Aerographer's mates are the Navy's meteorological and oceanographic experts, trained in the science of meteorology and physical oceanography. They also learn to use instruments that monitor weather characteristics such as air pressure, temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction. They then distribute this data to aircraft, ships and shore activities.
The duties performed by AGs include:
- collecting, recording and analyzing weather and oceanographic information;
- preparing up-to-date weather maps and oceanographic data;
- issuing weather forecasts and warnings;
- conducting weather/oceanographic briefings;
- using, testing, calibrating and performing minor and preventive maintenance on meteorological instruments including satellite receivers;
- preparing balloon-carried instruments for flight, evaluating and analyzing data received;
- operating, programming and maintaining computers and related equipment.
Working Environment
Men and women in the AG rating perform their duties in clean, comfortable office-like environments. Their work is usually mental, is done closely with others and requires little supervision.
A-School (Job School) Information
Keesler AFB (Biloxi), MS -- 86 calendar days
ASVAB Score Requirement: VE + MK + GS = 162
Security Clearance Requirement: Secret
Other Requirements
Sub-Specialties Available for This Rating: Navy Enlisted Classification Codes for AG
Current Manning Levels for This Rating: CREO Listing
Note: Advancement ( promotion ) opportunity and career progression are directly linked to a rating's manning level (i.e., personnel in undermanned ratings have greater promotion opportunity than those in overmanned ratings).
Sea/Shore Rotation for This Rating
- First Sea Tour: 36 months
- First Shore Tour: 60 months
- Second Sea Tour: 36 months
- Second Shore Tour: 60 months
- Third Sea Tour: 36 months
- Third Shore Tour: 60 months
- Fourth Sea Tour: 36 months
- Forth Shore Tour: 60 months
Note: Sea tours and shore tours for sailors that have completed four sea tours will be 36 months at sea followed by 36 months ashore until retirement.
AG is classified as an INUS/OUTUS (in the U.S./Outside the U.S.) community, which means that instead of being assigned to ships, many of their overseas assignments are classified as sea tour duty for sea/show flow purposes. Aerographer's Mates are assigned as weather observers following completion of their initial training. An observer tour is required prior to attending Forecaster "C - School" (advanced training). Upon completion of Forecaster "C -School," follow on assignments as an AG will be for Forecaster Billets. Sailors in the AG community can expect to serve more than half their careers in operational support tours ashore.
Much of the above information courtesy of the Navy Personnel Command
Aerographer's Mate:
The Navy has its own weather forecasters, AGs, who are trained in meteorology and the use of aerological instruments that monitor such weather characteristics as air pressure, temperature, humidity, wind speed, and wind direction. They prepare weather maps and forecasts, analyze atmospheric conditions to determine the best flight levels for aircraft, and measure wind and air density to increase the accuracy of antiaircraft firing, shore bombardment, and delivery of weapons by aircraft
Degree Roadmap
