They’re in charge of starting up, configuring, and monitoring various electronic systems and Command and Control (C2) setups.

This includes consoles, computers, radars, and radar displays. They also operate Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems, data links, comms equipment, and electronic charting systems.

In short, they keep the ship’s high-tech equipment running and fully functional.

OS – Navigation and Plotting Specialist

Navigation and Plotting Specialists are all about safe navigation. They assist the Navigation Officer in making sure the ship avoids trouble in both open oceans and tight inland areas.

They compute maneuvering boards to navigate safely around other ships or obstacles and maintain critical displays and plots.

These include Search and Rescue (SAR) ops, Amphibious Warfare (AMW), Undersea Warfare (USW), Naval Surface Fire Support (NSFS), and Surface Warfare (SUW), as well as keeping tabs on weather, navigation, and anchoring operations.

OS – Operations Administrator

Operations Administrators handle a wide range of behind-the-scenes coordination. They develop and execute communication plans for the ship and oversee unit Search and Rescue (SAR) efforts.

They draft official messages, manage classified materials, review logs and records, and run briefs and debriefs.

They also help plan combat systems training scenarios and coordinate special operations preparations. Essentially, they’re the glue that keeps operations organized and running smoothly.

OS – Warfare Operator

Warfare Operators are on the front lines of defense and offense. They analyze threats—whether they’re coming from the air, sea, undersea, space, or ballistic missiles—and make recommendations on how to handle them.

They coordinate data link operations, manage communications, and track and report contact information. These operators interpret geographical and strategic plots, assist with decision-making during active watch conditions, and keep warfare area situational awareness sharp.

Plus, they operate the latest tactical and strategic warfare systems to help maintain control of the battlespace.

How to Become a Navy Operations Specialist

Future Sailors who want to be Operations Specialists must be U.S. citizens and meet all security standards. You should be able to do basic math, understand how modern computers work, speak and write clearly, work well with others, do detailed work, and keep accurate records. You should also be physically strong and have good dexterity.

Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Naval Operations Specialist (OS)

1. Meet the Eligibility Requirements

a. Education Requirements
  • High school diploma or GED is the minimum.
  • Bonus points if you’ve dabbled in math, physics, or anything involving maps.
b. ASVAB Scores

To qualify, you’ll need one of these score combos:

  • VE (Verbal Expression) + MK (Math Knowledge) + CS (Coding Speed) = 148, or
  • AR (Arithmetic Reasoning) + 2MK + GS (General Science) = 198
c. Other Requirements
  • U.S. citizenship is non-negotiable.
  • Be at least 17 years old (with parental approval) or 18 without parental consent.
  • You need solid physical fitness (don’t worry, they’ll whip you into shape). Plus, your color perception and dexterity need to be on point.
  • Keep your legal record clean—no major infractions or drug use allowed.

2. Contact a Navy Recruiter

  • Find and contact a Navy recruiter to explore your interest in the Operations Specialist position.
  • Get complete information on OS duties, job roles, and career possibilities.
  • Schedule and finish the ASVAB exam. Earn a qualifying score.

3. Complete Medical and Background Screening

4. Enlist in the Navy

  • Choose the OS rating throughout the enlistment process.
  • Sign an enlistment contract outlining your rating and beginning employment training requirements.

5. Attend Navy Boot Camp

  • Complete 10 weeks of Navy recruit training in Great Lakes, Illinois.
  • Learn essential military knowledge, discipline, and abilities.

6. Complete the Operations Specialist “A” School

  • Attend a 10-week training program at the “A” School in Great Lakes, Illinois.
  • Become proficient in navigation, radar operation, shipboard communication systems, and tactical information management.

7. Receive your assignment.

  • Obtain an assignment on a ship, submarine, or shore station.
  • Begin carrying out the tasks of an Operations Specialist, which include navigation aid, radar monitoring, and operational support.

