Ever wondered who protects our naval fleet from unseen underwater threats?
Behind sophisticated sonar screens in climate-controlled rooms aboard Navy destroyers, Sonar Technicians track enemy submarines with uncanny precision.
For those seeking technical expertise without full-time military commitment, the Navy Reserve STG path offers a compelling blend of high-tech skills and part-time service.
Job Role and Responsibilities
Navy Sonar Technicians – Surface (STG) from the Reserve component run sophisticated sonar systems for underwater threat detection and classification while they keep important electronic systems operational. These technicians function as the fleet’s underwater “eyes and ears” by delivering tactical information to command teams during anti-submarine warfare missions.
Daily Tasks
Core Responsibilities During Drills and Annual Training:
- Operating Advanced Sonar Systems
Reserve STGs run the AN/SQQ-89(V) suite—an integrated sonar platform that identifies acoustic signatures from submarines, mines, and underwater vehicles. Fast interpretation, zero guesswork. - Maintaining Complex Electronics
From circuit board diagnostics to system software updates, these techs handle both preventive upkeep and urgent repairs on sonar electronics. - Interpreting Acoustic Data
Not every blip is a sub. STGs are trained to differentiate hostile contacts from whale songs, thermal layers, or false echoes—all in real time. - Generating Tactical Reports
After-action documentation matters. STGs log contact profiles, threat assessments, and system status in detailed reports that feed directly into tactical planning. - Communicating with CIC Teams
When sonar picks up a contact, it doesn’t end at the screen. STGs relay findings directly to Combat Information Center (CIC) operators—ensuring tactical decisions are based on solid acoustic intelligence.
Specific Roles
STG Reservists can qualify for various Navy Enlisted Classifications (NECs) that define their specialized skills:
| NEC Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 0416 | AN/SQQ-89(V) Maintenance Technician | Performs advanced troubleshooting on integrated sonar systems |
| 0417 | AN/SQS-53 Sonar System Technician | Specializes in hull-mounted active/passive sonar maintenance |
| 0418 | AN/SQR-19 TACTAS Technician | Maintains towed array sonar systems |
| 0520 | Combat Systems Equipment Technician | Cross-platform maintenance of multiple sonar/weapons systems |
Mission Contribution
STG Reservists serve as the foundation of the Navy’s anti-submarine warfare operations. The skill to identify underwater threats enables them to deliver crucial alerts which safeguard surface ships against submarine attacks.
Their specialized skills become essential during times of increased tension when they evaluate acoustic signals to identify authentic ships from potential threats.
Reserve STGs sustain operational readiness through monthly training sessions and yearly training programs so they can support fleet operations during emergencies or scheduled missions whereas their active-duty peers remain at sea for extended periods.
Technology and Equipment
STG Reservists work with some of the Navy’s most sophisticated underwater surveillance technology:
- AN/SQQ-89(V) integrated sonar suite – the primary surface ship sonar system
- AN/SLQ-25 Nixie torpedo countermeasures
- Bathythermographs for measuring water temperature at various depths
- Oceanographic sensors for environmental data collection
- Classified acoustic analysis software for signature recognition
- Underwater fire control systems for anti-submarine weapons
Work Environment
Setting and Schedule
STG Reservists typically work in two distinct environments:
During monthly drill weekends (one weekend per month), they report to Navy Reserve Centers or occasionally to ships in port, working in climate-controlled spaces with advanced electronic equipment.
These drill periods involve 16 hours of work spread across Saturday and Sunday.
For annual training (two weeks per year), they deploy to active-duty ships or shore facilities, working in operational sonar rooms aboard destroyers or cruisers. These spaces are clean, well-lit, and maintained at comfortable temperatures to protect sensitive electronic equipment.
The work schedule during active duty periods typically follows standard shipboard routines with watch rotations, while drill weekends follow a more structured 8-hour day format.
Leadership and Communication
STG Reservists operate within a clearly defined chain of command:
- Division Leading Petty Officer (LPO)
- Division Chief Petty Officer (LCPO)
- Division Officer
- Department Head
- Executive Officer
- Commanding Officer
Performance feedback occurs formally through annual evaluations (EVAL/FITREP) and informally through regular counseling sessions with senior enlisted leaders. The Reserve component places particular emphasis on documentation of qualifications and achievements during limited drill periods.
Team Dynamics and Autonomy
The STG rating demands a careful balance between individual expertise and team integration.
