This was truly the worst experience of my life; I would recommend exhausting every other possible option before joining - Standard Issued Enlisted Sailor US Navy Employee Review

1.0
Feb 6, 2014
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

-Pay. After four years of active duty my pay was competitive to my civilian counterparts.

Cons

-Working hours. Once to twice a week while in port I worked 24 hour shifts, this is also known as "standing duty". -Food. It was well below my standards most of the time. I usually just ate at McDonalds or waited until I got home to eat. -Leadership. I was constantly berated and harassed by my immediate supervisors, and senior "leadership" officials. This is standard across the navy. Most people think that because this is how things were when they were more junior that its right; but we all know, it’s not. -Underways. This is when your ship leaves homeport in between deployments. (Note: deployments last 7 to 13 months) These usually dont last longer than a week, my personal longest was over 2 months. I could go on however, if you're interested in knowing more just ask anyone who has been on a ship. I'm not angry or ranting, I just want people to know the truth.

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5.0
Jun 24, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Opportunities to travel and see the world

Cons

Not everyone can manage the environments

5.0
Jun 3, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

It is what you make out of it. You'll have good days and bad days. It's all dependent on your leadership. That can make or break the command. Medical is free, but can take a while to get seen. You'll meet a lot of new people and could travel around the world depending on your duty station. Education benefits and training.

Cons

Medical can take a while to get seen, unless it's an emergency. If you're single, the pay isn't that great, but you don't have to much to worry about for bills if you live on base. If you're on sea duty billet, your work life balance will be terrible.

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