Surface Warfare Officer

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are the backbone of the Navy’s operational leadership—responsible for driving, fighting, and commanding the ships that form the heart of America’s maritime power. As a SWO, you’ll develop unmatched leadership and technical expertise while leading Sailors and managing complex operations aboard some of the most advanced warships in the world.

If you’re looking for a fast-paced career that blends leadership, adventure, and global impact, becoming a Navy Surface Warfare Officer may be the opportunity you’ve been seeking.

As a Surface Warfare Officer, you’ll be responsible for every aspect of shipboard operations, from navigation and weapons employment to engineering and personnel management. You will:

• Lead teams of Sailors in critical operational missions.
• Drive and fight multi-billion-dollar warships including destroyers, cruisers, and amphibious ships.
• Manage ship systems—navigation, engineering, communications, combat, and weapons.
• Execute complex maritime operations, humanitarian missions, and multinational exercises.
• Qualify as Officer of the Deck (Underway) and Surface Warfare Officer—your first step toward command.

Later in your career, you can serve in:

• Command at Sea – Lead your own ship or task force.
• Shore Assignments – Strategic planning, education, or staff positions across the globe.
• Specialized Tracks – Opportunities in intelligence, strategy, or joint operations.

From the moment you commission, you’ll receive:

• Competitive salary with regular raises and allowances
• Comprehensive medical and dental coverage
• Housing and food allowances
• 30 days paid vacation annually
• A pension and retirement plan after 20 years of service

Your journey begins at Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Newport, Rhode Island—an intensive leadership and naval indoctrination program.

After commissioning, you’ll attend the Basic Division Officer Course (BDOC), learning shipboard operations, navigation, and warfare tactics before reporting to your first ship.

Career development continues through advanced warfare training, graduate education opportunities, and leadership milestones leading up to Command at Sea.

• Fully funded graduate degrees through the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS)
• Tuition Assistance and the Post-9/11 GI Bill
• Leadership programs at top civilian universities

• Bachelor’s degree (any major)
• Age:
  19–36 years old
• Physically qualified and willing to serve as a commissioned Officer

SWOs serve worldwide—on the oceans, in ports, and across shore commands. One tour may have you navigating through the Pacific; the next, leading a division at the Pentagon or working with allied forces abroad. Wherever you go, you’ll lead Sailors, solve real-world challenges, and see the results of your leadership in action.

Are you ready to lead from the bridge of a U.S. Navy warship?

Apply today to learn more about becoming a Navy Surface Warfare Officer.