Mass Communication Specialist (MC) — U.S. Navy (Enlisted)

Source: https://www.navy.com/careers-benefits/careers/arts-communications/mass-communication-specialist

Career Field: Arts & Communications Service: U.S. Navy Role Type: Enlisted (Active Duty or Navy Reserve opportunities) Work Location: Worldwide (shipboard, overseas, stateside commands)

Role Summary

As a Mass Communication Specialist (MC), it’s your job to tell the Navy’s story. You’ll use creativity to educate and inform the public about the achievements of Sailors in America’s Navy. Travel the world, document military operations and develop high-profile media campaigns.

From photography and journalism to graphic design and videography, Navy MCs can do it all. The Navy is looking for Sailors with talent, originality, and who aren’t afraid to think outside the box.

Responsibilities

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop print publications and multimedia content including video, still images, digital graphics, web products, news and feature stories, blogs and press releases
• Operate and maintain state-of-the-art photography and video equipment
• Conduct research and identify target audiences, analyze data and provide feedback to leadership
• Identify communication issues and develop solutions based on research
• Work directly with local news media organizations to release stories and develop public relations campaigns
• Conduct ship and base tours for high-profile individuals and foreign dignitaries
• Assist and work within oversight of Public Affairs Officers

Senior MC Responsibilities

• Advise and prepare unit commanders for media interaction and press conferences
• Develop content strategies and create data stories
• Speak to the press on behalf of the command

Work Environment

As an MC, you’ll explore nearly every part of the Navy. You could be:

• Overseas on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier
• In the field with a combat construction unit
• In an air-conditioned broadcast station at a stateside command

While there may be some physical work on a ship or in a station, the majority of the job is mentally and creatively focused. You’ll also need to be comfortable working independently or with a small team and with little supervision.

Training & Advancement

After initial training at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes (Boot Camp), you’ll report to Fort George G. Meade, MD to attend “A” School. You’ll learn the basics of:

• Still photography
• Digital imaging
• Videography
• Photojournalism
• News writing
• Public affairs
• Layout and design

Advanced Training (Eligibility-Based)

You may also be eligible to receive advanced training in:

• Digital Multimedia
• Intermediate Motion Media
• Intermediate Public Affairs
• Intermediate Photojournalism

Promotion opportunity is available, but competitive and based on performance.

This is an enlisted rate and not available for an officer in the Navy. If you have a four-year degree, you may be eligible to be a Public Affairs Officer.

Post-Service Opportunities

Serving as a Mass Communication Specialist can open doors in the media world. Your experience can help you develop knowledge of:

• Photography and videography (including aerial and underwater)
• Writing
• Graphic design and layout
• Social media and web content
• Broadcasting (TV, radio and online)
• Animation and interactive multimedia
• Operating and maintaining audiovisual and printing equipment
• Coordinating with and escorting media
• Research (surveys and data collection)

These skills can apply directly to civilian careers such as: photographer, photojournalist, reporter, camera operator, graphic designer, multimedia artist, animator, and more.

Education Opportunities

Navy training in mass communication can translate to credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education.

For qualified applicants, you may be eligible to apply and be selected for a Motion Media or Photojournalism Masters Program at the Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.

You may also continue your education through:

• Navy College Program
• Tuition Assistance
• Post-9/11 GI Bill

Qualifications & Requirements

• High school diploma (or equivalent) required to become an Enlisted Sailor
• Must have normal color perception
• Vision correctable to 20/20
• Must meet eligibility requirements for a security clearance
• Strong fit if you have:
  • Above-average writing and speaking skills
  • Interest in learning about people and new ideas
  • Detail orientation
  • Creativity

General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you’re currently serving, have served before, or have never served before.

Part-Time Opportunities (Navy Reserve)

Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties are carried out during scheduled drilling and training periods:

• During monthly drilling, Navy Reserve MCs typically work at a location close to their homes
• For Annual Training, MCs may serve anywhere in the world (ship at sea, bases and installations on shore)

Most Navy Reserve work is considered training. The basic commitment involves:

• Minimum one weekend a month (drilling)
• Two weeks a year (Annual Training) — or equivalent

Initial Training Requirements (Reserve)

• For current or former military Enlisted servicemembers: prior experience satisfies initial Recruit Training requirement (no Boot Camp again)
• For those without prior military experience: you must attend Boot Camp in Great Lakes, IL, which counts as your first Annual Training

Ready to Start?

Apply Now to begin your journey as a Mass Communication Specialist in the U.S. Navy.