The DC Rating
In 1948, the Damage Controlman rating was established as a result of the consolidation of the Specialist (F) (Fire Fighters), Carpenter's Mate, Carpenter's Mate (SR) (Joiners), Carpenter's Mate (SR) (Builders), and Painter ratings.
DC's do the work necessary for damage control, ship stability, firefighting, fire prevention, and chemical, biological and radiological (CBR) warfare defense. They also instruct personnel in the methods of damage control and CBR defense, and repair damage control equipment and systems.
Damage Controlman (DC)
The duties performed by DCs include operating, repairing and maintaining installed firefighting systems and equipment, damage control equipment, and chemical, biological and radiological defense equipment. They train shipboard personnel in the operation, maintenance and repair of damage control systems and equipment, life saving devices, and various firefighting methods.
Damage Controlmen perform emergency repairs to decks, structures and hulls by emergency pipe patching, plugging, and shoring. They perform maintenance and repair of watertight closures and assorted fittings, and perform emergency repairs to piping fittings and fixtures.
DCs act as the ship's Fire Marshal and fire fighting leaders, and they train the ship's company in chemical, biological and radiological defense.
Qualifications, Interests, and Working Environment
An important qualification for people interested in the DC rating is the ability to use portable tools, equipment and machines. They also need good vision and normal color perception, manual dexterity, a good memory and resourcefulness. The ability to do detailed work and to work successfully in a team operation is essential. They should feel comfortable in front of small groups. Prior experience in leading others is a valuable asset. Writing, speaking and arithmetic skills, curiosity, physical strength, the ability to keep records and do repetitive tasks is also helpful. Normal color perception is required.
Damage Controlmen work in a variety of climates at sea and ashore. They normally perform their work at sea in a controlled climate, but are often called upon, to work in machinery spaces and flight decks in various sea states and weather conditions.
DC's may work in noisy environments on machinery spaces and flight decks in various sea states and weather conditions. People in this rating work closely with others, usually supervise and teach others and often do physical work. DC ASVAB Test requirements.
Credit Recommendations
The American Council on Education recommends that semester hour credits in the associate/bachelor degree programs and vocational certificate categories for courses completed.