Boatswain

Join the Canadian Armed Forces as a Boatswain
, a seamanship specialist responsible for the safe operation and maintenance of the ship’s rigging, shipboard cargo handling equipment, boats, and small craft.

Overview

As a member of the military, Boatswains are responsible for a wide range of tasks, including operating and maintaining shipboard equipment, performing tasks with ship’s rigging and lifesaving equipment, and organizing the storage, training, maintenance, and use of small arms, demolitions, and ammunition.

• Operate and maintain shipboard equipment associated with cargo handling and inter-ship transfers of personnel, fuel, and materiel while at sea
• Operate and maintain the ship’s equipment for tasks such as anchoring, towing, launching and recovering boats, and surface rescue operations
• Operate and navigate small craft in all waters
• Perform required tasks with ship’s rigging and lifesaving equipment
• Organize the storage, training, maintenance, and use of small arms, demolitions, and ammunition
• Prepare and lead demolitions operations in the naval environment
• Plan, organize, and direct ceremonial procedures
• Assist and supervise deck crews in maintaining the ship and its equipment
• Coordinate watch-keeping duties at sea and in harbor

Work Environment

Boatswains work at sea, experiencing the unique adventures and challenges that come with this environment. Ashore, they work as instructors training other naval personnel. Junior Boatswains spend time working outside their occupation performing general duties.

Entry Plans

• Direct Entry Options: no previous work experience or career-related skills are required
• Minimum required education: completion of provincial requirements for Grade 10 or Secondary 4 in Quebec or equivalent secondary school education

Training

The first stage of training is the Basic Military Qualification course. Naval recruits attend the Canadian Forces Fleet School or the Canadian Forces Naval Operations School for approximately five weeks. The next training is specific to the duties of Boatswains and lasts about 12 weeks.

• Perform General Duties in the Naval Environment
• Perform as a Member of the Force Protection Team
• Perform as a Member of the Damage Control Organization
• Carry Out Survival Drills

Part-time Options

This occupation is available for part-time employment with the Primary Reserve at certain locations across Canada. Reserve Force members usually serve part-time at a Naval Reserve Division and may serve while going to school or working at a civilian job.