BM-TAR Career Path

BM-TAR Community Overview

BM Career Path

BM Community Overview

General Description

This enlistment program option enables men and women to eventually qualify for one of several Navy ratings (skill specialties) through on-the-job Seaman Apprenticeship training. The program also offers apprenticeship training in a rating that may not be available at the time of enlistment. After completion of recruit training, enlistees in the Seaman Apprenticeship Training Program attend a three-week course on basic theory in shipboard operations and evolution's. After successful completion of this training, Seamen are usually assigned to shipboard duties where the Navy needs them the most. Seamen can request and may receive on-the-job training in a rating that they are interested in, qualified for and is available at their first command by completing correspondence courses and personal advancement requirements. They must also be recommended by their commanding officer for the Navy rating they desire. Seamen may also attend Navy schools to learn about general damage control, shipboard fire fighting, preventive maintenance of special equipment, and the use of special tools used in the rating they are working in or seeking.

What They Do

The duties performed by Seamen include: serving as helmsmen and lookouts; repairing, maintaining and stowing equipment in preparation for underway operations; working in non-engineering divisions of the ship or station; standing security watches while in port and under way;
operating sound-powered telephone systems; doing temporary duty for 90-120 days with food services divisions or compartment cleaning; serving as a member of damage control, emergency and security alert teams; participating in naval ceremonies; taking part in underway replenishment (transferring supplies from ship to ship at sea); working with qualified personnel to gain job training and experience.
 
Working Environment 
 
Boatswain’s Mates perform most of their duties outdoors, working closely with others, and the majority of the work they perform is physical in nature.

Requirements ASVAB:  

AR+AS+MK+VE=175 or AS+MK+AO=135
 
Note: Advancement opportunity and career progression are directly linked to a rating's manning level (i.e., personnel in undermanned ratings have greater opportunity than those in overmanned ratings). Rating conversions will normally only be considered for those who are in appropriately manned or overmanned ratings who seek entry into undermanned ratings. Please see a career counselor for more information.