Navy Electronics Technician (ET): Definitive Guide
Mission success often depends on acting before an opponent can respond.
Electronics Technicians (ETs) operate and maintain radar and other shipboard electronic systems that help the watch team detect, track, and report contacts. ETs also troubleshoot faults and keep critical gear online during long operations.
ETs may support electronic warfare tasks when assigned. That work can include setting up and operating electronic countermeasures that jam, confuse, or degrade some enemy sensors. These actions can reduce accurate tracking and complicate targeting. The systems do not make a ship invisible, but they can help protect the ship when used correctly.
This job requires technical skill and steady attention to detail. The crew relies on ETs to keep sensors and electronic systems working when the pace increases.
Job Description
Electronics Technicians (ET) are Navy enlisted Sailors who perform, oversee, and coordinate the maintenance, calibration, configuration, and alignment of cryptographic, radar, navigation, and Command, Control, Computer, Communication, and Intelligence (C4I) systems aboard Navy vessels. This work includes using test equipment and technical drawings.
Navy Electronics Technicians keep shipboard systems running on ships and landing craft, at sea and in port. ETs support day-to-day operations and help keep equipment ready for real-world tasking. Some assignments also support humanitarian missions and disaster response when the Navy responds to emergencies.
- Around 9,000 Sailors. ET is one of the Navy’s key technical ratings.
- Six-year commitment. Many ETs enter through the Advanced Electronics and Computer Field (AECF) pipeline, which includes longer training.
- Selective entry. The AECF program screens for strong academic performance and high reliability because the work involves advanced systems.
ETs keep critical electronics working. That readiness supports the fleet in routine operations, crisis response, and combat.
Specific Responsibilities
Electronics Technicians keep Navy systems running. Radar. Comms. Navigation. Countermeasures. They work with computer, aerospace, and electrical engineering to stay mission-ready. What they do:
- Spot enemy ships and aircraft. Track them. Measure distance.
- Fix, calibrate, and maintain radar, tracking, and countermeasure systems.
- Keep electronic equipment running. Radar. Comms. Navigation.
- Work with hand tools and power tools. Whatever gets the job done.
They make sure the ship sees the enemy before the enemy sees them.
Different Roles
Electronics Communications Technician
Handles communications equipment on ships, shore stations, and portable systems.
- Troubleshoots, repairs, and aligns communications gear.
- Restores equipment after system failures.
- Manages maintenance records and updates reports.
- Supervises personnel for inventory and testing.
Electronics Data Systems Technician
Works with computer-based electronics and network systems.
- Analyzes equipment operation and configures networks.
- Troubleshoots and repairs electronic systems.
- Restores operability of assigned computer-based equipment.
- Manages test equipment calibration and updates records.
- Supervises inventories, maintenance, and safety checks.
Electronics Radar Systems Technician
Maintains radar systems used for tracking and navigation.
- Analyzes, troubleshoots, and repairs radar equipment.
- Updates records and manages calibration requirements.
- Conducts safety checks and supervises personnel.
- Manages radar system inventory and maintenance.
Electronics Systems Manager
Oversees technicians, equipment, and training programs.
- Trains junior technicians in qualification standards and system operations.
- Manages maintenance, troubleshooting, and testing across multiple teams.
- Reports system capabilities and limitations to senior personnel.
- Oversees safety programs, inspections, and certifications.
- Drafts and updates procedures, reports, and manuals.
From repairing frontline systems to leading entire teams, each specialty plays a role in keeping the Navy mission-ready.
