Information Systems Technician – Submarine, Networks (ITN): Navy Reserve

Submarines operate with strict control over sound and information. The Navy Reserve Information Systems Technician – Submarine, Networks (ITN) helps protect that control.

ITNs manage and secure network and communication systems used on submarines. They support tactical data flow and help keep information private and reliable while the boat operates underwater.

Ready to learn what this role involves and what it takes to qualify? Keep reading.

Job Role and Responsibilities

Job Description

Information Systems Technicians – Submarine, Networks (ITN) in the Navy Reserve design, install, operate, and maintain advanced information systems technology, including local and wide area networks, mainframe, mini and microcomputer systems, and associated peripheral devices.

Daily Tasks

• Provide tiered-level customer support by coordinating software, hardware, and networks; install, configure, troubleshoot, and provide maintenance and training.
• Manage and secure commercial network operating systems within the functional areas of configuration, systems, and performance management.
• Identify vulnerabilities and perform corrective actions to ensure system confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Specific Roles

Below are the key Navy Enlisted Classifications (NECs) for the ITN role, each defining a specialized technical focus within submarine network operations.

Mission Contribution

ITNs ensure the operational readiness of submarine communication and network systems, directly supporting secure and effective undersea missions.​

Technology and Equipment

ITNs work with state-of-the-art information systems technology, including local and wide area networks, mainframe, mini and microcomputer systems, and associated peripheral devices.

They also operate and coordinate telecommunications systems, including automated networks and the full spectrum of data links and circuits.

Work Environment

Setting and Schedule

ITNs in the Navy Reserve operate primarily in secure, enclosed environments aboard submarines or onshore commands.

They work in small, highly secure compartments equipped with advanced computer and network systems.

Typical schedules include irregular shifts, rotating watches, and extended duty cycles during submarine deployments.

When ashore, schedules align more with traditional workweeks, but mobilizations may alter this.

Leadership and Communication

The chain of command is hierarchical and mission-focused, headed by senior enlisted leaders and submarine officers.

ITNs report to a Chief Petty Officer or directly to a division officer aboard submarines.

Communication flows through formal reporting structures, including operational briefings and secured digital communication.

Performance feedback is given routinely through counseling sessions and formal evaluations, typically conducted semiannually.

Team Dynamics and Autonomy

Submarine operations demand tight-knit teamwork under high-stress conditions.

ITNs frequently collaborate with other submarine ratings, such as Sonar Technicians and Fire Control Technicians.

Despite team integration, ITNs hold significant autonomy managing networks and cybersecurity tasks during operations.

They make rapid decisions to counter network vulnerabilities or communication failures.

Job Satisfaction and Retention

Retention rates for Navy Reserve ITNs are moderate to high, driven by technical career paths and advancement potential.

Success is measured by system uptime, mission-readiness reports, and successful cybersecurity defense.

Current service members report high satisfaction linked to specialized skills acquisition and mission-critical responsibilities.

Training and Skill Development

Initial Training

All Navy Reserve ITNs complete initial training through Navy Recruit Training Command and specialized “A” School.

Training Pipeline

Advanced Training

ITNs can attend C schools and NEC-producing courses later in their career. These schools teach advanced system administration, network defense, and newer submarine technologies.

The Navy often encourages certifications such as CompTIA Security+ and CISSP. Many ITNs also build skills through drills, fleet exercises, and mobilization assignments.

Submarine IT changes fast, so training does not stop after initial school. Navy programs and some civilian-accredited courses support ongoing learning.

Physical Demands and Medical Evaluations

Physical Requirements

ITNs must meet Navy-wide Physical Readiness Test (PRT) standards and maintain them throughout service.

Daily duties aboard submarines are not physically strenuous but require endurance and alertness in confined spaces.

Tasks often involve standing for extended periods, moving through tight compartments, and managing equipment under stress.

Current Navy PRT Minimums

Daily Physical Demands

Submarine ITNs endure prolonged seated or standing positions while monitoring systems and responding to network issues.

Equipment maintenance may require crawling into compact electronic spaces or lifting components weighing up to 45 pounds.

Stress management is critical due to the isolated submarine environment.

Medical Evaluations

Candidates must pass a Submarine Duty physical, ensuring fitness for undersea environments. This includes pressure-related screenings and audiometric testing. Periodic reevaluations are conducted to ensure continued submarine fitness.

Annual medical checks assess overall health, hearing, and cardiovascular endurance.

