Fire Controlman - US Navy Reserve : Job Details

ABOUT Think you have what it takes to ready, aim and fire some of our deadliest weapons? If you're a Fire Controlman, you are the foundation of a ship's combat readiness, protecting the ship from inbound aircraft with the 5-inch guns, or conducting offensive strikes with the Tomahawk cruise missile weapon system. But these guns require more than just good aim. As one of only two ratings in the Advanced Electronics/Computer Field (AECF), you will operate, maintain and control everything from radars, fire control systems and computer systems to the Navy's most advanced missile system, Aegis, which uses radar technology to detect, track and eliminate targets all in one. This job requires highly specialized training and intricate attention. From detection to defense, you are prepared to neutralize enemy targets as the need arises. The mission of the Navy Reserve is to provide strategic depth and deliver operational capabilities to the Navy and Marine Corps team and Joint forces, in times of peace or war. Navy Reserve Sailors seamlessly support and actively aid that mission, all while continuing to lead their own independent lives in the civilian world. RESPONSIBILITIES Fire Controlmen provide system employment recommendations, perform organizational and intermediate maintenance on digital computer equipment, subsystems and systems and operate and maintain combat and weapons direction systems. On any given day, they may: Make analysis for detailed systems, computer programs, electronics and electronic casualty control Operate built-in and external test equipment; load, initialize and run diagnostics Operate the Aegis Weapon System, which includes one of the most powerful air-search radars, deployed at sea around the world, the SPY-1 Run performance and testing routines for digital computer equipment, digital systems and overall combat systems WORK ENVIRONMENT You'll have the opportunity to work onboard the Navy's fleet of surface ships including Aegis-equipped cruisers and destroyers as well as training commands and repair activities ashore. Regarding potential locations, your job can take you virtually anywhere around the globe. TRAINING AND ADVANCEMENT You must be a prior service Sailor in the Fire Controlman rating to affiliate into the rate as a Reservist, however there are exciting “C” Schools that will be available for you to attend depending on your assignment. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. It's also important to note that specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields in the civilian sector. PAY AND BENEFITS When you serve your country, you become a part of something truly important – and you deserve to be rewarded accordingly. Navy Reservists enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits, from state-of-the-art training to extensive educational assistance, VA benefits and more. In return for your service and dedication, the Navy Reserve provides you with the benefits to succeed in both your military and civilian lives: Receive 4 days of basic pay for only 2 days worked (16 hours) each drill weekend Opportunities to acquire new skills and sharpen existing ones, enhancing your civilian career Educational assistance Tax-free, worldwide Navy Exchange and commissary privileges for you and your family VA guaranteed home loans Low-cost insurance options, including up to $400,000 in life insurance Travel opportunities Earn points toward retirement benefits every time you drill Retirement after 20 qualifying years TRICARE EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES Beyond offering access to professional credentials and certifications, Navy technical and operational training as an Engineman can translate to credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate degree through the American Council on Education. You may also continue your education through undergraduate degree opportunities like the Navy College Program, Tuition Assistance, Post-9/11 GI Bill, or Montgomery GI Bill for SELRES depending on what you qualify for. QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS U.S. citizen eligible for security clearance High school graduate or equivalent 17 years of age or older Important qualifications include knowledge of arithmetic, the capability to understand modern computing devices, the ability to speak and write well, function as a member of a team, do detailed work and keep accurate records. Additionally, they must possess some physical strength, good manual dexterity and normal color perception. ABOUT THE NAVY RESERVE Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Fire Controlmen in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes. For annual training, Fire Controlmen may serve anywhere in the world, whether on a ship at sea or at bases and installations on shore. Most of what you do in the Navy Reserve is considered training. The basic Navy Reserve commitment involves training a minimum of one weekend a month (referred to as drilling) and two weeks a year (referred to as Annual Training) – or the equivalent of that.