Rank Structure
| 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 | Electronics Technician Third Class | ET3 | Petty Officer Third Class |
| E-5 | Electronics Technician Second Class | ET2 | Petty Officer Second Class |
| E-6 | Electronics Technician First Class | ET1 | Petty Officer First Class |
| E-7 | Chief Electronics Technician | ETC | Chief Petty Officer |
| E-8 | Senior Chief Electronics Technician | ETCS | Senior Chief Petty Officer |
| E-9 | Master Chief Electronics Technician | ETCM | Master Chief Petty Officer |
Salary and Benefits
Salary for the First 6 Years
Monthly pay for Navy enlisted Sailors (E-1 to E-6) in the first six years is laid out in the January 2026 Active Duty Pay chart:
| Pay Grade | 2 Years or Less | Over 2 Years | Over 3 Years | Over 4 Years | Over 6 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| E-1 | $2,407.20 | $2,407.20 | $2,407.20 | $2,407.20 | $2,407.20 |
| E-2 | $2,697.90 | $2,697.90 | $2,697.90 | $2,697.90 | $2,697.90 |
| E-3 | $2,836.80 | $3,015.30 | $3,198.30 | $3,198.30 | $3,198.30 |
| E-4 | $3,142.20 | $3,302.40 | $3,481.80 | $3,658.20 | $3,814.80 |
| E-5 | $3,426.90 | $3,657.90 | $3,835.20 | $4,016.10 | $4,297.80 |
| E-6 | $3,741.30 | $4,117.80 | $4,299.30 | $4,476.60 | $4,660.20 |
Extra Pays and Allowances
- 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.
- Bonuses and incentives: The Navy may offer enlistment, skill, or reenlistment bonuses for certain training pipelines and manning needs.
Benefits
- 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 insurance, family support programs, and VA benefits after separation, based on eligibility.
Training and Promotion Opportunities
Initial Training
After Boot Camp in Great Lakes, IL, you report to technical training.
- Apprentice Technical Training (11 weeks). Teaches basic electronics, safety, circuits, fiber optics, and troubleshooting.
- ET “A” School (19 weeks). Covers communications systems, satellite equipment, radar, transmitters, and receivers. After “A” School, some Sailors attend “C” School for advanced training. Next, you report to the fleet or a shore command in the U.S. or overseas. Advancement can happen on a steady cycle, but it is not guaranteed. Performance drives results.
Advanced Training
With time on the job, ETs may qualify for advanced training. These courses build deeper skill in specific systems and help Sailors take on more complex maintenance and watchstanding work.
ETs who want leadership can also pursue Officer roles. Eligibility depends on program requirements, performance, and education. Many officer programs require a college degree. Officers lead teams, manage readiness, and train Sailors.
Post-Service Opportunities
ET skills can transfer into civilian work. Common paths include:
- Electrical engineering
- Network and computer support
- Telecommunications
- Cybersecurity
ETs leave the Navy with hands-on experience using technical tools and procedures. That background can support certifications and help with job placement after service.
Qualifications and Eligibility
To qualify as an Enlisted Sailor and an Electronics Technician, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent and be a U.S. citizen who can qualify for a security clearance.
ET candidates also need solid arithmetic, writing, and speaking skills. Comfort with computers and electronic devices matters. The job rewards careful work, accurate records, and strong teamwork.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify as an Electronics Technician (ET), you need:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- U.S. citizenship
- Eligibility for a security clearance
- Normal hearing
- Normal color vision (no waivers)
Skills and abilities that help:
- Math, writing, and communication. You must understand technical information and explain it clearly.
- Computers and electronics. You will work with circuits, systems, and troubleshooting tools.
- Attention to detail. Repairs must be precise, and documentation must be accurate.
- Teamwork. ETs coordinate with other ratings to keep systems online.
- Manual dexterity and strength. The job includes small components and heavier shipboard gear.
General qualifications can vary based on whether you are new to the military, prior service, or currently serving.
ASVAB Requirement
Applicants must meet the minimum ASVAB line score to qualify for ET.
ASVAB for ET:
- MK + EI + GS = 156 and AR = 223
The enlistment qualification requirements listed above reflect Fiscal Year 2026 guidance, based on the Navy Personnel Command career management resources.
More Information
To learn more about becoming an Electronics Technician (ET), contact your local Navy Enlisted Recruiter. A recruiter can confirm eligibility, current ASVAB requirements, and any program changes.
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