Life at sea isn’t just about the mission—it’s also about keeping morale high. As a Retail Services Specialist (RS), you’ll be the go-to person for the comforts of home that make Navy life better. From running the ship’s store to offering laundry, barbershop, or even coffee bar services, your role directly impacts Sailor happiness and quality of life on board. Simply put—you’ll be one of the most popular people on the ship.

What You’ll Do

• Manage and operate shipboard retail and service facilities (stores, vending, coffee shops, etc.)
• Provide personal services such as laundry, tailoring, and barbering
• Handle inventory, cash, and financial records
• Learn customer service and business management skills
• Keep morale high by bringing convenience and comfort to life at sea

Pay & Benefits

From the day you join, you’ll receive:

• Competitive salary with potential enlistment bonus
• Free health insurance and housing
• Paid vacation and retirement plan
• Paid training in retail, finance, and customer service
• College credits for your service and training

Education Opportunities

• Tuition Assistance & Navy College Program
• Post-9/11 GI Bill (up to 100% tuition)
• Professional certifications in retail and customer service
• College credits toward a bachelor’s or associate degree

Qualifications

• U.S. citizen or equivalent
• High school diploma or GED
• 17 years or older
• Strong people skills and attention to detail

Work Environment

As an RS, you’ll work wherever Sailors need support—on ships at sea, shore-based facilities, and overseas commands. Your day-to-day will combine customer service, business operations, and hands-on services that make Navy life more comfortable and enjoyable.

Part-Time Opportunities

Want to serve while staying closer to home? As a Navy Reserve RS, you’ll train part-time—typically one weekend a month and two weeks a year—while enjoying many of the same Navy benefits.

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.