LSS – Logistics Specialist – Submarines

Navy Logistics Specialist – Submarines (LSS):
Definitive Guide

A submarine cannot operate without the right parts. Food, fuel, tools, even a single missing bolt can slow the crew down. Logistics Specialists (Submarines) help prevent that.

They track equipment, order supplies, and inspect shipments. Conditions can be rough, even far out  job stays the same. If the submarine needs something, they work the problem and get it there.

Logistics Specialists - Submarines (LSS) are enlisted Sailors who manage inventories of repair parts and general supplies. They also handle mail distribution for submarines and shore-based activities.

LSSs keep a submarine stocked and able to operate. Without the right parts, the mission can stall. They order, track, store, plus distribute what the submarine needs, ranging from repair items to mail deliveries.

• Procure, receive, store, and issue materials and repair parts.
• Manage inventory databases and generate reports.
• Operate Navy post offices on land and at sea, handling mail distribution for subs.
• Inspect incoming cargo to make sure everything checks out.
• Handle financial records and logs for inventory and supply management.
• Use logistics and accounting software to track and manage stock.

• Offices, warehouses, storage rooms on submarines.
• Air cargo terminals at naval air stations.
• Shore-based operations and supply hubs.

• About 450 Logistics Specialists (Submarines) serve in the Navy.
• Work is both independent and team-based, decisions matter.

Every part, every supply, every shipment—it all runs through them. If something’s missing, they’re the ones who fix it.

The hands‑on supply expert. These Sailors handle every part of the submarine’s supply chain—from ordering parts to tracking inventory.

• Receive, store, distribute, and track materials.
• Inspect and audit supply areas for accuracy.
• Manage financial records and fix discrepancies.
• Maintain supply databases and generate reports.

The big‑picture planner. Oversees supply operations, procurement, and financial management.

• Handle material procurement, financial accounting, and administration.
• Manage warehouses: receiving, storing, and issuing supplies.
• Track and inventory repairable assets and mission‑critical parts.
• Work with vendors, contractors, and supply agents to secure materials.
• Develop deployment load‑out plans to ensure the sub has everything it needs.

Pay Grade

Rate

Abbreviation

Title

E-1 Seaman Recruit SR Seaman Recruit

E-2 Seaman Apprentice SA Seaman Apprentice

E-3 Seaman SN Seaman

E-4 Logistics Specialist Submarines Third Class LSS3 Petty Officer Third Class

E-5 Logistics Specialist Submarines Second Class LSS2 Petty Officer Second Class

E-6 Logistics Specialist Submarines First Class LSS1 Petty Officer First Class

E-7 Chief Logistics Specialist Submarines LSSC Chief Petty Officer

E-8 Senior Chief Logistics Specialist Submarines LSSCS Senior Chief Petty Officer

E-9 Master Chief Logistics Specialist Submarines LSSCM Master Chief Petty Officer

• Housing allowance (BAH): A tax‑free allowance when you live off base. Rates depend on pay grade, location, and dependency status.
• Food allowance (BAS):
  Enlisted Sailors receive $476.95 per month in 2026. See the BAS rates.
• Career Sea Pay:
  Extra monthly pay for qualifying sea duty. Amounts depend on pay grade and sea time. See the Career Sea Pay table.
• Submarine Duty Incentive Pay:
  Monthly submarine pay for qualified Sailors assigned to submarine duty. Amounts depend on pay grade and years of service. See the submarine pay table.
• Bonuses and incentives:
  The Navy may offer enlistment, skill, or reenlistment bonuses for certain training pipelines and manning needs.
• Healthcare:
  Medical and dental care through TRICARE for the member, with options for dependents.
• Leave: 30 days of paid leave each year, plus federal holidays when operationally possible.
• Education:
  
  Tuition Assistance and GI Bill benefits for qualifying service.
• Retirement:
  Blended Retirement System (BRS) with Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) contributions when eligible, plus a pension after 20 years of service.
• Other benefits:
  Life…