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Navy Combat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Combat Systems SME

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Position Summary The Lead Combat Systems SME provides expert assessments of Navy combat systems readiness, maintenance programs, and operational effectiveness. Responsibilities * Conduct combat ...

Lead Combat Systems SME

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Position Summary The Lead Combat Systems SME provides expert assessments of Navy combat systems readiness, maintenance programs, and operational effectiveness. Responsibilities * Conduct combat ...

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Navy Combat information

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How much do navy combat jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for navy combat in the United States is $30.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Navy Combat vs Navy Security Specialist?

AspectNavy CombatNavy Security Specialist
CertificationsBasic military training, specialized combat trainingSecurity clearance, security training
Work EnvironmentCombat zones, shipboard, military basesMilitary bases, security posts, port facilities
Employer & IndustryU.S. Navy, military operationsU.S. Navy, defense/security sector

While both roles serve in the Navy, Navy Combat focuses on active combat operations and tactical engagement, whereas Navy Security Specialists concentrate on safeguarding personnel, facilities, and assets through security measures. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path within the Navy's diverse roles.

What are some common challenges faced by Navy combat personnel during deployments?

Navy combat personnel often face challenges such as adapting to extended periods away from home, operating in high-stress and unpredictable environments, and maintaining peak physical and mental performance. Additionally, they must stay prepared for rapidly changing mission objectives and collaborate efficiently with diverse teams under pressure. These challenges are met through rigorous training, strong unit cohesion, and access to support resources designed to help service members succeed both professionally and personally.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Navy Combat specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive in Navy Combat roles, you need physical fitness, mental resilience, and a foundational understanding of military tactics, typically supported by successful completion of Navy basic training and specialized combat instruction. Familiarity with advanced weaponry, navigation systems, and communication equipment is essential, along with any required security clearances. Leadership, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are critical soft skills in this demanding environment. These abilities ensure mission effectiveness, operational safety, and cohesive unit performance in high-stress situations.

What is Navy Combat?

Navy combat refers to the participation of naval forces in military operations at sea, including battles, patrols, and maritime security missions. Personnel involved in Navy combat are trained to operate ships, submarines, and aircraft, and may engage in anti-piracy, anti-submarine, and surface warfare. These roles require teamwork, technical skills, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations. Navy combat personnel are essential for protecting a nation's maritime interests and ensuring the safety of international waters.
More about Navy Combat jobs
What cities are hiring for Navy Combat jobs? Cities with the most Navy Combat job openings:
What states have the most Navy Combat jobs? States with the most job openings for Navy Combat jobs include:
Infographic showing various Navy Combat job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,821 per year, or $30.2 per hour.
Lead Combat Systems SME

Lead Combat Systems SME

Prevailance, Inc.

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Description

This position is contingent upon contract award


The Lead Combat Systems SME serves as the senior functional lead for all Combat Systems SME activities across Readiness Assisteance Training Teams (RATT).ย 


This position oversees combat systems maintenance initiatives, technical assessments, operational readiness activities, and engineering support efforts associated with AEGIS and Ship Self-Defense System (SSDS) platforms.


The C/S Lead serves as the principal advisor for combat systems maintenance processes, operational performance, training coordination, and depot-level maintenance integration. The role requires extensive experience with Navy combat systems operations, maintenance management, and supervisory oversight aboard surface warships and military auxiliary vessels.


Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and supervise combat systems maintenance operations, technical projects, and engineering support activities associated with Navy surface ships.
  • Provide technical oversight and subject matter expertise for AEGIS and SSDS combat systems operations and maintenance programs.
  • Support planning, coordination, execution, and assessment of depot-level combat systems maintenance activities.
  • Oversee combat systems operational readiness evaluations, maintenance inspections, and corrective action programs.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to combat systems personnel, maintenance technicians, and engineering teams.
  • Coordinate with government representatives, ship's force personnel, maintenance activities, training organizations, and fleet stakeholders.
  • Analyze combat systems operational performance, maintenance trends, and casualty reports to identify improvement opportunities.
  • Support development and implementation of maintenance procedures, training initiatives, and operational standards.
  • Ensure compliance with Navy combat systems maintenance requirements, technical directives, and safety standards.
  • Prepare technical reports, readiness assessments, maintenance evaluations, and program status briefings for leadership.
  • Support troubleshooting and resolution of complex combat systems operational and maintenance issues.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum of fifteen (15) years supervisory experience supporting Navy surface ship combat systems maintenance processes.
  • Minimum of fifteen (15) years of supervisory experience in analyses, information system operations, and implementation of technical projects (25+ years of experience is considered highly desirable). ย 
  • Extensive experience serving in one or more of the following positions aboard multiple AEGIS and SSDS-equipped ships:

ย ย ย ย ย * Systems Test Officer (STO),

ย ย ย ย ย * Combat Systems Maintenance Manager (CSMM), or

ย ย ย ย ย * Combat Systems Officer of the Watch (CSOOW).

  • Extensive operational experience supporting Navy surface ship combat systems operations aboard multiple AEGIS and SSDS platforms.
  • Maintenance and training staff experience within organizations such as:

ย ย ย ย ย * Immediate Superior In Charge (ISIC),

ย ย ย ย ย * Type Commander (TYCOM), or

ย ย ย ย ย * Afloat Training Group.

  • Extensive maintenance staff experience supporting combat systems readiness and sustainment programs.
  • In-depth knowledge of Navy ship depot-level combat systems maintenance processes.
  • In-depth knowledge of the theory, operation, integration, and maintenance of surface ship combat systems.
  • Direct operational and maintenance experience with combat systems currently employed aboard U.S. Navy warships and military auxiliary vessels.
  • Strong leadership, organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
  • Ability to effectively interface with senior military personnel, government representatives, and technical stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior experience supporting fleet modernization, combat systems integration, or readiness improvement initiatives.
  • Experience supporting shipyard, depot maintenance, or waterfront engineering activities.
  • Familiarity with Navy combat systems maintenance databases, readiness reporting systems, and technical documentation.
  • Experience leading multidisciplinary technical teams in operational or maintenance environments.

Education Requirements

  • Associate degree or bachelor's degree in Engineering, Electronics, Information Systems, Computer Science, Military Science, or a related technical discipline.
  • Equivalent Navy technical training, certifications, and operational experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.
  • Seven (7) years demonstrated experience in a management role.

Work Environment

  • Work may be performed in office environments, shipboard locations, waterfront operations areas, maintenance facilities, or shipyards.
  • Position may require travel to fleet concentration areas, operational commands, maintenance facilities, and shipboard locations in support of inspections, maintenance activities, and operational readiness efforts.

Security Clearance

  • Active DoD security clearance (Secret or higher) required.