A warrant officer in the U.S. Navy is a technical specialist who directs activities that are essential to the proper operation of a ship. They are senior to all enlisted chief petty officers and junior to all ensigns. Warrant officers serve in 30 specialties covering five categories. They are highly trained experts in the armed services. Their specialty is achieved through technical experience. To become a warrant officer in the U.S. Navy, you must: Be an enlisted Navy person with the rank of chief petty officer or above Have completed at least 12 years of naval service The starting pay for a Chief Warrant Officer 4 is $5,012.40 per month. With raises for experience, the maximum base pay is $9,336.30 per month. Warrant officers can be part of the: Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard.