A Navy aircraft carrier can hold over a million gallons of fuel, or the approximate equivalent of 2 Olympic swimming pools. As an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate – Fuel, better known as a “Grape,” you’ll ensure that high-quality fuel is distributed to every part of the ship—from refining fuel below deck to gassing up the jets on the flight deck. Your job keeps our aircraft in the sky and the Navy’s engines running no matter the mission.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Fuel (ABF) Sailors are responsible for preparing and fueling Navy planes prior to launch and after landing, as well as pumping fuel to all areas of the ship. Specifically, your responsibilities as an ABF may include:

• Fueling aircraft and operating and maintaining aviation fueling and lubricating oil systems
• Enforcing safety and handling precautions
• Refining fuel for quality
• Supervising fuel farms and fueling equipment
• Training and directing firefighting crews, fire rescue teams and damage control parties assigned to fuel and lubricating oil spaces
• Operating purging and protective systems aboard ships

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Most of the work in this rating is performed outdoors on the aircraft carrier flight deck, in all climates and conditions. The work is fast-paced, and ABFs typically work closely with others in aviation ratings. You will not spend your entire career at sea; you may also work with an aircraft squadron during a shore duty rotation.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

• U.S. citizen or equivalent
• High school graduate or equivalent
• 17 years of age or older

PAY AND BENEFITS

From the day you start, you’ll receive:

• Competitive salary
• Potential to earn a bonus upon enlistment
• Free health insurance
• Free housing
• A retirement plan
• Paid training

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

• Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance
• Post-9/11 GI Bill, up to 100% tuition
• Professional credentials and certifications
• College credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education

PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

• Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Aviation Boatswain’s Mates in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes.
• For annual training, you may serve anywhere in the world, including locations in the U.S., at bases overseas, or in areas where humanitarian needs are great.

America’s Navy is approximately 450,000 Sailors, 300 ships and submarines, and 3,700 aircraft strong. Water and salt flow through our veins in the same proportion as the sea. That mighty force is the lifeblood of the greatest Navy ever to sail unstoppably upon it, slip stealthily beneath it or fly unchallenged above it. And we defend with honor, courage, and commitment every hour of every day. We are America’s Navy. We are forged by the sea.