While analyzing sonar contacts requires individual judgment and technical knowledge, effective anti-submarine operations depend on seamless coordination with the combat information center, tactical action officers, and weapons teams.
Junior STGs typically work under close supervision, but as they gain experience and qualifications, they earn greater autonomy in contact classification and maintenance tasks.
By E-5 (Petty Officer Second Class), most STGs make independent decisions regarding contact classification and equipment troubleshooting.
Job Satisfaction and Retention
The retention rate for STG Reservists hovers around 65% after the first enlistment, higher than many other technical ratings. This relatively strong retention stems from several factors:
- Technical skills that translate well to civilian careers
- Intellectual challenge of acoustic analysis
- Satisfaction of contributing to national security
- Camaraderie within small, specialized teams
Success is measured through qualification completions, advancement exam scores, and operational readiness assessments. Current STGs report high satisfaction with technical training opportunities but note challenges in maintaining proficiency with limited drill time.
Training and Skill Development
Initial Training
| Training Phase | Duration | Location | Content |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recruit Training (Boot Camp) | 9 weeks | Great Lakes, IL | Basic military knowledge, physical fitness, discipline |
| “A” School | 24 weeks | Great Lakes, IL | Sonar fundamentals, electronic principles, equipment operation |
| System-Specific Training | 4-8 weeks | Various locations | Hands-on training with specific sonar systems |
The initial training pipeline spans approximately 9 months, beginning with boot camp’s military fundamentals.
The technical phase at “A” School covers acoustic theory, electronic troubleshooting, and sonar operation. Training emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application through sophisticated simulators that replicate at-sea conditions.
For Reservists with no prior service, this training follows the same path as active-duty personnel. Those transitioning from active duty to the Reserves may bypass portions based on their existing qualifications.
Advanced Training
STG Reservists can pursue numerous advanced training opportunities:
- C-Schools for specific sonar system maintenance (2-12 weeks)
- Advanced acoustic analysis courses
- Anti-submarine warfare tactical training
- Leadership development courses required for advancement
- Cross-training with submarine sonar technicians (STS)
The Navy supports professional development through tuition assistance for college courses related to electronics, computer science, or oceanography. Many STGs pursue associate or bachelor’s degrees during their Reserve service, with credits often granted for military training.
Physical Demands and Medical Evaluations
Physical Requirements
STG duties are not among the most physically demanding in the Navy, but they do require:
- Standing watches for extended periods (4-6 hours)
- Lifting equipment components weighing up to 50 pounds
- Climbing ladders and navigating narrow passageways aboard ships
- Maintaining physical readiness for emergency situations
The daily physical demands primarily involve fine motor skills for equipment maintenance, sustained attention during long watches, and occasional heavy lifting during equipment installation or removal.
Current Physical Readiness Test (PRT) requirements for the youngest age bracket (17-19):
| Event | Male Minimum | Female Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| Plank | 1:20 | 1:10 |
| Push-ups | 42 | 18 |
| 1.5 Mile Run | 12:30 | 14:15 |
Medical Evaluations
Beyond initial entrance standards, STGs must maintain:
- Normal hearing with specific frequency thresholds (3000-6000Hz)
- Normal color vision (critical for display interpretation)
- No speech impediments (essential for clear communication)
- Annual physical health assessment (PHA)
- Periodic hearing tests to monitor for potential degradation
Reservists complete these evaluations during designated medical readiness drill weekends, with hearing tests conducted annually due to the occupation’s exposure to various sound frequencies.
Deployment and Duty Stations
Deployment Details
STG Reservists face lower deployment frequency than active-duty counterparts, but remain subject to mobilization:
- Typical mobilizations last 6-12 months when activated
- Deployments may be overseas (Pacific, Mediterranean, Persian Gulf) or domestic
- Likelihood of deployment varies with global situations and personnel needs
- First-term Reservists receive a two-year deferment from involuntary mobilization
When deployed, STGs serve aboard destroyers, cruisers, or at shore-based surveillance facilities, performing the same duties as active-duty personnel.
Location Flexibility
Duty station assignments for STG Reservists depend on:
- Navy Operational Support Centers (NOSCs) with STG billets
- Individual qualifications and experience level
- Current manning requirements
- Personal preference (considered but not guaranteed)
Major fleet concentration areas like San Diego, Norfolk, and Mayport offer the most STG Reserve opportunities. Reservists can request preferred locations through their career counselors, with transfers possible during reenlistment windows.
