Take control of the seas as a Watercraft Operator for the Army National Guard. Using the Guard's large fleet of ocean vessels, you will be responsible for navigating open waters and performing sea cargo operations. The Army National Guard uses ocean-going and harbor craft to support operations throughout the continental United States and overseas. As members of a team, Watercraft Operators are responsible for piloting, navigating, and performing cargo operations on Guard watercraft. In this role, you will use electronic positioning systems, handheld navigation tools, and traditional watch-standing procedures aboard many of the Guard's specialized 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 Some of the Skills You'll Learn • 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 a team member • Basic understanding of maps and trip planning • Understanding of mathematical formulas Through your training, you will develop the skills and experience to enjoy a civilian career in shipping, cruise, tugboat, or ferry operation as a pilot, harbormaster, longshoreman, or marine resource enforcement officer. Earn While You Learn Instead of paying to learn these skills, get paid to train. In the Army National Guard, you will learn these valuable job skills while earning a regular paycheck and qualifying for tuition assistance. Job training for a Watercraft Operator consists of 10 weeks of Basic Training, where you'll learn basic Soldiering skills, and six weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT). Part of this time is spent in the classroom and part in the field. Benefits/Requirements Benefits Paid training A monthly paycheck Montgomery GI Bill Federal and State tuition assistance Retirement benefits for part-time service Low-cost life insurance (up to $400,000 in coverage) 401(k)-type savings plan Student Loan Repayment Program (up to $50,000, for existing loans) Health care benefits available VA home loans Bonuses, if applicable Most non-prior service candidates will earn between $200 and $250 per drill weekend, subject to change Requirements Military enlistment in the Army National Guard Must be at least a junior in high school, or have a high school diploma or a GED certificate Must be between the ages of 17 and 35 Must be able to pass a physical exam and meet legal and moral standards Must meet citizenship requirements (see NATIONALGUARD.com for details) Requires military enlistment. Programs and benefits are subject to change. Ask your Army National Guard recruiter for the most up-to-date information. Actual MOS assignment may depend on MOS availability. This position may qualify for a bonus, ask your National Guard recruiter for the most up-to-date information. Salary: . Date posted: 05/24/2019
