Torpedoman's Mate

• Removing, installing and securing weapons components from containers
• Testing equipment using voltmeters, ammeters, meggers and ohmmeters
• Testing and replacing portable cable, self-contained relays, lamps and fuses
• Locating and identifying components and assemblies of electronic equipment
• Checking weapons storage, security and alarm systems
• Maintaining equipment work logs and torpedo record books
• Identifying torpedo components, tools and test equipment
• Using and caring for common hand tools, special tools and soldering equipment
• Performing preventive and corrective maintenance on hydraulic and pneumatic systems and components associated with launching systems
• Serving as team members who may perform inspections and final close-out checks on weapons
• Tracing mechanical/electrical circuits on schematics and drawings

Torpedoman’s Mates serve aboard submarines and will travel underway with them while on sea duty during their careers. Though this is your primary job, you will not be at sea during your entire Navy career—you will also rotate to shore duty, where you’ll be at a land-based command. A Torpedoman's Mate will work in the auxiliary spaces of submarines on a variety of different equipment and weapons systems, which may require some heavy physical work.

Upon completion of initial training at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes (known as Boot Camp), those pursuing a Torpedoman’s Mate role will report to Basic Enlisted Submarine School in Groton, CT, for 9 weeks where they will learn the basics of submarine systems. Immediately following, Sailors will head to an advanced technical Torpedoman’s Mate “A” School.

Here, Sailors will get 10 weeks of hands-on experience with basic mechanical theory, learn about how to maintain and operate the piping systems of submarines and get all the elementary knowledge necessary for an entry-level role as a Torpedoman’s Mate.

Once you finish schooling, you’ll be assigned to any one of our submarines stationed in the U.S. or a variety of countries around the world.

Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance.

Post-Service Opportunities

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.

Beyond offering access to professional credentials and certifications, Navy technical and operational training for a Torpedoman's Mate 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 and Tuition Assistance and the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

A high-school diploma or equivalent is required to become an Enlisted Sailor and Torpedoman's Mate in the Navy. Those interested in this role must have good manual and physical dexterity, above average math skills, good speaking skills and a penchant for teamwork.

As a TM, you will be required to volunteer to serve aboard a submarine. You may be eligible for additional submarine duty pay based on your merit and time served.

General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you’re currently serving, whether you’ve served before or whether you’ve never served before.

There are part-time opportunities available as a Torpedoman's Mate.

Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, TMs in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes.

For annual training, Torpedoman's Mates may serve anywhere in the world, whether on a ship at sea or at bases and installations on shore.

Take a moment to learn more about the general roles and responsibilities of Navy Reserve Sailors.

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.

Torpedoman's Mates in the Navy Reserve serve in an Enlisted role. Before receiving the ongoing professional training that comes with the job, initial training requirements must be met.

For current or former military Enlisted servicemembers, prior experience satisfies the initial Recruit Training requirement, so you will not need to go through Boot Camp again.

For those without prior military experience, you will need to meet the initial Recruit Training requirement by attending Boot Camp in Great Lakes, IL. This training course will prepare you for service in the Navy Reserve and count as your first Annual Training.