Deployment and Duty Stations

Deployment Details

Navy Reserve ITNs face moderate deployment likelihood. Mobilizations can range from several months to a year, depending on operational needs.

Deployments primarily occur aboard submarines operating in both domestic and international waters. ITNs may also deploy to shore commands supporting submarine operations or cybersecurity missions.

Location Flexibility

Duty stations are assigned based on fleet needs and ITN qualifications. Submarine ITNs serve at primary homeports supporting Atlantic and Pacific operations.

Assignments include coastal and forward-deployed locations.

• Groton, Connecticut – Hosts Submarine Base New London and Naval Submarine School.
• Kings Bay, Georgia – Home to ballistic missile submarines at Submarine Base Kings Bay.
• Pearl Harbor, Hawaii – Supports Pacific Fleet submarines at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

Reserve ITNs may request duty stations, depending on billet availability. However, mission needs determine final placement.

Career Progression and Advancement

Career Path

ITNs advance through structured Navy Reserve ranks, guided by time in service, performance, and leadership development.

Typical ITN Career Progression

Promotion and Professional Growth

Promotion is based on evaluation scores, advancement exams, and leadership board reviews.

ITNs improve promotion chances through advanced training, leadership qualifications, and stellar performance evaluations. Achieving technical certifications also enhances competitiveness.

Specialization Opportunities

Submarine ITNs pursue NEC-producing training to specialize in advanced network systems, cybersecurity, and submarine-specific technologies.

NECs expand career options and lead to higher-responsibility billets. Sailors apply for NEC training after meeting rank, time-in-service, and command recommendation requirements.

Role Flexibility and Transfers

ITNs may transition to other Navy Reserve information warfare roles, such as Cyber Warfare Technician (CWT) or cyber defense billets.

Transfers require command endorsement and completion of a formal conversion process. Eligibility depends on technical performance, leadership potential, and current billet openings.

Performance Evaluation

Evaluations occur regularly and assess technical expertise, leadership, mission contribution, and teamwork. Strong marks are essential for advancement.

Review boards prioritize readiness, professional development, and documented achievements.

Success Factors

ITNs succeed through technical proficiency, adaptability, and leadership growth. Advanced qualifications, continuous training, and operational readiness are critical to long-term advancement.

Salary and Benefits

Financial Benefits

Reserve pay is based on your pay grade, years of service, and the type of orders you are on. DFAS publishes the 2026 reserve drill pay table.

The examples below use 2 years or less of service, a standard drill weekend (4 drills), and 14 days of annual training.

Estimated annual total assumes 12 drill weekends (48 drills) and 14 days of annual training. Taxes, allowances, and special pays can change the total.

When you are on active duty orders, you are paid using the 2026 active duty basic pay table and may qualify for allowances like housing (BAH) and food (BAS). See the BAS rates.

Other pay items can apply based on your assignment and qualifications:

• Career Sea Pay: If you are assigned to qualifying sea duty while on active orders, you may receive career sea pay.
• Submarine Duty Incentive Pay: Qualified Sailors assigned to submarine duty can receive monthly submarine pay while on active orders.

Additional Benefits

• Healthcare: TRICARE Reserve Select is available for many drilling Reservists, with premiums and eligibility that can change by plan year.
• Retirement: Retirement points and a Reserve retirement for qualifying service (often described as 20 good years).
• Education: GI Bill and other education benefits may be available based on eligibility and service.
• Other benefits: Commissary and exchange access, VA home loan eligibility, and other benefits based on status and time in service.

Risk, Safety, and Legal Considerations

Job Hazards

ITNs aboard submarines operate under high-risk conditions. Submerged environments create hazards such as restricted movement, limited escape routes, and prolonged confinement.

Electrical hazards exist while servicing network systems and power-driven equipment. Cyber operations introduce mental strain during sustained high-threat network defense scenarios. Extended isolation and continuous system monitoring increase physical and psychological demands.

Safety Protocols

Navy submarine protocols mitigate these risks through enforced procedures. ITNs complete mandatory safety training, including confined space entry and electrical safety.

Daily checks and system inspections ensure equipment integrity. The crew conducts regular emergency drills, including fire response, flooding control, and casualty procedures.

Cybersecurity teams follow strict incident response protocols to secure systems during attacks or failures.

Security and Legal Requirements

All ITNs must obtain and maintain at least a Secret clearance. Some billets, including cyber defense and submarine communication roles, require Top Secret eligibility.

