Navy Yeoman – Submarines (YNS): Definitive Guide

An office job does not have to mean corporate life. As a Navy Yeoman, you handle clerical work in a fast-moving, high-stakes setting. The paperwork matters. You may manage legal records, prepare reports for Commanding Officers, and process promotion documents.

One day, you might manage court records for a submarine legal team. The next day, you could compile reports that support critical decisions. These administrative skills stay useful across many Navy assignments.

Ready to take your administrative career beneath the waves?

Job Description

YNS Insignia – Credit: U.S. Navy

Yeomen – Submarines (YNS) handle administrative and clerical tasks aboard submarines and shore-based commands. They keep things organized, efficient, and secure.

• Manage office operations: typing, filing, preparing correspondence.
• Handle personnel records, pay, and official publications.
• Support legal teams: maintain files, assist with legal proceedings.
• Coordinate travel, overseas operations, and security requirements.
• Organize command-level ceremonies and interviews.
• Assist with career guidance: help Sailors with promotions, benefits, and training.
• Oversee classified records and enforce security protocols.

Where They Work

YNS personnel serve on submarines and shore installations worldwide. Though their specialty is submarine duty, their work setting is typically an administrative office.

They may work independently with minimal supervision or as part of a closely supervised team, depending on the assignment.

By the Numbers

• Approx. 600 Yeomen serve in this role across the Navy.
• YNSs split their careers between submarines and shore duty, typically 50% at sea, 50% on land.
• Level of independence varies based on assignment and experience.

Specific Responsibilities

• Sort and distribute mail, including official mail and personal mail.
• Manage payroll and financial records for officers and enlisted personnel.
• Protect and maintain classified records and reports.
• Support Navy public affairs work by helping coordinate media needs.
• Plan and arrange command ceremonies.
• Prepare and route correspondence, reports, plus publications.
• Manage personnel files and other office records.
• Handle phone calls, greet visitors, and manage office schedules.
• Complete administrative work tied to legal proceedings.
• Serve as office managers to keep daily operations running smoothly.

A submarine depends on precision and order. YNS help keep the behind-the-scenes work organized so the command stays on track.

Different Roles

Submarine Administrative Assistant

Keeps daily operations running smoothly on submarines and shore facilities.

• Prepares, types, and routes correspondence and reports.
• Operates computers, copiers, and audio-recording devices.
• Manages records, filing systems, and databases.
• Coordinates travel arrangements, budgets, and office maintenance.
• Handles sensitive information related to submarine missions.

Must be organized, detail-oriented, and able to work under pressure. Works independently or in teams.

Submarine Administrative Manager

Leads administrative personnel and oversees office operations.

• Trains and manages administrative staff.
• Maintains files, records, and official publications.
• Oversees travel programs and daily office operations.
• Supports legal proceedings and personnel coordination.
• Provides assistance to visitors and executive-level staff.

Must be highly organized, independent, and able to handle confidential information.

Submarine Administrative Office Supervisor

Manages office workflow, personnel, and customer service.

• Communicates work procedures and policies.
• Ensures tasks are completed accurately and on time.
• Evaluates job performance and compliance.
• Advises executive personnel and senior leadership.
• Creates work schedules and duty assignments.

Requires multi-tasking, problem-solving, and strong leadership skills. Fast-paced, high-responsibility role.

Rank Structure

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:

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.
• 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.

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 Career Opportunities

Initial Training

Yeomen receive formal Navy schooling and on-the-job training to prepare for long-term career growth. After Boot Camp at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes, future Yeoman – Submarines (YNS) report to:

• Class “A” Technical School – 7 weeks in Meridian, MS. Learn personnel administration, forms, and procedures.
• Basic Enlisted Submarine School – 9 weeks in Groton, CT. Learn submarine systems and operations. (Only required for Yeoman Submarines.)

Training Breakdown

Once training is complete:

Yeoman – Submarines (YNSs) typically begin with a sea tour aboard a Fast Attack or Ballistic Missile submarine.

Advanced Training & Career Growth

• Promotion opportunities are regular but competitive—based on performance.
• Additional training is available later in a Yeoman’s career.
• Officer roles may be possible for those with leadership aspirations and a college degree.

Submarine Duty & Pay

• Submarine duty is voluntary. Applicants must sign the Submarine Volunteer Statement of Understanding.
• Submarine pay: $75 to $600 per month (begins at Basic Enlisted Submarine School).

Yeomen are part of an elite, highly trained community. Their role is essential to Navy operations, on land and below the surface.

Service & Advancement

• Enlistment starts at E-1 (Seaman Recruit). Advancement to E-2, E-3, and E-4 requires meeting time-in-rate and performance standards.
• Top graduates from training may qualify for accelerated advancement to E-4 (Petty Officer Third Class) by extending their enlistment to six years.
• Advancement to E-4 in this rating is historically higher than most other Navy jobs.

Post-Service Opportunities

The skills and training gained as a Yeoman translate well into civilian careers such as:

• Executive Assistant
• Legal Assistant
• Human Resources Specialist

Qualifications and Eligibility

Requirements for YNS (Submarine Yeoman)

To qualify as a Yeoman – Submarines (YNS), you must:

• Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Be a U.S. citizen and eligible for security clearance.
• Possess strong writing and oral communication skills.
• Have record-keeping skills and attention to detail.
• Be able to perform repetitive tasks accurately.
• Pass a typing test during training.
• Be resourceful, curious, and people-oriented.
• Must volunteer for submarine duty.

Commitment & Testing

• Active duty obligation: 4 years
• ASVAB score requirement:
  • AR + MK + EI + GS = 200 or
  • OR VE + AR + MK + MC = 200

The enlistment qualification requirements above are current as of Fiscal Year 2026, per the Navy Personnel Command.

More Information

If you wish to learn more about becoming a Yeoman – Submarines (YNS), contact your local Navy Enlisted Recruiter. They will provide you with more detailed information you’re unlikely to find online.

If you wish to review the requirements for the regular non-submarine Yeoman job, see this article: Yeoman (YN)

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

• Sonar Technician Submarines (STS)
• Culinary Specialist – Submarines (CSS)