Reasons to Become a Naval Officer

An officer in the U.S. Navy may be involved in many different fields of military service. Officers are the leaders and technical experts of the military. Naval officers have the opportunity for career advancement and service to the country. Becoming an officer in the U.S. Navy can be rewarding and exciting.

Background

Officers are the leaders and commanders in the Navy. The naval officer ranks go from lieutenant junior grade up to admiral. You must have a college degree to become a naval officer. The three paths to become a naval officer are four years of college study and officer training at the U.S. Naval Academy, Reserve Officer Training Corp, scholarship and training at a civilian university or Officer Candidate School, if you already have a college degree.

Command

Naval officers are the leaders and commanders of the Navy. If you would like to command a SEAL team, ship, submarine, fighter squadron or naval base, the path is through a naval officer career. The highest military command level possible is the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff at the Pentagon.

Travel

The U.S. Navy has bases all over the world and, of course, officers serving on Navy ships may be required to cruise to any part of the world. If you are interested in living in a foreign country or visiting strange ports, many naval officer jobs will get you there.

Aviation

You must be an officer to be a Navy pilot or aircraft navigator. Only Navy officers are selected for Navy flight training. The Navy aviators can fly both land-based and aircraft carrier based planes.

Technical Jobs

The Navy has many jobs for officers with advanced skills. Some areas where officers can be assigned include medical, lawyers, nuclear power, civil engineering, intelligence, oceanography/meteorology, supply, transportation and logistics. The Navy also will provide advanced training in these areas to help naval officers with their career progression.

Benefits

Naval officers receive a competitive pay scale with regular increases due to time in service and rank. Medical care is covered for the officer and his family. The Navy provides officers with on-base housing or financial housing assistance. Navy personnel get 30 days of paid vacation each year.

References

• Navy.com/officer