The clearance process involves security interviews, background investigations, and periodic reinvestigations. ITNs are subject to the UCMJ and reserve contract terms, including mandatory drill attendance and mobilization readiness.

Deployment in Conflict Zones

ITNs may deploy to areas supporting conflict zone operations. Submarine missions often involve high-stakes intelligence and surveillance near contested regions.

Mobilizations follow operational orders and lawful directives. During emergencies or rising tensions, ITNs may face extended deployments under heightened security and force protection postures.

Impact on Family and Personal Life

Family Considerations

Navy Reserve ITNs must balance service demands with personal responsibilities. Drill weekends, annual training, and mobilizations require time away from home.

Submarine deployments add extended separations, often with limited communication. Families must adapt to unpredictable schedules and possible short-notice mobilizations.

Support is available through Navy Reserve Family Readiness programs, counseling services, and command ombudsmen.

Relocation and Flexibility

Reserve ITNs typically serve near their home region. However, mobilization orders may require relocation to active duty stations or deployment staging areas.

Relocation is temporary but may last months. Flexibility is essential for rapid assignment changes, mission requirements, or specialized training.

Family support services assist with transitions during relocations and extended duty periods.

Post-Service Opportunities

Transition to Civilian Life

ITNs transition into civilian careers using submarine-acquired technical skills. Common post-service opportunities include:

• Network administration – Focused on maintaining and securing enterprise networks.
• Cybersecurity roles – Positions in threat detection, network defense, and incident response.
• Information systems management – Overseeing IT teams, projects, and systems architecture.
• Defense contracting – Supporting classified government or military systems with advanced IT skills.
• Federal employment – Roles in agencies requiring technical expertise and security clearance.

Support programs include:

• Navy COOL – Provides credentialing for certifications like Security+ and CISSP.
• DoW SkillBridge – Facilitates internships with civilian employers before separation.
• Transition Assistance Program (TAP) – Offers resume workshops, interview preparation, and job placement resources.

Civilian Career Prospects

Qualifications and Eligibility

Basic Qualifications

Applicants must meet Navy Reserve enlistment criteria and submarine-specific requirements.

Minimum Entry Standards

Application Process

Applicants complete a multi-step process:

• Meet with a Navy Reserve recruiter to assess eligibility and explain Reserve obligations.
• Complete ASVAB testing at an authorized testing site.
• Pass a Submarine Duty medical screening, including hearing and pressure tolerance evaluations.
• Submit security clearance paperwork for background screening.
• Attend MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station) for physical and enlistment contract signing.
• Receive job classification and ship date based on qualifications and billet availability.

The selection timeline varies but typically completes within 2 to 6 months, depending on clearance processing and billet needs.

Selection Criteria and Competitiveness

Selection is competitive. Preferred candidates exceed ASVAB minimums and demonstrate strong technical aptitude.

Prior IT or network experience improves selection chances. Physical and medical fitness are mandatory for submarine service.

Is This a Good Job for You? The Right (and Wrong) Fit

Ideal Candidate Profile

Successful ITNs typically exhibit:

• Strong technical aptitude – Proficient in networks, systems, and cybersecurity.
• Attention to detail – Accurate in monitoring and securing submarine information systems.
• Resilience – Performs well under high-stress, confined, and isolated conditions.
• Discipline – Follows strict submarine protocols and Navy standards.
• Problem-solving skills – Diagnoses and resolves system issues independently or as part of a team.

Potential Challenges

Candidates may face challenges such as:

• Extended isolation – Long periods underwater with limited external communication.
• Confined workspaces – Operations in restricted submarine compartments.
• Irregular schedules – Mobilizations and watches disrupt personal routines.
• Operational stress – Continuous readiness for system failures or cybersecurity threats.

Career and Lifestyle Alignment

This role fits individuals who:

• Seek careers in IT, cybersecurity, or military leadership.
• Want technical mastery and structured advancement paths.
• Are prepared for irregular duty cycles and mission-focused environments.

This role does not suit individuals who:

• Prefer predictable, low-stress jobs.
• Avoid confined or isolated settings.
• Desire minimal commitment to physical or operational demands.

More Information

If you wish to learn more about becoming an Information Systems Technician – Submarine, Networks (ITN) in the Navy Reserve, contact your local Navy Enlisted Recruiter. They will provide you with more detailed information you’re unlikely to find online.

You may also be interested in the following related Navy Reserve Submarine Enlisted jobs:

• Information Systems Technician – Submarine, Radio (ITR)

• Torpedoman’s Mate (TM)