For Educators: Military Resources
Military Ship and Submarine Officers
Median Salary
125,789
Workforce Count
19,169
Overview
What are the responsibilities of this role?
Ship and submarine officers command or supervise operations of watercraft vessels on oceans, bays, sounds, lakes, and coastal waters. They are responsible for the proper operation and safety of the vessel, including discipline of the crew and seaworthiness of the vessel. Ship and submarine officers also direct diving activities in connection with underwater salvage, repair or rescue work, and administer or instruct all phases of diving.
What is the work environment like?
Ship and submarine officers work aboard their vessels. Engineering officers are subjected to hot, humid, and noisy environments. Submarine officers work in confined spaces for extended periods.
How many people have this role in the Military?
19,169
Compensation
Understanding How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary
Base pay is the standard income you’ll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.
- Always fixed based on rank and service time.
- Distributed monthly.
What is the typical salary range?
Salary by Years of Service
$149,520
2 Years
$96,486
6 Years
$149,520
10+ Years
Median Salary
Military Details
What Service Branches offer this role?
Is this a staff or leadership role?
Officers are service members who plan, direct operations and manage enlisted personnel, developing a broad range of leadership-related skills.
Learn More About Enlisted and Officer PathsWhat does the training for this role entail?
Job training for ship and submarine officers primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in one of the following departments: air, weapons, operations, communications, engineering, deck, administration, or supply. Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training may include:
- Management and organization of ship or submarine operations
- Piloting and navigation of ships
- Interpretation of maritime laws and policies
Education
What level of education do professionals in this role have?
Which college majors best prepare you for this role?
- Marine Science/Merchant Marine Officer
Learn About How Military Can Pay for 100% of your College Degree
The Military has several programs that cover college costs — so you can pursue your education with little to no debt.
Learn More About Paying For CollegeSkills and Interest
What knowledge is essential to bring to the table?
- Transportation
- Mechanical
- Public Safety and Security
- Geography
- Customer and Personal Service
What personality traits help people thrive in this role?
Realistic
You love hands-on work and solving practical problems — like fixing things and building stuff.
Conventional
You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.
Enterprising
You love taking risks in business or personal projects — and have the leadership skills to back it up.
RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.
Take the RIASEC Test