Special Operations Crewman

To be eligible to enlist in the U.S. Navy, candidates must be between the ages of 18-34

From shallow rivers to distant shores, the United States depends on an elite defense force known as Special Warfare Combatant-Craft Crewmen, or SWCC. You may have never heard of them, and that’s on purpose—their missions are the kind the Navy keeps quiet because of how vitally important they are. As the Sailors who insert and extract Navy SEALs from classified locations around the world, they are true warriors—highly trained, disciplined and distinguished. Their motto is “On Time, On Target, Never Quit,” and they live up to every word.

RESPONSIBILITIES

SWCC are extensively trained to execute high-risk warfare and reconnaissance missions in river and coastline settings. As a member of this tightly-knit community, you may:

• Insert and extract SEALs and other Special Operations personnel from a variety of Naval Surface Warfare vessels
• Collect important data about enemy military installations and shipping traffic in coastal areas
• Assist other military and civilian law enforcement agencies
• Operate and maintain ordnance systems, communications, electronics, small boats and other equipment associated with SWCC and other special operations missions
• Perform direct action raids against enemy shipping and waterborne traffic
• Provide rapid mobility in shallow water areas where larger ships cannot operate
• Integrate with other U.S. Special Operations forces or within U.S. Navy carrier and expeditionary strike groups to accomplish operational tasks

WORK ENVIRONMENT

SWCC operators may be deployed anywhere in the world and operate day or night in cold weather, desert, tropical or jungle environments. Many operations will take place along river or coastline settings. Though much of your time will be spent training or in the field on missions, you may work in an office on administration duties from time to time.

TRAINING AND ADVANCEMENT

As a SWCC operator, you will undergo some of the most demanding physical and mental training in the world. While qualifying for SWCC in the Delayed Entry Program is preferred, you may also volunteer any time during your enlistment after completing boot camp and prior to your 31st birthday.

While at the 10-week Recruit Training Command (RTC), also known as Boot Camp, you will take part in a rigorous physical examination and medical screening. Upon review of your entrance medical examinations, further physical screening tests will be given at RTC. Following completion of boot camp, you will begin specialized training, including:

Naval Special Warfare Orientation (7 weeks) in Coronado, CA, for physical and psychological preparation for SWCC Assessment and Selection.

Basic Crewman Selection (BCS) (7 weeks) in Coronado, CA, for physical training and aquatic skills. 

Basic Crewmen Training (BCT) (7 weeks) in Coronado, CA, for training in basic seamanship, boat handling, teamwork and mental tenacity.

Crewman Qualification Training (CQT) (10 weeks) in Coronado, CA, for advanced tactical knowledge and warfare skills training.

Get the full details on SWCC training.

Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance.

Post-Service Opportunities

It’s also important to note that specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields.

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

Members of the Naval Special Warfare community have any number of unique opportunities to advance their education. Navy training provides everything from the fundamentals of explosive ordnance disposal, to knowledge of chemical and biological warfare, military tactics, deep-sea diving or a number of other tactical military procedures.

Beyond offering access to professional credentials and certifications, Navy training in the NSW field can translate to credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education.

You may also continue your education through undergraduate degree opportunities like the Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance and the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

A high school degree or equivalent is required to become an Enlisted Navy SWCC operator, but the standards of qualification require the kind of mental and physical fortitude that few possess. For those making the cut, immense challenges and constant training are a way of life.

To qualify for SWCC training, you must:

• Meet specific eyesight requirements: 20/40 best eye; 20/70 worst eye; correctable to 20/25 with no color blindness
• Meet the minimum Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) score: AR+VE=103, MC=51
• Be 30 years of age or younger
• Be a U.S. citizen and eligible for security clearance

SWCCs should possess an aptitude for mechanical skills, study habits, arithmetic and basic algebra, and have good use of your hands.

You should be in excellent physical condition and motivated to endure rigorous physiological demands. Strong swimming skills and the ability to withstand fatigue is essential. SWCCs must be able to work under stressful and hazardous conditions. Important personal traits also include self-assurance and self-confidence, and the willingness to follow orders.

Visit the Navy SWCC PST Calculator to review the current minimum Navy Physical Screening Test (PST) requirements for Navy Challenge Programs.

General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you’re currently serving, whether you’ve served before or whether you’ve never served before.

PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

There are no part-time jobs as a Navy Reserve Sailor in this role. Go back to Careers to find other jobs that have a Reserve component. You can also find out more about what life is like as a Reserve Sailor in the Navy.

Required qualifications:

• 18 years or older
• Legally authorized to work in the United States
• At least high school diploma or equivalent or higher