Career Progression and Advancement
Career Path
| Paygrade | Time in Service (Approx.) | Key Responsibilities | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-1 to E-3 | 0-24 months | Basic sonar operation, maintenance assistance | Complete initial training |
| E-4 (PO3) | 2-4 years | Independent watch standing, basic maintenance | Pass advancement exam, complete PQS |
| E-5 (PO2) | 4-6 years | Lead watch teams, advanced maintenance | Pass exam, leadership courses |
| E-6 (PO1) | 6-12 years | Division supervision, training junior personnel | CPO-LDC, superior evaluations |
| E-7 to E-9 | 12+ years | Department leadership, program management | Senior Enlisted Academy, selection boards |
Advancement opportunities include:
- Competitive advancement exams testing technical knowledge and military requirements
- Performance evaluations emphasizing technical proficiency and leadership
- Qualification completions documented in personnel records
- Awards and recognition for exceptional performance
Role Flexibility and Transfers
STG Reservists have several options for career transitions:
- Lateral conversion to related ratings like Electronics Technician (ET) or Fire Controlman (FC)
- Transfer to active duty through the Active Component/Reserve Component (AC/RC) program
- Geographic relocation through cross-assignment to different Reserve centers
The process typically involves submitting a request through the chain of command, career counselor review, and approval based on Navy manning requirements and individual qualifications.
Performance Evaluation
The Navy evaluates STG Reservists through:
- Annual performance evaluations (EVAL/FITREP)
- Advancement exam scores
- Qualification completion rates
- Physical readiness test results
Success in this career hinges on technical proficiency, continuous learning, and leadership development. Top performers demonstrate initiative in pursuing advanced qualifications, maintain exemplary drill attendance, and contribute meaningfully during annual training periods.
Compensation, Benefits, and Lifestyle
Financial Benefits
| Pay Grade | Monthly Drill Pay (2025) | Annual Training Pay (14 days) | Potential Annual Total* |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-3 | $452 | $1,055 | $6,479 |
| E-4 | $500 | $1,167 | $7,167 |
| E-5 | $545 | $1,272 | $7,812 |
| E-6 | $595 | $1,388 | $8,528 |
| E-7 | $686 | $1,601 | $9,833 |
*Includes 12 months of weekend drills plus annual training
Additional financial incentives include:
- Enlistment bonuses up to $10,000 for high ASVAB scores
- Special duty pay during deployments
- Tax advantages on certain military income
- Retirement points toward pension after age 60
Additional Benefits
STG Reservists receive comprehensive benefits:
- Tricare Reserve Select healthcare ($48/month for individual, $238/month for family)
- VA home loan eligibility after 6 years of service
- Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits (prorated based on service)
- Commissary and exchange privileges
- Life insurance up to $400,000 at competitive rates
- Retirement pension after 20 qualifying years
Work-Life Balance
The Reserve component is specifically designed to balance military service with civilian life:
- One weekend per month and two weeks per year is the standard commitment
- Additional voluntary opportunities for active duty periods
- 30 days of paid leave earned annually during active duty periods
- Family support programs through Fleet and Family Support Centers
- Two-year deferment from involuntary mobilization for new Reservists
Risk, Safety, and Legal Considerations
Job Hazards
STG Reservists face several occupational hazards:
- Electrical shock risks during equipment maintenance
- Hearing damage from prolonged exposure to certain frequencies
- Shipboard hazards during deployments (heavy seas, confined spaces)
- Potential combat exposure during wartime deployments
Safety Protocols
The Navy implements comprehensive safety measures:
- Detailed maintenance procedures with safety warnings
- Required personal protective equipment for specific tasks
- Regular safety stand-downs and training
- Hearing conservation programs with mandatory protection
- Operational risk management assessments before hazardous operations
Security and Legal Requirements
STG Reservists must maintain:
- Secret security clearance (minimum)
- Top Secret clearance for certain assignments
- Compliance with Uniform Code of Military Justice
- Adherence to classified information handling procedures
- Availability for mobilization when activated
Obtaining a security clearance involves conducting background investigations, verifying references, and performing regular reinvestigations. STGs manage sensitive acoustic information, necessitating rigorous compliance with information security protocols.