Operations Specialist Training Pipeline

The training process for Operations Specialists is designed to build technical expertise and operational readiness through a structured pipeline:

PhaseDurationTraining Focus
Recruit Training10 WeeksIntroduction to Navy fundamentals, including military discipline, teamwork, physical fitness, and core operational concepts.
OS “A” School TrainingApproximately 9 WeeksSpecialized instruction in radar systems, navigation techniques, tactical communications, and information management.
On-the-Job TrainingVariesReal-world application of skills aboard ships or at shore-based commands, refining technical and tactical capabilities.

Core Training Components:

  • Radar Operations: Gain proficiency in radar imaging, oscilloscope radar techniques, and other advanced technologies to enhance situational awareness and mission success.
  • Navigation and Tactical Systems: Learn to operate and manage sophisticated systems critical to shipboard navigation and tactical planning.
  • Warfare Doctrines: Develop an understanding of naval warfare strategies and how to apply them effectively in diverse operational scenarios.

By completing this rigorous training, you will be fully prepared to assume the responsibilities of an Operations Specialist, with the technical expertise and real-world experience necessary to contribute to mission-critical operations.

Rank Progression for a Navy OS

Pay GradeRateAbbreviationTitle
E-1Operations Specialist Seaman RecruitSRSeaman Recruit
E-2Operations Specialist Seaman ApprenticeSASeaman Apprentice
E-3Operations Specialist SeamanSNSeaman
E-4Operations Specialist Third ClassOS3Petty Officer Third Class
E-5Operations Specialist Second ClassOS2Petty Officer Second Class
E-6Operations Specialist First ClassOS1Petty Officer First Class
E-7Chief Operations SpecialistOSCChief Petty Officer
E-8Senior Chief Operations SpecialistOSCSSenior Chief Petty Officer
E-9Master Chief Operations SpecialistOSCMMaster Chief Petty Officer

2025 Pay Snapshot for Navy Operations Specialists

Your salary as a Navy Operations Specialist is determined by your rank and years of service. Below is a breakdown of the monthly base pay for 2025:

PaygradeYears of ServiceMonthly Base Pay
E-3Less than 2$2,733
E-4Over 2$3,182
E-5Over 4$3,802

Additional Financial Incentives:

  • Bonuses: Opportunities for reenlistment and performance bonuses.
  • Housing Allowances (BAH): Financial assistance for housing based on location and dependents.
  • Sea Pay: Extra pay for serving aboard ships, which increases with time at sea.

Other Benefits

  • Healthcare:
    Comprehensive healthcare coverage for you and your family at no cost.
  • Education Assistance:
    • Access to the GI Bill and tuition assistance programs to fund higher education.
    • Debt relief options for existing student loans.
  • Retirement and VA Benefits:
    • Pension eligibility after 20 years of service.
    • Additional benefits, including VA healthcare and disability compensation post-service.

This combination of competitive pay, allowances, and robust benefits ensures financial stability and long-term support for Navy personnel and their families.

Life of a Navy Operations Specialist

As an Operations Specialist, your daily duties and rotations are critical to the Navy’s operational success. Here is a summary of what life in this job entails:

Sea Duty versus Shore Duty

Sea Duty

  • Deployments normally run between 6 and 9 months
  • During deployments, you will be responsible for supporting onboard operations, typically under challenging settings.
  • The first sea cruise is often the longest, but successive voyages provide more balance.

Shore Duty

  • Following maritime service, you will spend 36 months on land, offering stability and opportunity for professional advancement.
  • Shore duty often involves duties in training, administration, and technical system support.

Daily Responsibilities

  • Radar Monitoring: Operate and monitor radar systems to identify and track adversary activities, maintaining situational awareness during all operational situations.
  • Mission Coordination: Work closely with air or ship controllers to design and carry out tactical operations that include real-time data and directions.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Maintain modern radar and communications equipment in clean, air-conditioned workplaces to ensure maximum operating performance at all times.

A career as a Navy Operations Specialist provides a mix of high-stakes technical duties at sea and more stable postings onshore, with opportunity to acquire skills crucial to mission accomplishment.

