Army Watercraft Operator (88K)

Watercraft operators are primarily responsible for navigation, cargo operations and supervising other Soldiers on Army watercraft. They are part of a piloting team using electronic positioning systems, handheld navigation tools and traditional watch standing procedures aboard many of the Army’s watercraft.

Job Duties

• Dock and undock vessels
  
• Send and receive messages with radios, beacons and signal flags
  
• Operate and maintain lifeboats and vessel firefighting equipment
  
• Secure all type of cargo using shipboard machinery such as capstans, winches, hoists and davits

Requirements

Those who want to serve must first take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, a series of tests that helps you better understand your strengths and identify which Army jobs are best for you.

Training

Job training for a watercraft operator requires 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training and six weeks of Advanced Individual Training with on-the-job instructions. Part of this time is spent in the classroom and part in the field.

Some of the skills you’ll learn are:

• Boat handling techniques
  
• Standing-watch procedures
  
• Use of communications, electronics and navigational systems
  
• Ship structure
  
• Log and message-handling procedures
  
• Navigational mathematics

Helpful Skills

• Interest in the ocean, sailing and navigation
  
• Ability to work as part of a team
  
• Basic understanding of maps and trip planning
  
• Understanding of mathematical formulas

 http://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/browse-career-and-job-categories/transportation-and-aviation/watercraft-operator.html