In general, the engineering department ratings require (1) an aptitude for mechanical knowledge, (2) a degree of skill in mathematics and physics, and (3) some experience in repair work. A knowledge of mechanical drawing is also desirable. Training manuals (TRAMANs) and nonresident training courses (NRTCs) covering many aspects of basic engineering are available to help you.

Schools for engineering ratings are available to those who qualify. You can find a list of all schools and their requirements in the Catalog of Navy Training Courses (CANTRAC), NAVEDTRA 10500.

In this section we will describe the titles and jobs of the various engineering ratings. The engineering ratings are classified into two occupational fields-marine engineering and ship maintenance.

MARINE ENGINEERING OCCUPATIONAL FIELD

The marine engineering occupational field includes the Machinist's Mate, Engineman, Boiler Technician, Electrician's Mate, Interior Communications Electrician, Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Electrical), and Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Mechanical) ratings. In the

following paragraphs we will describe these ratings:

Machinist's Mate (MM)

MACHINIST'S MATES operate and maintain ship propulsion machinery, reduction gears, condensers, and air ejectors. They are also responsible for miscellaneous auxiliary equipment. This includes pumps, air compressors, turbine-driven generators, distilling units, valves, oil purifiers, oil and water heaters, governors, air-conditioners, refrigeration, propeller shafts, potable water systems, and ship's steering and various other hydraulic systems.

Engineman (EN)

ENGINEMEN work primarily with reciprocating engines (diesel and gasoline). They operate, maintain, and repair diesel propulsion plants and diesel engines used for ship's service generators, and supporting auxiliary equipment. Such equipment includes refrigeration and airconditioning systems, pumps, air compressors, auxiliary boilers, distillers, and various kinds of hydraulic equipment.

Boiler Technician (BT)

BOILER TECHNICIANS operate, maintain, test, and repair marine boilers, heat exchangers, pumps, and forced draft blowers. They also transfer, test, and take soundings and inventory of fuel and feedwater tanks.

Electrician's Mate (EM)

ELECTRICIAN'S MATES stand watch on generators and switchboards. They maintain and repair power and lighting circuits, electrical fixtures, motors, generators, distribution switchboards, and other electrical equipment. They test for grounds, or other casualties, and repair or rebuild electrical equipment in the electrical shop. They also maintain motion-picture equipment aboard ship.

Interior Communications Electrician (IC)

INTERIOR COMMUNICATIONS ELECTRICIANS operate, maintain, and repair IC systems. These systems include gyrocompass, voice interior communications, alarm, warning, ship's control, entertainment, and plotting. They also stand watches on related equipment.

Gas Turbine Systems Technician (GS)

The GAS TURBINE SYSTEMS TECHNICIAN rating is divided into two groups: the Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Electrical) (GSE) and the Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Mechanical) (GSM).

The GSEs operate, repair, and perform preventive and corrective maintenance on the electrical components of gas turbine engines, main propulsion machinery, auxiliary equipment, propulsion control systems, electrical and electronic circuitry in the engineering spaces, and alarm and warning circuits.

The GSMs operate, repair, and perform preventive and corrective maintenance on

mechanical components of gas turbine engines, main propulsion machinery (gears, shafts, and controllable pitch propellers), auxiliary equipment in the engineering spaces, and propulsion control systems.