Watch this video to get a glimpse of what to expect as a Navy OS:

Duty Stations for Navy Operations Specialists

Operations Specialists (OS) are stationed in a variety of places based on mission needs. These duty stations include ships, submarines, and shore-based commands both in the United States and abroad. 

Here’s an outline of frequent assignments:

Sea-Based Assignments

  • Surface ships, including aircraft carriers, cruisers, destroyers, and amphibious assault ships, rely on OS personnel for navigation, radar operations, and tactical support.
  • Submarines (Limited): Operations Specialists may assist submarine operations, although this is less typical.

Shore-Based Assignments

  • Fleet Command Center: Operations Specialists are often stationed in command centers where they supervise fleet operations and offer strategic assistance.
  • Training Commands: Instructors and technical specialists teach new OS workers at technical colleges such as Great Lakes in Illinois.
  • Major Navy locations include Naval Station Norfolk (Virginia), Naval Base San Diego (California), Naval Station Mayport (Florida), and Pearl Harbor Naval Base in Hawaii.

Overseas Stations

Operations specialists may be stationed in areas overseas, including:

  • Naval Support Activity The United States Navy has bases in Bahrain and Japan (Yokosuka and Sasebo).
  • Naval facilities in Europe, such as Rota, Spain and Naples, Italy.
  • Assignments change during a career, providing a mix of sea and shore tasks in a variety of locations to fulfill operational requirements and professional advancement objectives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long is training for Operations Specialists?

Operations Specialists go through around 10 weeks of “A” School training after 8 weeks of basic training (Recruit Training). Additional on-the-job training varies according to the command and individual assignment.

2. What abilities are required to succeed as an OS?

An Operations Specialist should have the following key skills:

  • The ability to think critically and solve problems.
  • Manual dexterity and proper color vision are required for operating radar and electronic systems.
  • Proficiency with modern radar systems and electronic navigation equipment.
  • Excellent flexibility and teamwork abilities, particularly in high-pressure tactical circumstances.

3. What are the primary tasks of an operations specialist?

Operations specialists have a broad variety of tasks, including:

  • The Combat Information Center (CIC) operates radar, sonar, and communication equipment.
  • Plotting navigation routes and monitoring the ship’s location.
  • Identifying and monitoring possible adversary threats.
  • Coordinating tactical activities with other troops or vessels.

4. What are the sea-shore rotation lengths for Operations Specialists?

  • Sea Duty: The first deployment lasts roughly 54 months.
  • Subsequent maritime voyages generally last 36 months.
  • Deployments during maritime duty typically last six to nine months.
  • Shore duty postings usually span 36 months and provide stability between ship missions.

5. What professional prospects exist after serving as an OS?

Operations specialists develop talents that transfer well into civilian employment, including:

  • Air traffic control is the process of managing airspace and coordinating aircraft movement.
  • Homeland Security roles include monitoring and operations planning.
  • Emergency Management: Providing assistance with disaster response and planning activities.
  • Specialized Radar and Communications: Working with cutting-edge technology in the business or public sectors.

6. What is the typical Operations Specialist pay in 2025?

The basic compensation varies by rank and years of service. For example:

  • An E-4 (Petty Officer Third Class)’s basic salary ranges from $3,027 to $3,525 per month.
  • Additional allowances, such as the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and sea pay, greatly boost overall remuneration.

7. Can operations specialists advance in their careers?

Yes, Operations Specialists may seek higher specialties in areas such as:

  • Electronic warfare (EW) focuses on recognizing and defeating electronic threats.
  • Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) refers to the support of underwater activities.
  • Naval Surface Fire Support (NSFS) involves coordinating naval gunfire with land troops.
  • Combat Air Controller (CAC): Oversees tactical air operations.

These chances enable Operations Specialists to develop their knowledge and take on more advanced responsibilities throughout their careers.

More Information

If you wish to learn more about becoming an Operations Specialist (OS), 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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