Machinery Repairman

Overview

A Navy Machinery Repairman (MR) operates machinists’ tools and uses Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machines, including lathes, milling machines, and drill presses, to manufacture replacement parts for engines, propulsion systems, and other shipboard needs for Navy ships, submarines, and aircraft.

Originally established in 1948, the Machinery Repairman rating merged Outside Machinist and Shop Machinist subsets.
Related Article – Navy Jobs List: A List Of All 71 Ratings In The Navy

• Engraving, flame spraying, and electroplating operations.
• Prepare specifications to produce replacement parts.
• Produce replacement parts from specifications and sketches using CNC machinery.
• Repair auxiliary machinery on vessels.
• Operate machine shop equipment including boring mills, power hacksaws, bench grinders, lathes, drill presses, shapers, and milling machines.

To serve as a Machinery Repairman (MR) in the United States Navy, the following requirements apply:

• Must be between the ages of 18 and 41.
• Normal hearing is required.
• No history of drug abuse.
• Vision correctible to 20/20.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must volunteer for duty onboard submarines.

ASVAB minimum scores to qualify as a Navy Machinery Repairman are:

• VE+AR+MK+AS ≥ 205
• VE+AR+MK+MC ≥ 205, OR
• AS+MK+AO ≥ 148

Unlike most Navy Rates, US citizenship is not required to become an MR.

All Navy enlisted personnel complete 10 weeks of Navy Recruit Training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes. After Boot Camp, MRs attend Engineering Common Core and A School at Great Lakes, Illinois. Together, these courses are 18 weeks long and introduce technical documentation and basic mechanical theory. Trainees become familiar with shop tools, equipment, machines, and methods used in the MR rating.

An MR is the Navy’s skilled machine tool operator. Duties include repairing or overhauling shipboard auxiliary systems and engines and producing custom replacement parts. MRs also work on deck equipment such as hoists, condensers, winches, and heat exchange devices.

• Produce replacement parts from specifications and sketches using CNC machinery.
• Engraving, flame spraying, and electroplating operations.
• Operate machine shop equipment including lathes, drill presses, milling machines, shapers, and more.

A Machinery Repairman spends about 50 percent of time on shore duty and 50 percent with the fleet. Typical tours include several months on sea and shore assignments.

Pay depends on rank and length of service. In addition, MRs may receive Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS), sea pay, and other incentives. Selective Re-enlistment Bonuses (SRB) have been available for MRs.

Former MRs have opportunities in civilian roles such as:

• Engine and Machine Assemblers
• Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders
• Machinists
• Plating and Coating Machine Operators
• Plastic and Metal CNC Machine Tool Operators
• Industrial Machinery Mechanics
• Tool and Die Makers
• Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics
• Machinery Maintenance Workers

The Navy COOL program provides additional career links and opportunities for certifications and licenses, and programs like USMAP support civilian apprenticeship requirements.

If you have manual dexterity, patience, and math skills, consider the MR rating for the opportunity to serve, gain technical skills, and pursue steady employment after service.