U.S. Navy, Oceanography Officer; Reserve - via

U.S. Navy, Oceanography Officer (Reserve)

About Meteorology and Oceanography:
Every natural law that dictates the Navy’s actions requires expert forecasting and mapping. At sea or ashore, Officers inform the Navy of weather patterns, prepare comprehensive maps, and oversee Aerographer’s Mates who forecast the weather. Planning air missions, charting ship courses, or identifying currents that affect submarines—all rely on meteorology and oceanography. Join the team that studies how our environment changes our actions.

• Guide ships, aircraft, and troops with recommendations based on weather forecasts and ocean conditions.
• Relay forecast updates and weather warnings to military and civilian authorities.
• Prepare ocean, sea, and waterway charts and maps for navigation, search-and-rescue, and other missions.
• Maintain the Navy’s primary master clock, providing the most precise time interval in the world and driving GPS.
• Oversee the work of Aerographer’s Mates who monitor weather conditions and provide forecast information.

Those pursuing this position must attend Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Newport, RI, then a 5‑week Basic Oceanography Accession Training (BOAT) in Gulfport, MS. Specialized training follows. Career progression typically moves from an operational tour to a Naval Oceanography tour, then an education tour, with opportunities on aircraft carriers, strike group staff, and specialized roles.

Promotion opportunities are regularly available and competitive, based on performance. Specialized training and experience can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related civilian fields.

Officers may advance their education at institutions such as the Naval Postgraduate School, Navy War College, or Joint Professional Military Education programs. Dual master’s degrees in meteorology and physical oceanography are common, with opportunities to earn a doctoral degree while serving.

• A four‑year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in a technical field (physics, physics‑based oceanography, meteorology, hydrography, earth science, or engineering).
• U.S. citizenship, eligibility for a secret security clearance, and qualification for sea duty.
• General qualifications may vary depending on prior service status.

Part‑time Roles are available as a Navy Reserve Officer. Duties occur during scheduled drilling and training periods, typically near home locations monthly and around the world during annual training.