Surface Warfare Officer (SWO
Miami, FL · On-site
About If you're a Surface Warfare Officer (SWO), you have what it takes to lead by example. Maintain and operate the most advanced fleet of ships in the world--along with the crews that support them.
Surface Warfare Officer (SWO
Miami, FL · On-site
About If you're a Surface Warfare Officer (SWO), you have what it takes to lead by example. Maintain and operate the most advanced fleet of ships in the world--along with the crews that support them.
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare Officer Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Surface Warfare Officers lead at sea by managing ship operations, combat systems, navigation, and warfare tactics to ensure ...
Surface Warfare information
See salary details
$50.5K - $60K
8% of jobs
$60K - $69.5K
16% of jobs
$69.7K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$69.5K - $79K
36% of jobs
$85.4K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$79K - $88.5K
22% of jobs
$88.5K - $98K
0% of jobs
$98K - $107.5K
0% of jobs
$107.5K - $117K
1% of jobs
$117K - $126.5K
4% of jobs
$126.5K - $136K
4% of jobs
$136K - $145.5K
4% of jobs
$145.5K - $155K
4% of jobs
$50.5K
$89.3K
$155K
How much do surface warfare jobs pay per year?
As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for surface warfare in the United States is $89,329.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the highest paid MOS in the Navy?
In the Navy, the highest paid roles related to Surface Warfare are typically senior officers such as Commanding Officers and senior surface warfare officers, with pay grades ranging from O-4 to O-6 and above, depending on experience and rank. Enlisted surface warfare specialists, like Master Chief Petty Officers, also earn higher pay within their ranks. Overall, officer roles with leadership and specialized skills tend to have the highest salaries in surface warfare positions.
What are Surface Warfare Officers?
Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are commissioned officers in the Navy responsible for the operation and management of Navy ships at sea. They oversee all aspects of shipboard operations, including navigation, weapons systems, engineering, and crew management. SWOs are trained to lead sailors and ensure the ship is mission-ready, safe, and effective in both peace and combat situations. Their role is critical to the Navy’s surface fleet and requires strong leadership, technical, and tactical skills.
What is the salary of a SWO?
A Surface Warfare Officer (SWO) in the Navy typically earns a starting salary around $40,000 to $50,000 annually, with pay increasing based on rank and years of service. As they gain experience and promotions, salaries can rise to over $100,000 for senior officers, and additional allowances for duty location and qualifications may apply.
How much do surface warfare officers get paid?
Surface Warfare Officers in the military typically earn a starting salary based on their rank and years of service, with initial pay around $40,000 to $50,000 annually for junior officers. As they gain experience and rank, their pay increases, and they may also receive allowances for housing, subsistence, and special skills. Overall compensation can range from approximately $60,000 to over $100,000 per year with experience and additional benefits.
What are some common challenges faced by Surface Warfare Officers, and how can new officers prepare for them?
Surface Warfare Officers often encounter challenges such as adapting to life at sea, managing diverse teams, and balancing operational demands with administrative responsibilities. New officers can prepare by developing strong communication skills, building resilience, and seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues. Familiarity with ship systems and a proactive approach to continuous learning also help ease the transition and set the foundation for career growth in the Navy.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Surface Warfare Officer, and why are they important?
To excel as a Surface Warfare Officer, you need a bachelor's degree, strong leadership abilities, and a solid understanding of naval operations and ship systems. Familiarity with navigation systems, radar and sonar technology, and completion of Officer Candidate School or Naval Academy training are typically required. Exceptional decision-making, teamwork, and communication skills set top performers apart in this high-responsibility environment. These competencies ensure mission readiness, the safety of crew and vessel, and effective leadership in dynamic maritime situations.
What is the difference between Surface Warfare vs Naval Warfare Specialist?
| Aspect | Surface Warfare | Naval Warfare Specialist |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Surface Warfare Officer qualification, Navy surface warfare pin | Naval Warfare Specialist certification, relevant military training |
| Work Environment | Onboard ships, naval vessels, and maritime operations | Naval bases, training facilities, and operational theaters |
| Industry Usage | U.S. Navy, maritime defense, naval combat | Naval forces, military defense, maritime security |
Surface Warfare involves operating and commanding naval ships and vessels, focusing on maritime combat and navigation. Naval Warfare Specialist refers to personnel trained in naval combat tactics and operational support. While both roles are integral to naval defense, Surface Warfare emphasizes ship operations, whereas Naval Warfare Specialists focus on tactical expertise. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify career paths and job expectations within naval military roles.
How do you become a surface warfare officer?
To become a surface warfare officer, candidates typically complete a bachelor's degree, pass the Navy's Officer Candidate School or Naval Academy, and attend Officer Development School. They then receive specialized training at the Surface Warfare Officer School and gain experience aboard ships, developing leadership, navigation, and technical skills.
More about Surface Warfare jobs
What job categories do people searching Surface Warfare jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Surface Warfare jobs are:
United States Navy rating
6.4
Based on 379 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
43rd of 50 rated military and defense
Job description
About
If you’re a Surface Warfare Officer (SWO), you have what it takes to lead by example. Maintain and operate the most advanced fleet of ships in the world—along with the crews that support them. Your team of Sailors will look to you for guidance, so you’ll need to become an expert on everything from engineering to combat systems to
navigation. Communicate your mission and goals with your crew to ensure everything is smooth sailing. If you see yourself commanding a Naval ship as a Captain one day, this is the role that
will get you there.
Responsibilities
Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are involved in virtually every aspect of Navy missions. As a SWO, you may be in charge of any number of shipboard operations and activities
while at sea, working with or within any of these specialized forces:
● Aircraft Carrier Forces: Provide and coordinate air, submarine and surface ship defense for aircraft carriers.
● Cruiser-Destroyer Forces: Provide ship attack and defensive measures with a wide array of missile and fire power capabilities, providing anti-air, -submarine
and -surface warfare support.
● Amphibious Forces: Embark and transport vehicles, equipment and personnel for amphibious assault operations.
● Combat-Logistics Forces: Provide combatant ships with fuel, ammunition, food and supplies, and provide repair, maintenance and rescue capabilities through Fleet Support Ships.
● Mine Warfare Forces: Detect, identify and neutralize threats from hostile use of maritime mines.
You may also be interested in becoming a Surface Warfare Officer within the prestigious Navy Nuclear community where you will have the opportunity to work on some of the
world’s most powerful nuclear-powered submarines and aircraft carriers.
Work Environment
As a Surface Warfare Officer, you will work at sea and on shore, in a variety of environments. Sea duty could place you aboard ships within the fleet. Shore duty may involve a tour of duty at the Pentagon, a student assignment at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, or command and management positions at shore bases and stations around the world.
A degree from a four-year college or university is a minimum educational requirement to become a Commissioned Officer.
● There are different ways to become a SWO. If you're a high school student or an undergraduate, you can enter through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps
(NROTC) or through the U.S. Naval Academy. Those already having a degree attend Officer Candidate School (OCS), a 12-week Navy school in Newport, RI.
● All candidates must also be U.S. Citizens.
● General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you’re currently serving, whether you’ve served before or whether you’ve never served before.
Part-Time Opportunities
There are part-time opportunities available as a Surface Warfare Officer.
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Benefits
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About US Navy
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Industry
National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Washington, DC, US