Naval Warfare Officer

Overview
As a member of the military, Naval Warfare Officers manage and direct the maritime strategy, tactics and procedures in the operation of ships, submarines and aircraft, maritime sensors, combat information and weapons systems.

Naval Warfare Officers provide input into the design, procurement and evaluation of ships and systems, perform staff training and administrative duties, and are the only officers who can have Command of the Navy’s ships and submarines. Their primary responsibilities are to:

Command, control and coordinate Maritime Military Operations

Lead and make decisions that will affect the general conduct of operations and ship’s crew security

Provide expertise in a wide range of activities relating to the exercise of sea power

Direct and conduct strategies, tactics and procedures in the operation of ships, submarines, aircraft, maritime sensors, combat information and weapons systems

Provide input into the design, procurement and evaluation of ships or systems

Perform staff, training and administrative duties

Work environment
Naval Warfare Officers have two distinct working environments: at sea and ashore. At sea, officers experience the unique challenges and adventures that come with work on the ocean. When ashore, they work a standard day in an office environment.

Note:

Maritime Surface and Sub‑Surface Officer has been renamed to Naval Warfare Officer.

Entry plans

Direct Entry Options

Paid Education Options

If you already have a university degree, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) will decide if your academic program matches the criteria for this job and may place you directly into the required on‑the‑job training program following basic training. Basic training and military officer qualification training are required before being assigned.

Training
After enrollment, officers undergo 12 weeks of basic officer training at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School. Topics covered include general military knowledge, principles of leadership, regulations, customs, basic weapons handling and first aid. A rigorous physical fitness program is also part of the training.

Following basic officer training, official second language training may be offered, taking from two to nine months depending on proficiency.

Officers then attend the Naval Fleet School Pacific in Esquimalt, British Columbia, for 12 months of training focused on navigation, bridge‑keeping, communications, ship safety, emergency procedures and seamanship.

Upon completion, officers are posted to their first operational ship. Approximately 24 months later, they complete at‑sea requirements and on‑the‑job training leading to a Bridge Watchkeeping Certificate and Naval Warfare Officer Professional Qualification.

After six months of practical application, officers specialize for four to six months in one of the following areas:

Ship navigation

Above or underwater weapons direction

Management of information and communication systems

Submarine service

Clearance diving

Part‑time options
This position 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 in their community, and may serve while attending school or working a civilian job. They are paid during training and are not required to move to a new base unless they volunteer.

Reserve Force members serve the same level of training as Regular Force counterparts. They typically serve scheduled evenings and weekends, and may also serve in full‑time positions for fixed terms. They are paid 92.8% of Regular Force rates, receive a reasonable benefits package and may qualify to contribute to a pension plan.

Related careers

Naval Combat Systems Engineering Officer

Air Combat Systems Officer

Marine Systems Engineering Officer

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