Impact on Family and Personal Life
Family Considerations
Reserve service creates unique family dynamics:
- Predictable monthly drill schedules allow for advance planning
- Annual training periods require family adaptation
- Potential for unexpected mobilizations during international crises
- Separation during deployments with limited communication
Support systems include:
- Family Readiness Groups providing information and assistance
- Military OneSource offering counseling and resources
- Child care assistance during drill weekends at some locations
- Communication tools during deployments
Relocation and Flexibility
The Reserve component offers greater geographic stability than active duty:
- Typically drill at the same location for years
- Transfers possible but not mandatory
- Can request relocation if moving for civilian employment
- May travel to annual training locations away from home
Post-Service Opportunities
Transition to Civilian Life
STG skills translate well to civilian careers:
- Electronics technician roles in various industries
- Sonar operators for oceanographic research
- Defense contractors supporting Navy sonar systems
- Cybersecurity positions leveraging security clearance
- Technical instructors for sonar and electronics training
Programs supporting transition include:
- Navy COOL certification funding
- SkillBridge internships during final service months
- Veterans preference for federal employment
- Resume translation services through Transition Assistance Program
Civilian Career Prospects
| Occupation | Median Annual Salary | Growth Rate (2023-2033) | Related STG Skills |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electronics Technician | $61,210 | 2% | Equipment maintenance, troubleshooting |
| Electro-Mechanical Technician | $63,050 | 4% | System integration, diagnostics |
| Sound Engineering Technician | $60,500 | 6% | Acoustic analysis, equipment operation |
| Computer Support Specialist | $57,910 | 8% | Technical troubleshooting, system maintenance |
| Industrial Engineering Technician | $60,220 | 3% | Process improvement, technical documentation |
Qualifications, Requirements, and Application Process
Basic Qualifications
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 17-39 (must ship to basic training before 40th birthday) |
| Citizenship | U.S. citizenship required (no exceptions) |
| Education | High school diploma or equivalent |
| ASVAB Score | Minimum AR + MK + EI + GS = 222 |
| Physical | Normal hearing, color vision, no speech impediments |
| Background | Eligible for Secret security clearance |
Application Process
- Contact a Navy Reserve recruiter
- Complete preliminary screening
- Take or submit existing ASVAB scores
- Complete physical examination at Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS)
- Select STG rating if available and qualified
- Complete security clearance paperwork
- Ship to Recruit Training Command (boot camp)
- Complete STG “A” School and follow-on training
- Report to assigned Navy Operational Support Center
The process typically takes 3-6 months from initial contact to shipping date, with training lasting approximately 9 months before reaching the first Reserve assignment.
Selection Criteria and Competitiveness
STG is moderately competitive, with selection based on:
- Meeting minimum ASVAB requirements
- Clean background for security clearance eligibility
- Normal hearing and vision test results
- Available training slots and Navy needs
Factors strengthening applications include higher ASVAB scores, prior electronics experience, and education in related technical fields.
Is This a Good Job for You? The Right (and Wrong) Fit
Ideal Candidate Profile
STG Reserve positions suit individuals with:
- Strong analytical thinking and pattern recognition abilities
- Technical aptitude and interest in electronics
- Attention to detail and patience for monitoring tasks
- Ability to maintain focus during repetitive operations
- Interest in acoustics and underwater technologies
- Desire for technical skills without full-time military commitment
The role rewards methodical problem-solvers who enjoy technical challenges and can make quick decisions based on ambiguous data.
Potential Challenges
This role might not suit those who:
- Prefer outdoor work environments
- Dislike confined spaces (shipboard environments)
- Struggle with technical concepts or electronics
- Need constant variety in daily tasks
- Have difficulty maintaining security clearance eligibility
- Cannot commit to regular drill attendance
The technical nature of the rating requires ongoing study and adaptation to new systems, which can challenge those seeking simplicity.
Career and Lifestyle Alignment
Consider how STG aligns with your goals:
- Career Enhancement: Ideal for those in technical civilian careers seeking complementary skills
- Educational Goals: Compatible with pursuing technical degrees while serving
- Work-Life Balance: More predictable than active duty, but still requires commitment
- Geographic Stability: Better than active duty, but still involves travel for training
More Information
Ready to explore how your technical aptitude could protect America’s fleet? The Navy’s Sonar Technician program offers cutting-edge training that enhances both your military and civilian career prospects.
Contact your local Navy Reserve recruiter today to discuss how your skills align with the STG rating and to learn about current enlistment incentives for 2025.
With just one weekend a month and two weeks a year, you can develop expertise in advanced sonar systems while continuing your civilian career.
You may also be interested in the following related Navy Reserve Enlisted Surface Combat Systems jobs:
