Ship Electricians (Enlisted)
Opportunities
Ship electricians operate and repair electrical systems on ships. They keep electrical power plants, wiring, and machinery in working order; maintain and repair shipboard elevator systems; and interpret electrical sketches, diagrams, and blueprints.
Training Provided
Ship electricians in the Military will gain skills through classroom study, including practice repairing electrical systems, and on-the-job experience.
- Electrical theory
- Troubleshooting procedures
- Maintenance and repair procedures
- Reading diagrams and calculating amperage, voltage, and resistance levels
- Electrical circuit analysis
- Motor, generator, and transformer principles
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.
Earnings
Military pay and benefits are set by Congress, which normally grants a cost-of-living pay increase once each year. All members of the military receive "basic pay," which is the largest component of a member's pay. A member's grade (usually the same as rank) and years of service determines the amount of basic pay received. Enlisted members can progress through nine enlisted pay grades during their careers. In 2024, most enlisted personnel started as recruits at Grade E-1 ($24,204/year basic pay); however, those with special skills or above average education started as high as Grade E-4 ($31,608/year basic pay). In addition to pay, the military provides many of life's necessities, such as food, clothing, and housing, or pays allowances for them. Other benefits include health care, 30 days paid vacation, legal assistance, recreational programs, education assistance, and military store privileges.
Services offering this occupation
Coast Guard
Navy