This guide provides helpful information for those looking to join the Navy as a Torpedoman’s Mate (TM) during the Fiscal Year 2025.
If a weapon launches underwater, a Torpedoman’s Mate is behind it. These Sailors handle the firepower on submarines—torpedoes, missiles, even small arms and ammo.
They maintain, prepare, and launch weapons. They work on firing and launching systems. When it’s time to fire, they make sure everything works. No room for mistakes.
A steady hand. A sharp mind. That’s what it takes to keep a sub safe.
Ready to start your journey?
Job Description
Torpedoman’s Mates (TM) are Navy enlisted Sailors who maintain and repair test equipment, launching/firing systems, and stowage facilities associated with underwater ordnance. This includes hydraulic systems, air systems, and seawater systems.
They also conduct pre- and post-launch routines and maintain submarine anchoring systems.
TMs serve on submarines for most of their careers. When not at sea, they rotate to shore duty at land-based commands.
Inside the auxiliary compartments, they work on various weapons systems and equipment. The job can be physically demanding.
This rating provides technical skills training that translates directly into civilian careers after service or for those pursuing a long-term Navy career.
Teamwork is critical. In some situations, they work with minimal supervision.
Specific Responsibilities
TMs work inside and outside submarines, often in engine rooms or shops. These spaces can be hot, noisy, and dirty. The job requires physical labor, including:
- Extracting, installing, and securing weapon components.
- Replacing and testing portable cables, relays, lamps, and fuses.
- Locating and identifying parts inside electronic equipment.
- Inspecting weapons storage, security, and alarm systems.
- Maintaining logs and record books for torpedoes and equipment.
- Identifying torpedo components, tools, and test equipment.
- Using and maintaining hand tools, specialized tools, and soldering equipment.
- Performing maintenance on hydraulic and pneumatic systems linked to launch systems.
- Overseeing inspections and conducting final checks on weapons.
- Tracing mechanical and electrical circuits using schematics and diagrams.
Skilled hands. Sharp attention to detail. That’s what it takes to keep a submarine’s firepower ready.
Different Roles
Tactical Weapons Manager
Manages submarine weapon operations—AA&E (Arms, Ammunition, and Explosives), missile and torpedo systems, Vertical Launch Systems (VLS) / Virginia Payload Tubes (VPT), countermeasures, and anchor systems.
- Oversees weapons shipping, handling, and delivery systems.
- Supervises weapons use and handling procedures.
- Coordinates communication and divisional operations.
- Manages maintenance and training programs.
Tactical Weapons Operator
Operates and performs basic maintenance on submarine weapon systems, including:
- Anchor systems, AA&E, torpedoes, missiles, and mines.
- VLS/VPT and countermeasure systems.
- Assists in weapons handling and loading.
- Supports target processing and attack operations.
- Provides munitions and security for operational forces.
- Conducts repairs and maintenance on weapon system equipment.
Tactical Weapons Technician
Handles advanced maintenance and operations for submarine weapon systems.
- Works with AA&E, torpedoes, missiles, launch systems, and countermeasures.
- Oversees divisional operations, maintenance, and training.
- Supports weapons handling, target processing, and attack operations.
- Maintains and repairs weapon system equipment.
- Provides munitions and security support for operational forces.
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 | Torpedoman’s Mate Third Class | TM3 | Petty Officer Third Class |
E-5 | Torpedoman’s Mate Second Class | TM2 | Petty Officer Second Class |
E-6 | Torpedoman’s Mate First Class | TM1 | Petty Officer First Class |
E-7 | Chief Torpedoman’s Mate | TMC | Chief Petty Officer |
E-8 | Senior Chief Torpedoman’s Mate | TMCS | Senior Chief Petty Officer |
E-9 | Master Chief Torpedoman’s Mate | TMCM | 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.
- 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.
Training and Career Opportunities
Initial Training
After Boot Camp at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes, future Torpedoman’s Mates (TMs) report to:
- Basic Enlisted Submarine School – 9 weeks in Groton, CT. Learn submarine systems.
- Torpedoman’s Mate “A” School – 10 weeks of hands-on training in mechanical theory, submarine piping systems, and basic maintenance/operations.
Training Breakdown
School | Location | Length | Focus | Method |
---|---|---|---|---|
Basic Enlisted Submarine School | Groton, CT | 9 weeks | Submarine systems fundamentals | Group instruction, hands-on training |
Torpedoman’s Mate “A” School | Groton, CT | 10 weeks | Mechanical theory, submarine piping systems, hand tools, gears, valves, pumps, and maintenance procedures | Classroom, hands-on labs |
Once training is complete, TMs are assigned to submarines stationed in the U.S. or overseas.
Service & Advancement
After “A” School, TMs serve on submarines or at repair facilities on shore. Over a 20-year career, they spend:
- 70% of their time in fleet units (on submarines).
- 30% at shore stations (including training roles, recruiting, or repair duties).
- Promotion opportunities are available but competitive—based on performance.
TMs are part of an elite, highly trained community. Their specialized skills are valuable both in the military and beyond.
Pay & Benefits
- Submarine pay: $75 to $600/month (after Basic Enlisted Submarine School).
- Highly transferable skills for civilian and military careers.
Post-Service Opportunities
The technical skills and experience gained in this role transfer directly to civilian careers. Mechanical maintenance, engineering, and submarine systems expertise are in demand.
TMs learn through on-the-job training and formal Navy schooling. Advanced training is available later in their careers. They gain expertise in advanced submarine technology. Their training opens doors during and after service.
Qualifications to Join
Basic Requirements
To qualify as a Torpedoman’s Mate (TM), you need:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- U.S. citizenship and eligibility for security clearance.
- Above-average math skills.
- Good manual dexterity and physical stamina.
- Strong speaking and teamwork skills.
- Ability to work with tools, mechanical systems, and machines.
- Attention to detail for record-keeping and repetitive tasks.
- Willingness to volunteer for submarine duty.
ASVAB score requirement:
- VE + AR + MK + EI = 207 or
- OR AR + GS + MC + EI = 207
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 Torpedoman’s Mate (TM), 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: